Civil rights leader and Rainbow PUSH Coalition founder Rev. Jesse Jackson died on Tuesday. He was 84. People from across the world are paying tribute to the man who championed the words “Keep hope alive!”
Jackson was a global humanitarian, a two-time presidential candidate, and part of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s inner circle. The ordained Baptist minister and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient dedicated his life to serving others. Throughout his career of service, spanning more than 60 years, he fought for freedom and democracy. He worked vigorously advocating for civil and human rights, voting rights, and economic equality.
In a statement, Jackson’s family described him as a “tireless change agent” whose commitment to justice and equality helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity.
On Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” program host Rose Scott talked with Gerald Griggs, a civil rights attorney and the immediate past president of the Georgia NAACP. Griggs talked with Scott about Jackson’s life and legacy. He also shared memories of meeting Jackson for the first time and shared what Jackson’s mentorship meant.
He also emphasized the ongoing mission to advance civil rights today. Following that conversation, Scott revisits her 2018 conversation with Rev. Jackson from WABE’s ATL68 series. During the conversation, Jackson spoke about his friendship and work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He also discussed carrying the torch of freedom and justice after King’s assassination.
