Civil rights activist, Jesse Jackson, dies at 84
African-American civil rights icon and Baptist minister, Jesse Louis Jackson has died aged 84.
A statement by his family indicated that Mr Jackson died on Tuesday, leaving behind a globally recognised legacy.
“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,” Mr Jackson’s family stated.
“He died peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by his family,” the statement noted.
Paying tribute to his legacy, the family described Mr Jackson as an agent of change, who committed himself to justice and human rights activism.
The family stated, “His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity.
“A tireless change agent, he elevated the voices of the voiceless from his Presidential campaigns in the 1980s to mobilising millions to register to vote, leaving an indelible mark on history.”
The family urged the public to honour the deceased civil rights activist “by continuing the fight for the values he lived.”
“We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by,” it said.
Born on October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina and an ally of the late civil rights activist, Martin Luther King Jr.
He was widely regarded for his role towards increasing consciousness and participation of African-Americans in the country’s politics.
Earlier diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2017, Mr Jackson suffered progressive supranuclear palsy, a neurological disorder, last November.
During his lifetime, Mr Jackson, a Democrat, attempted the U.S. presidency twice, in 1984 and 1988, but fell short of being the party flag bearer.
He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
States
Ebonyi Flood: Lawmaker laments destruction, donates N4 million, noodles to victims
Regina Ogudu, a widow, said her house was totally destroyed by the flood.
World
EU announces €710 million humanitarian aid package for Africa, other regions
According to the European Commission, one focus will be on protecting particularly vulnerable migrants.
States
Umahi hails Tinubu’s infrastructure projects, urges South-East support in 2027
He said no previous administration had matched Mr Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructure development in South-East.
Africa
ECOWAS climate action stalled by poor funding, political will: Parliament
The Parliament wants ECOWAS leaders to consider a regional climate resilience and human security fund.
NationWide
Navy holds route march to boost combat readiness
The exercise, conducted through Egweama communities in Brass, aimed to enhance physical endurance, promote healthy living, and maintain a physically fit force.
Sport
Nigeria’s Stallions beat Ghana, fall to Morocco in Africa rugby men’s sevens
The Stallions opened their campaign with a 26-5 victory over Ghana’s Black Eagles but suffered a 36-5 defeat to Morocco in their second match of the competition.
