NAACP Honors the Life and Legacy of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., A Son of the Movement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 17, 2026
Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON – The NAACP mourns the passing of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., a transformative leader whose life's work is deeply woven into the history, mission, and enduring impact of our Association and the nation.
A lifelong soldier for justice, Rev. Jackson emerged from the very soil that nurtured the NAACP for over a century. As a young organizer in the 1960s, he labored alongside NAACP leaders, spoke at several national conventions, marched with our members, and helped expand the national movement for racial equality into a broad, people-powered coalition demanding systemic change.
NAACP Chairman of the Board, Leon W. Russell, NAACP Vice Chair of the Board, Karen Boykin Towns, and NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson, released the following joint statement:
"Reverend Jesse Jackson was not only a civil rights icon — he was family to the NAACP. His work advanced Black America at every turn. He challenged this nation to live up to its highest ideals, and he reminded our movement that hope is both a strategy and a responsibility. His historic run for president inspired millions and brought race to the forefront of American politics.
"We honor his legacy by continuing the work he championed: protecting the right to vote, expanding economic opportunity, and fighting for the freedom and dignity of Black people everywhere."
Throughout the arc of his ministry and activism, Rev. Jackson remained an unwavering ally and partner to the NAACP. In 1988, NAACP awarded Rev. Jackson the President's Award at the NAACP Image Awards in recognition of his distinguished public service. And, in 1989, Rev. Jackson received the NAACP Spingarn Medal for outstanding achievement.
Rev. Jackson's leadership in advancing voting rights, economic justice, and educational opportunity strengthened the very pillars of our community. Whether challenging racially discriminatory policies, uplifting marginalized voices, or building multiracial movements through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, he forged a path forward to eliminate racial discrimination and ensure full political, educational, social, and economic equality for all.
Rev. Jackson's passing marks the loss of a towering moral voice, but the movement he helped build will carry his light forward. His legacy calls each of us to stay committed, stay organized, and remain faithful to the pursuit of justice.
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ABOUT NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st-century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.