Officials react to death of Jesse Jackson

Officials are responding to offer sympathies in the wake of the passing of civil rights activist Jesse Jackson on Monday. 

Jackson died following a long career in politics and activism at the age of 84. He was an ordained minister in the Baptist denomination. 

In a post on social media Thomasville mayor Sheldon Day said that Jackson inspired him after meeting him at a conference in Arkansas. 

"Rev. Jackson very much gained my respect that day as someone who truly wanted us to live by the principal as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stated.... "I have decided to stick to Love.....Hate (sic) is too big a burden to bear", he said. "That speech changed my life and inspired me to never return hate for hate....but, to love in spite of the hate someone may direct at me."

The City of Montgomery posted a tribute online, stating: "His decades of advocacy for equality and justice shaped conversations across our nation. In a city central to the struggle for civil rights, we acknowledge his role in that history and extend condolences to his family and loved ones."

Rep. Terri Sewell, whose district encompasses much of the Black Belt, issued the following:  

“My heart breaks for the passing of Civil Rights icon Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.

Rev. Jackson’s life was a testament to the power of faith, moral conviction, and unrelenting activism. A beloved spiritual and Civil Rights leader, his voice uplifted countless communities and inspired change across generations.

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“Whether fighting for voting rights, economic opportunity, or the dignity of every person, Rev. Jackson’s commitment to justice helped sustain the momentum of The Movement. His moral leadership challenged our nation to live up to its highest ideals, and his courage reminded us that change requires both persistence and compassion.

“Rev. Jackson taught us to ‘keep hope alive’ - to keep pushing, keep organizing, and keep believing that justice is within reach if we remain steadfast. He understood that voting rights are the lifeblood of our democracy, and he never shied away from calling out injustice wherever it lived. His work helped expand opportunity for millions, and his legacy will continue to shape our nation for generations to come.

“My heartfelt condolences are with the family of Rev. Jackson. May his legacy continue to guide us, his spirit continue to strengthen us, and his vision for a brighter future continue to move us forward.

May he rest in peace and power.”

Rep. Shomari Figures stated that his father knew Jackson. 

"There's a part of me that wonders if Mr. Jackson and my father ever thought in their wildest dreams that over 40 years after they met, they would have children serving together in the U.S. Congress," he said. "But I know that answer would be yes, because that's exactly the type of future they fought for."

"I extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Jacqueline, and the entire Jackson family for the loss of this giant in the fight for civil rights and equality for all."