Rev. Jesse Jackson, Civil Rights Icon, Dies at 84

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in the American civil rights movement and a two-time presidential candidate, has died at the age of 84. His daughter, Santita Jackson, confirmed his death on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, stating he passed away at his home in Chicago surrounded by family Associated Press.

A Life Dedicated to Equality

Born out of wedlock on October 8, 1941, Jackson overcame early challenges to become a powerful voice for Black economic and racial equality Los Angeles Times. He battled progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare neurological disorder, for over a decade, after initially being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2017 Los Angeles Times.

From Civil Rights Activism to Presidential Campaigns

Jackson rose to national prominence as a close aide to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., and later founded Operation PUSH and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, organizations dedicated to advocating for social justice and economic empowerment Los Angeles Times. He was present with King in Memphis, Tennessee, the day before King’s assassination in 1968 Los Angeles Times.

He launched presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, becoming the first Black candidate to garner significant national support. In 1984, he secured approximately 3.5 million votes, and in 1988, he won 7 million votes, second only to Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis Los Angeles Times. His 1988 Democratic National Convention speech is remembered as a particularly moving moment Los Angeles Times.

A Legacy of Hope and Justice

The Jackson family released a statement describing him as a “servant leader” who dedicated his life to the oppressed and overlooked Los Angeles Times. Santita Jackson remembered her father as a courageous man who would “put his life on the line” for the causes he fought for The Hill. She hopes people will remember him as a “champion” CBS News.

Jackson’s impact extended beyond politics, inspiring generations with his message of hope and his unwavering commitment to justice. His legacy continues to resonate in the ongoing fight for equality and opportunity.