2026 has been struck with another huge tragedy as one of the leaders of the Civil Rights movement has sadly passed away this morning. Former presidential candidate and Civil Rights activist Jesse Jackson succumbed to the effects of his persisting neurological issues that he struggled with for many years. Jackson lived to the age of 84 and left a significant legacy behind, paving the way for equal rights and opportunity amongst African American communities.
Jackson was a pivotal figure within the Civil Rights movement as he protested alongside Martin Luther King against the racially biased and discriminatory treatment of Black Americans. Jackson targeted big corporations, holding them responsible for their lack of equal representation and inclusion, and heavily encouraged diversity in an attempt to achieve equality for black individuals. Jackson’s efforts were not in vain as the protests served as the catalysts for change, sparking racial equality and condemning discrimination within society.
Apart from his courageous efforts during the Civil Rights era, Jackson blazed a new trail for African American opportunity through his campaigns for presidency in 1984 and 1988. He became only the second African American to run for president, and while he lost in both campaigns, he won the respect of the communities whom he inspired. Jackson’s bravery and initiative gave strength to the Black community and represented a shift within society as he fought to achieve black excellence and success while promoting those sentiments to the groups and communities that he represented.
Jackson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease back in 2017. After more treatment and research, doctors found that he had a rare neurological disease known as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) that had significant impacts on his cognitive functioning. The disease stuck with him for years before finally being the cause of his death.
Through Jackson’s 84 years of life, he accomplished great feats on behalf of the African American community. His contributions to achieving equal rights and his determination to challenge big businesses and corporations that were complicit in stunting racial diversity and inclusion sparked a major revolution within American society. His attempt at becoming the first African American president in office, while unsuccessful, signaled a new era in the awakening and made him one of the most influential members of the Civil Rights movement, leaving behind an inspirational legacy.
