US Civil Rights Advocate Jesse Jackson Passes Away at 84
Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights figure and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, passed away at the age of 84 on Tuesday, according to his family. The statement shared by his loved ones described his death as occurring “peacefully” amid the presence of relatives.
The family revealed that Jackson had been diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare neurodegenerative disorder, in April 2025. This revised the earlier claim that he had been living with Parkinson’s Disease since 2015. Both conditions impact brain function, motor control, and the nervous system, often leading to initial misdiagnoses due to overlapping symptoms.
“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 stated. “His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity.”
A Legacy of Advocacy and Political Impact
Throughout his life, Jackson became a symbol of persistent activism, championing causes that united America’s diverse communities. His efforts included organizing boycotts, sit-ins, and voter registration drives, all aimed at advancing civil rights. The Obamas highlighted his role in inspiring their own political journey, noting that Jackson’s “two historic runs for president” laid the groundwork for Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.
“For more than 60 years, Reverend Jackson helped lead some of the most significant movements for change in human history,” the Obamas said. “From organizing boycotts and sit-ins, to registering millions of voters, to advocating for freedom and democracy around the world, he was relentless in his belief that we are all children of God, deserving of dignity and respect.”
Before his presidential bids in 1984 and 1988, Jackson was a key organizer in Martin Luther King Jr.’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference. He stood beside King during his final days in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1968. Over time, Jackson evolved into an elder statesman within the Democratic Party, focusing on social justice initiatives through his nonprofit organization.
Following his death, public figures expressed their condolences. Former President Donald Trump remarked on Jackson’s enduring influence, stating, “He was a good man, with lots of personality, grit, and ‘street smarts.’ He was very gregarious—Someone who truly loved people!”
Bill Clinton and Hillary Rodham Clinton, who served as secretary of state, also paid tribute, recalling their “almost fifty years” of friendship with Jackson. They emphasized his role in promoting human dignity and creating pathways for others to achieve better lives.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani echoed sentiments of admiration, calling Jackson “a legendary voice for the voiceless.” He praised the civil rights leader for his relentless advocacy, stating, “He marched, he ran, he organized and he preached justice without apology.”
Jackson’s son, Jesse Jackson Jr., who previously served as a U.S. congressman, shared in the outpouring of grief. The news of his father’s passing prompted widespread mourning, with many reflecting on his life’s work and the lasting impact of his activism.
