CHICAGO (AP) — Following a public celebration of his life, Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. Was honored with a more private memorial service Saturday at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters on the South Side of Chicago. The service, attended by approximately a few hundred family members, allies, and confidants, marked the culmination of a week of commemorations.
A Call to Continue the Work
Speakers at the homegoing service, including Jackson’s children, civil rights leaders, and presidents from African nations, emphasized that the best way to honor his legacy is to continue advocating for universal human rights and economic justice. Yusef Jackson, one of the late reverend’s sons and president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, stated, “This proves appropriate that we respect this season of grief…Even though, it is also appropriate to honor him by stepping up, to step out, and continue his work by answering his call to serve.”
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition has recently deepened partnerships with activists in Minnesota, following mass protests sparked by what was described as the largest Homeland Security operation ever launched in the state under the Trump administration.
Legacy of Equality and Diversity
U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson, an Illinois Democrat and the late reverend’s son, recalled his father’s teachings, stating, “any society that will not support the many who are poor will never be able to save the few who are rich.” He added that his father’s activism and charisma stemmed from a Christian call to service, and that Jackson “was speaking to the children on the reservations, in the barrios, in the ghettos.”
Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League, suggested that future presidential candidates should study Jackson’s “rainbow coalition” strategy. He stated, “Let the word go out that anyone who would like to be president of the United States in 2028, you’d better study this concept of the rainbow coalition.”
International Impact and Personal Reflections
The service included musical performances by Stevie Wonder, Opal Staples, Terisa Griffin, Kim Burrell, and a comedy set by Chris Tucker. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged Jackson’s role in ending South Africa’s apartheid system, noting Jackson was a close friend of Nelson Mandela. Ramaphosa stated Jackson “told the world that the struggle for dignity in the United States was inseparable from the fight against apartheid and injustice in South Africa.”
Felix Tshisekedi, president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, praised Jackson as a peacemaker and humanitarian, saying, “Your mourning is also ours…The world has lost a pastor, a champion, a mender of bridges. Africa has lost a faithful, loving son.”
Looking Ahead
Members of the Jackson family and supporters are expected to travel to Selma, Alabama, on Sunday to commemorate the “Bloody Sunday” protest marches. Jackson frequently attended this anniversary march, and organizers say Selma represents the core principles of the civil rights movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Saturday’s service?
The service at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters was a private memorial service for Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., attended by family, allies, and confidants, serving as a capstone to a week of commemorations.
What did speakers at the service emphasize?
Speakers emphasized that the best way to honor Jackson’s legacy is to continue his advocacy for universal human rights and economic justice.
What is the significance of the upcoming trip to Selma, Alabama?
The trip to Selma, Alabama, is to commemorate the “Bloody Sunday” protest marches, an event Jackson often attended, and represents the core principles of the civil rights movement.
As Rev. Jackson’s family and allies move forward, how will they ensure his message of equality and justice continues to resonate with future generations?
