Former Presidents Clinton, Obama and Biden honor late Rev. Jesse Jackson at Friday service

The late Rev. Jesse Jackson is being honored at a memorial service in Chicago, where three former American presidents and a former vice president are paying tribute to the pioneering civil rights leader. The “Celebration of Hope” event, organized by the Jackson family, is a reflection of Jackson’s legacy and impact on civil rights and social justice.

Former Presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden, along with former Vice President Kamala Harris, are expected to deliver remarks at the service. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former first lady Jill Biden are also in attendance. The event is a solemn yet celebratory occasion to remember Jackson’s contributions to the fight for equality and justice.

The Jackson family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and recognition of Jesse Jackson’s work throughout his life. They highlighted his dedication to advocating for economic and gender equity, as well as his efforts to improve healthcare, education, and peace both locally and globally. The family hopes that those attending the service will continue to champion these causes in honor of Jackson’s legacy.

The public homegoing service is being held at the House of Hope event center, with a private service scheduled for the following day. The services come after a series of tributes to Jackson, including a public viewing at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters in Chicago and a state honor in South Carolina.

Scheduled speakers at the service include Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Rep. Maxine Waters, and Chicago Cubs owner Tom Ricketts. Renowned artists like Jennifer Hudson, Bebe Winans, and Pastor Marvin Winans are set to perform, with Stevie Wonder scheduled to perform at the private service.

Jackson’s passing marked the end of a chapter in American history, as his activism and advocacy have left a lasting impact on society. His children reflected on his presidential runs and his commitment to advancing economic justice and political power for Black Americans. Jackson’s son, Jesse Jackson Jr., called for unity and respect at the funeral services, emphasizing the importance of honoring his father’s legacy regardless of political affiliations.

The memorial service serves as a reminder of the progress made in the fight for civil rights and social justice, while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done to achieve equality for all. Jesse Jackson’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the movements he inspired, leaving a lasting impact on generations to come.