‘May we all strive to continue his mission’ | Carolinas leaders react to Rev. Jesse Jackson’s death

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, the Baptist minister, longtime civil rights leader and Black icon, has died. He was 84. 

His daughter, Santita Jackson, confirmed to the Associated Press that her father died Tuesday, at home, surrounded by family.

Jackson had recently been diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder after being misdiagnosed for over a decade. He was hospitalized last year for complications related to the condition. 

Jackson has been a powerful advocate for civil rights and a strong voice in American politics for decades.

A protégé of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., he broke with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1971 to form Operation PUSH, initially named People United to Save Humanity, on Chicago’s South Side. The organization was later renamed the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. The group’s mission ranges from promoting minority hiring in the corporate world to voter registration drives in communities of color.

Leaders from across North Carolina and South Carolina have issued statements honoring Jackson’s life and lasting legacy. 

“Civil rights icon Rev. Jesse Jackson found a home at North Carolina A&T, where he launched his prolific career working to change this country for the better. To honor his life, let’s continue his work for justice and equality. May his memory be a blessing.”

“A native son of South Carolina, and an icon of the civil rights movement, the Reverend Jesse Jackson was a prominent voice in our nation’s political and cultural dialogue. Peggy and I are saddened to learn of his passing.  At the appropriate time, I will direct the flags over the Capitol to be lowered to honor his legacy and memory.”

“Today, I join the nation in mourning the passing of one of the most quintessential civil rights leaders – Reverend Jesse Jackson.

“Our relationship began as students at rival high schools in South Carolina and continued at rival HBCUs in the South – he at North Carolina A&T State University and me at South Carolina State University. These rivalries forged a friendship that remain constant and mutually beneficial. His mother helped me launch my political career back in the 1970s and our children have carried our family and political relationships into a third generation.

“A native of Greenville, South Carolina, Reverend Jackson began his activism in the summer of 1960 as a student seeking to desegregate the local public library in Greenville and then as leader in the sit-in movement. He grew to become one of the founders of the momentous Rainbow PUSH Coalition – an intergenerational movement to uplift the “the voiceless and downtrodden.” His passion to bring together all creeds is a testament to his vision of unity, oneness, and a nation under one accord.

“His historic presidential runs in 1984 and 1988 reflect his strong will, guiding faith, and motivation that anything is possible. A life lived defying odds, Reverend Jackson showed us that if we all work together – we can bend the arc of the moral universe and change history. Operation Breadbasket, anti-apartheid activism, voter registration, and corporate diversity were among just a few of his initiatives that advanced opportunity and equality for Black Americans.

“It should not be lost on any of us the impact that Reverend Jackson has had on the nation, Black Americans, and movements to encourage civic participation around the world. His vision is his legacy, and his teachings continue to inspire me as I continue the pursuit of justice and equality.

“My prayers are with Reverend Jackson’s family and loved ones. The impact of his enduring legacy will resonate for years to come. May he take his rightful place among those who have shaped this nation’s course and pushed us to a more perfect union.”

“I am sorry to hear of the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson, a native of South Carolina. He was a larger-than-life figure who passionately pushed for his causes, always striving to make America live up to its potential. He led a long and consequential life, and he will be missed by his family and friends.”

“Jesse Jackson dedicated his life to breaking down racial barriers, bringing hope and building an America where everyone has an opportunity to succeed. May he rest in peace and may we all strive to continue his mission.”

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