US civil rights leader Jesse Jackson dies aged 84
US civil rights leader Jesse Jackson dies aged 84
Jesse Jackson, a prominent US civil rights advocate, passed away at the age of 84 on Tuesday morning while surrounded by loved ones, as shared by his family in a statement. The announcement described his passing as “peaceful,” with his wife and children offering heartfelt remembrances of his life and work.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Civil Rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Honorable Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr,” his family declared, highlighting his lifelong dedication to justice and equality.
The cause of death has not yet been disclosed, though Jackson had been living with progressive supranuclear palsy. He was hospitalized late last year, with his condition initially thought to be Parkinson’s Disease before being revised in April 2025. Medical experts note that PSP often mimics Parkinson’s symptoms, leading to misdiagnoses.
Obama, the first African American president, praised Jackson’s influence in shaping modern political movements. “His two historic runs for president” were instrumental in advancing the cause of civil rights and social justice, Obama said. The former president also recalled how his wife, Michelle, first encountered political organizing through the Jackson family’s efforts.
“For over six decades, Reverend Jackson championed human dignity and created pathways for millions to achieve a better life,” the Obamas reflected. “From grassroots campaigns to global advocacy, he remained steadfast in his belief that all people deserve respect and freedom.”
As a key figure in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, Jackson played a vital role in the civil rights movement, standing alongside Martin Luther King Jr during his final years. His activism later expanded into building a coalition that united America’s diverse communities under a shared vision of equality.
Jackson’s son, Jesse Jackson Jr, served as a US congressman before his father’s passing. Following the news, politicians and public figures took to social media to honor his legacy. Former President Donald Trump remarked on his personal connection to Jackson, calling him “a good man” and noting his “grittiness and street smarts.”
“He was very gregarious—Someone who truly loved people!” Trump stated, reflecting on Jackson’s character and impact.
Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, a former secretary of state, also expressed their long-standing friendship with Jackson, spanning nearly fifty years. “Reverend Jackson was a beacon for the voiceless,” they said, underscoring his role in advancing opportunities for others.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described Jackson as “a legendary voice for the voiceless,” emphasizing his enduring influence on the fight for liberty and justice. Similarly, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani praised his relentless pursuit of America’s promise, recalling his commitment to organizing and advocating for change.
“He marched, he ran, he organized and he preached justice without apology,” Mamdani added, capturing the essence of Jackson’s lifelong activism.
