Jesse Jackson to step down from civil rights leadership after long tenure.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. to Step Down as President of Rainbow PUSH Coalition

The Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., a civil rights icon and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, will be stepping down as president of the organization after over 50 years, according to his son’s congressional office. The announcement was made on Friday, and the successor to lead the day-to-day operations of Rainbow PUSH will be revealed at the annual convention in Chicago, Illinois, on Sunday. The event will be headlined by Vice President Kamala Harris.

A Legacy of Fighting for Social Justice

At 81 years old and diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2017, Rev. Jackson has faced physical challenges, but his commitment to the fight for civil rights has never wavered. Since 1961, he has been at the forefront of the battle for equal rights, undeterred by opposition to the Voting Rights Act, the Equal Rights Amendment, or addressing pressing issues at home and abroad.

Rainbow PUSH is the result of Rev. Jackson’s merger of two nonprofit organizations, Operation PUSH and the National Rainbow Coalition, which he founded in 1971 and 1984, respectively. His journey to prominence began alongside the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., who served as his mentor. Together, they led numerous protests to desegregate establishments such as theaters and restaurants.

Rev. Jackson’s involvement in civil rights and politics has remained steadfast throughout the years. He continues to be a familiar face in both arenas, leading protests against racial injustice and staying engaged in Beltway politics. His dedication to the cause is exemplified by his support for his son, Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), whom he proudly stood by in Washington, D.C., during his swearing-in ceremony as a member of the House earlier this year.

Rev. Jackson’s impact on the pursuit of social justice and civil rights is immeasurable. As he passes the torch to a new leader, his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

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