Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader in the U.S., passed away at the age of 84, remembered for his advocacy for marginalized communities and support for South Korea's democratization.
Jesse Jackson, a renowned American civil rights leader, died on the 17th of October at the age of 84, as confirmed by his family. His family commemorated him as a leader who served not only their family but also the oppressed and marginalized worldwide, stating that he was a voice for the voiceless. Jackson had publicly revealed his battle with Parkinson's disease in 2017, which he had been fighting until his death. Throughout his life, Jackson was a pivotal figure in advocating for the rights of African Americans and disadvantaged groups, beginning his work during the civil rights movement of the 1960s led by his mentor, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He founded the civil rights organization ‘Operation PUSH’ in Chicago in 1971 and later established the ‘National Rainbow Coalition’ in 1984, which encompassed women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights. These organizations merged in 1996 to form the Rainbow PUSH Coalition (RPC), which Jackson led for over 50 years, working tirelessly for civil rights and social justice.
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition is credited with playing a significant role in supporting the election of Barack Obama, the first African American president of the United States. Jackson himself made two notable runs for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, attracting support from both African American voters and white liberals. Known for his exceptional oratory skills and hands-on activism, Jackson was also noted for his informal diplomatic efforts, successfully negotiating the release of Americans and foreign nationals detained in various conflict zones, including Syria, Cuba, Iraq, and Serbia.
In his later years, Jackson continued to be a vocal advocate for Black rights, speaking out against police brutality especially following the tragic death of George Floyd in 2020, calling for justice and accountability. Additionally, his deep connection to South Korea is evident from his visit in 1986, during the regime of Chun Doo-hwan, where he demonstrated solidarity with the country's struggles for democracy, visiting the demilitarized zone and advocating for human rights. The legacy of Jesse Jackson extends beyond the U.S., affecting global movements for justice and equality.
