Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson Sr., a veteran American civil rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, has died at age 84, his family said on Tuesday, prompting messages of condolence from global leaders including President Bola Tinubu, United States President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris.
Reverend Jackson was a Baptist minister and a central figure in the United States civil rights movement from the 1960s onwards. He worked closely with Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and played a role in protests and campaigns for racial equality, voting rights and economic justice.
He founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, an organisation dedicated to social justice, political empowerment and economic inclusion for marginalised communities.
Jackson also ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, campaigns seen as breaking racial barriers in American politics.
Jackson’s family announced his death in a statement, saying he died peacefully on Tuesday morning surrounded by family. They described him as a “servant leader” whose commitment to justice, equality and human rights shaped movements for freedom and dignity.
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria paid tribute to Jackson, describing him as a “faithful servant of God and humanity” and noting his influence on civil rights and global movements for equality.
Tinubu said Jackson’s activism helped lay the groundwork for greater political inclusion, including impacting the election of Barack Obama as the first Black US president.
US President Donald Trump described Jackson as “a force of nature” with “personality, grit, and street smarts,” noting their long acquaintance and offering condolences to Jackson’s family.
Former President Joe Biden characterised Jackson as “a man of God and of the people,” whose determination and tenacity helped lead the nation through pivotal moments. Biden and First Lady Jill Biden extended their sympathies to Jackson’s family and supporters.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris called Jackson “one of America’s greatest patriots,” recalling the impact of his presidential campaigns and his work in building inclusive coalitions across society.
Tributes also came from veteran civil rights activists and political figures, with Al Sharpton calling Jackson “a consequential and transformative leader” and others highlighting his advocacy against apartheid and international human rights work.
The widespread tributes reflect Jackson’s long-standing influence on civil rights and political movements in the United States and internationally.
Leaders from different political backgrounds and regions acknowledged his decades of activism and advocacy for marginalised groups.
Jackson’s death has prompted reflection on his role in shaping conversations about racial equality, voting rights, economic justice and global human rights since the 1960s.
