Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr., a very important person in the civil rights movement, has died. He was 84 years old. Reverend Jackson worked hard for people who needed help. He also ran for president two times. He started the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. His life's work helped many people and changed America.
Jackson was born in South Carolina in 1941. He saw unfairness because of race when he was young. In 1960, he joined a protest at a library that was only for white people. This showed his strong wish to end unfair rules. He then worked with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King helped Jackson become a better speaker and planner. Jackson went to Selma to support freedom.
Jackson also ran for president in 1984 and 1988. These campaigns were important. They helped many Black voters become more involved in politics. This changed the Democratic Party. Leaders like Barack Obama were able to do more because of Jackson's work. Michelle Obama said Jackson's ideas influenced her early political thoughts.
Jackson also started the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. This group works for social justice and civil rights. He helped many different communities. He also supported Arab Americans. An activist named James Zogby said Jackson spoke for Palestinian self-determination. Jackson believed justice is for everyone.
Reverend Jackson had a family with his wife, Jacqueline. They had six children. In his later years, he had a health problem called PSP. He was also sick with COVID-19. However, he continued to help people.
His family announced his death with sadness. Many people around the world will miss him. Chicago, where he lived, is remembering his important work. Reverend Jackson's life showed courage and hard work. He fought for justice and helped people without a voice. His legacy is part of America's story.