Former Presidents, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Joe Biden, attended the memorial service in Chicago. In addition, Kamala Harris, the previous vice president, delivered remarks. Consequently, these leaders honored the late Rev. Jesse Jackson during the event.
First, the Jackson family held the event on Friday morning. Moreover, they called it a Celebration of Hope. Previously, Rev. Jesse Jackson died in February. As a result, the pioneering civil rights leader was 86 years old.
Service Takes Place At House of Hope
Next, the public homegoing service took place at the House of Hope event center on Chicago’s South Side. Meanwhile, thousands of people gathered for the tribute. Subsequently, a private service followed on Saturday morning.
Family Releases Statement
Furthermore, the Jackson family issued a statement before the service. They said, “Jesse Jackson, Sr. marched beside Martin Luther King, Jr. for civil rights for all people. He traveled the world fighting economic and gender inequity. Until his last days, he fought for better healthcare, education, and peace in Chicago, Illinois, the United States, and beyond.”
In addition, they added, “I hope everyone who joins us to honor his legacy will also continue to champion these causes. That would be the best possible tribute and celebration they could offer.”
Son Calls For Respect and Unity
Meanwhile, Jesse Jackson Jr. spoke at a press conference last month. He stated, “Do not bring your politics out of respect to Rev. Jesse Jackson and the life that he lived to these home going services. Come respectful and come to say thank you, but these homegoing services are welcome to all Democrat, Republican, liberal and conservative, right wing, left wing, because his life is broad enough to cover the full spectrum of what it means to be an American.”
Speakers and Performers Join Tribute
Likewise, Brandon Johnson, the Chicago mayor, addressed the crowd. In addition, J.B. Pritzker, the Illinois governor, also spoke. Following that, singer Jennifer Hudson performed along with gospel artists Bebe Winans and Marvin Winans.
Earlier, the Chicago event came after thousands paid respects at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters last week. Additionally, Jackson lay in state in South Carolina on Monday as will be buried on March 6, 2026, as reported by ALO360.
Legacy Of Activism Endures
Moreover, Jackson worked as a protege of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. He ran for president in 1984 and 1988. Besides, he founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and advocated for voting rights, economic justice and equality worldwide. Finally, the family said, “Jesse Jackson, Sr. changed the United States and the world.”
