Feb 17 • 10:01 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

Jesse Jackson, civil rights leader, dies aged 84

Rev. Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights campaigner and former presidential candidate, has passed away at the age of 84.

The Rev Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in the civil rights movement and American politics, has died at the age of 84. Jackson's family released a statement highlighting his role as a "servant leader" not only to his own family but also to the oppressed and neglected globally, indicating his broad impact over decades. Known for his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and love, the family urged people to honor his legacy by continuing his fight for these values.

Jesse Jackson had been battling progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) over the past decade, initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and had faced significant health challenges, including two hospitalizations due to Covid-19. Jackson was a significant figure in the civil rights struggles of the 1960s and beyond, having worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and continuing to influence Democratic politics throughout his life. His candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1988 marked him as a key player in American political discourse.

Jackson’s death marks the end of an era in civil rights activism, prompting reflections on the ongoing struggles for equality and social justice. His life's work has inspired generations to advocate for the marginalized and continue the efforts to realize a more equitable society. As tributes pour in, it is clear that Jesse Jackson's legacy will influence future movements for justice and equality across the globe.

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