At 84-years-old, Reverend Jesse Jackson has passed away, leaving a lifetime of civil rights activism and large-scale impact. He continued Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s message by being a part of the Greenville Eight and founding Operation People United To Save Humanity (PUSH). As the world mourns the loss of this leading figure in civil rights, his legacy will be honored through continuing the work he championed.
Despite no cause of death being released, Jackson was admitted to the hospital last November diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). The neurodegenerative disease that is often confused with Parkinson’s causes a rapid decline in balance, speech, swallowing and more. Jackson was surrounded by family when he passed, according to a statement made by his family.
Jackson grew up in the South during the Jim Crow era. Walking to segregated schools and facing the hatred head on as a kid left an immense ambition in advocating for civil rights. As he grew up and began to work with King Jr., Jackson was a public voice for nonviolent resistance. His two historic presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 were a breakthrough for the African American community, despite losing both races.
As Black History month has come to a close and the celebrations have begun to wrap up, the memory of Jackson is one that will be celebrated and remembered in every month of the year.
In support of figures like Jackson, Buena’s Black Student Union (BSU) has held multiple on-campus events like a spirit week, banana bread sales and a movie night to help raise awareness for the history embedded in 100 years of Black History Month.
The president of BSU, senior Tatum Harris, is committed to continuing the work of these leaders and bringing awareness to Buena in a way that is fun and accessible.
“We hosted a spirit week, and we are doing our door decorating competition,” Harris said. “Those are good ways to show your honor and your respect and learn more about some African Americans who have done something similar [to Jesse Jackson].”
BSU vice president senior Nicolas Faught believes in the importance of allowing BSU students to reach out to students and allow them to connect with Black history in their own respects.
“Our events bring a light of recognition for a lot of people that aren’t as recognized who are working towards great causes,” Faught said.
Since the passing of Jesse Jackson, many students have learned of his lifelong work and the impact he brought. Through his legacy and the resources that BSU brings to Buena’s campus, students can continue to stay informed and connected, supporting their peers and learning about the figures that improved the lives of many.
“It is really important to search for history that isn’t taught in class,” Faught said. “Read books and look up names of those who you don’t know, make an effort to learn about them.”
