Civil Rights Leader Rev. Jesse Jackson Dies at 84

Rev. Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader and two-time Democratic presidential candidate, died at his Chicago home on February 17, 2026, at the age of 84. His family confirmed his passing, stating he was surrounded by loved ones.

Jackson, a protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., emerged as a leading figure in the civil rights movement following King's assassination. He founded Operation PUSH and the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, organizations dedicated to advocating for social justice and economic empowerment. Jackson's presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 broke new ground for African American political leadership, inspiring future generations.

In recent years, Jackson faced health challenges, including a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease in 2017 and progressive supranuclear palsy in 2025. Despite these conditions, he remained active in public life, participating in protests and advocating for justice.

"Our father was a servant leader—not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world," the Jackson family said in a statement. "We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family."

Jackson is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, and their children: Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, Jacqueline, and Ashley. His legacy as a tireless advocate for equality and human rights endures.