The recent passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson at the age of 84 on February 17, 2026, signifies not only the end of a significant chapter in the civil rights movement but also encourages a reassessment of troubling episodes in American history where his advocacy was pivotal. One standout moment for younger audiences has been its depiction in the Netflix series 'Dahmer,' which showcases Jackson's presence in a turbulent Milwaukee. As depicted in both the show and reality, he lamented the crimes of Jeffrey Dahmer, emphasizing a distressing truth: Dahmer's heinous acts were allowed to persist for thirteen years due in large part to a societal indifference to the suffering of black and Asian communities.

In the critically-acclaimed series produced by Ryan Murphy, the character of Glenda Cleveland (played by Niecy Nash-Betts) embodies the desperate struggle for her voice to be heard amid the tragedy surrounding Dahmer's crimes. Following Dahmer's arrest in July 1991, the real Jesse Jackson made his way to Wisconsin to meet with do despairing family members and community members, advocating for justice and accountability. His involvement highlighted systemic issues in law enforcement and community relations, exposing a culture of neglect.

Jackson's legacy as a champion of civil rights is further cemented by his response to Dahmer's crimes, which serve as a stark reminder of ongoing conversations surrounding racial injustice and systemic racism in America. His voice called for to attention not only the immediate outrages of the Dahmer case but also a broader narrative concerning the responsibility of society to protect vulnerable communities and ensure that justice is served, effectively molding the dialogue surrounding civil rights even today.