Civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson dies at 83

Legendary civil rights leader Jesse Jackson has died at the age of 83, his family confirmed on Monday, February 17, 2026. Jackson passed away peacefully after a prolonged battle with health complications, marking the end of a remarkable life devoted to justice, equality, and public service.

Jackson rose to prominence in the 1960s as a close ally of Martin Luther King Jr., playing a key role in the struggle for racial equality in the United States. He later founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which became a powerful platform for advocating economic empowerment, voter rights, and social justice for marginalized communities.

Beyond activism, Jackson made history with his presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, becoming one of the first Black Americans to mount serious bids for the White House. His campaigns energized millions and helped reshape national conversations around race, poverty, and opportunity, while opening doors for greater political participation across diverse communities.

Tributes poured in from across the political and social spectrum, with former President Barack Obama describing Jackson as a tireless champion of dignity and democracy. Faith leaders, lawmakers, and activists also praised his decades of service and credited him with inspiring generations to stand up for civil rights and human dignity.

Jackson’s family thanked the public for its support and prayers, saying his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched. As the world reflects on his passing, Reverend Jesse Jackson is being remembered not only as a protest leader and political figure, but as a relentless advocate whose voice helped shape modern civil rights history.