The Legacy Of Jesse Jackson In Photos

Source: ROBYN BECK / Getty

R everend Jesse Jackson, a legendary civil rights activist, has recently stepped down from his presidential role at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of advocacy and leadership. As we reflect on his lifelong dedication to social justice, we celebrate his significant contributions to the fight for equality and empowerment. Today, we honor Rev. Jackson.

Reverend Jackson’s Journey:

Born in Greenville, South Carolina, in 1941. Jesse Jackson grew up in a racially segregated America. Inspired by the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson became actively involved in the Civil Rights Movement. He participated in sit-ins, protests, and marches, bravely challenging racial segregation and advocating for equal rights.

A Beacon of Hope:

Reverend Jackson’s passion for social justice led him to establish organizations that fought for economic empowerment and equal opportunities. Operation Breadbasket was founded in the late 1960s. It aimed to improve economic conditions within the Black community. Through negotiations with major corporations, Jackson fought for fair wages, increased job opportunities, and equality.

The Rainbow PUSH Coalition:

In 1984, Reverend Jackson founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. An organization committed to addressing a wide range of social and economic issues affecting marginalized communities. Under his leadership, the coalition became a powerful force for change, advocating for voting rights, affordable housing, quality education, and more.

Presidential Campaigns and Impact:

Reverend Jackson made history with his campaigns for the presidency in 1984 and 1988. Jesse Jackson’s groundbreaking presidential campaigns broke barriers. While he didn’t win the nomination, his influence paved the way for future African American political leaders, inspiring generations to get politically involved.

Continuing the Legacy:

As Reverend Jackson steps down from his leadership role at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Reverend Frederick Douglass Haynes III assumes the mantle. With deep respect for Jackson’s legacy, Haynes recognizes the importance of organizations like Rainbow PUSH in the ongoing fight for justice and equality. Together with the coalition, they will strive to advance civil rights, economic equality, and empower the next generation of advocates. By fearlessly challenging the status quo, Jesse Jackson paved the way for a more inclusive and representative political landscape. His campaigns inspire generations to become politically engaged, recognizing the power of their voices and the importance of advocating for justice and equality. His legacy extends far beyond politics, as his influence continues to shape social movements and grassroots activism. As he transitions into a new phase of his life, we celebrate his immense contributions as a civil rights icon.

1. Andrew Young and Jesse Jackson in the 1980s

Andrew Young and Jesse Jackson embracing and holding an award during the National Conference of Black Mayors in the 1980s.

2. In 1975 Rev. Jackson marched for jobs

CIRCA 1975: Reverend Jesse Jackson’s march for jobs — around the White House.

3. Congressman Walter E Fauntroy and Reverend Jesse Jackson

View of the front line of homeless activist Mitch Snyder’s funeral procession, near Freedom Plaza on Pennsylvania Avenue NW , Washington DC, July 10, 1990. Among those pictured are, from left, Congressman Walter E Fauntroy, Snyder’s son Dean, Reverend Jesse Jackson, musician and actress Cher, activist Carol Fennelly, and Reverend George Stallings.

4. Nelson Mandela and Jesse Jackson

Nelson Mandela, deputy Leader, African National Congress, visits London, UK for the first time since his release (February 11th 1990), Sunday 15th April 1990. Pictured with Jesse Jackson (right) U.S Politician and civil rights leader.

5. President Clinton Meets With Rev. Jesse Jackson

President Clinton Meets With Rev. Jesse Jackson (Second From Left) At The White House On Monday, May 3, 1999. Jackson And A Delegation Of Religious Leaders Met With The President And Administration To Discuss Jackson’s Mission And A Letter That Milosevic Asked The Civil Rights Leader To Give To Clinton.

6. Jesse Jackson (R), founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and Seat Pleasant Mayor Eugene Grant (L)

Jesse Jackson (R), founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and Seat Pleasant Mayor Eugene Grant (L) hold a news conference to discuss “the disparity of home foreclosures” December 13, 2007 in Fort Washington, Maryland. Jackson held the press conference outside of the home of Mark Johnson, the owner of a home in foreclosure in Prince George’s County which “ranks #1 in home foreclosures in Maryland.” jesse jackson (r),founder of the rainbow push

7. March on Washington in 2010

United Auto Workers Vice President General Holiefield, United Auto Workers President Bob King and Reverend Jesse Jackson attend March on Washington 2010 at the Lincoln Memorial on October 2, 2010 in Washington, DC.

8. Reverend Jesse Jackson marches in anti-war

Reverend Jesse Jackson marches in anti war demonstration to draw support for a national march against war the following Saturday on January 15, 1991 in Washington, D.C.

9. Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson marches with activists protesting the verdict in the Kyle Rittenhouse

Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson marches with activists protesting the verdict in the Kyle Rittenhouse trial on November 20, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. Rittenhouse, an Illinois teenager, was was found not guilty of all charges in the fatal shootings of Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and for shooting and wounding of Gaige Grosskreutz during unrest in Kenosha, Wisconsin that followed the police shooting of Jacob Blake in August 2020.

10. The opening of the first Rainbow Coalition National Convention

The Reverend Jesse Jackson and DC Mayor Marion Barry (R) grip hands over their heads at the opening of the first Rainbow Coalition national convention at the Walter E. Washington convention center in Washington DC, April 17, 1986.

11. Activist Reverend Jesse Jackson joins airport "Unions for All" movement

Activist Reverend Jesse Jackson (4-L) joins airport employees, drivers from Uber and Lyft and other southern California workers in a march to Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, California on October 2, 2019 demanding elected officials pledge their support for the “Unions for All” movement.