American civil rights activist Jesse Louis Jackson dies aged 84
Jesse Jackson, an American civil rights icon, has died aged 84 after a long health battle.
American civil rights icon Jesse Jackson has died aged 84 after a long health battle.
Known for working alongside Martin Luther King Jr and running two historic presidential campaigns, Jackson fought for human rights his entire life.
Over the course of his career he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and continued his advocacy through the Black Lives Matter movement even as his health deteriorated.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.In November last year he was hospitalised in relation to his progressive neuromuscular disease progressive supranuclear palsy - a condition he battled for years.
On Tuesday at the age of 84, Jackson died peacefully, surrounded by his family.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Civil Rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Honorable Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr,” the family said in a statement.
“His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity. A tireless change agent, he elevated the voices of the voiceless from his Presidential campaigns in the 1980s to mobilising millions to register to vote - leaving an indelible mark on history.”
“Our father was a servant leader - not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless and the overlooked around the world.”
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