Colorado Black Leaders Reflect on Rev. Jesse Jackson's Impact in Denver

Reverend Jesse Jackson, the iconic civil rights leader, passed away at 84 and left a lasting impression on the Denver community.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Following the death of Reverend Jesse Jackson at the age of 84, prominent Black leaders in Colorado shared stories of his inspirational visits and leadership in the Denver community over the past several decades. Cleo Parker Robinson, a renowned dancer and trailblazer, former Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, and Dr. Jasmine Harris of Metropolitan State University all spoke about Jackson's impact on the city's Black community and his influence on their own lives and careers.

Why it matters

Reverend Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the civil rights movement who dedicated his life to fighting for racial justice and equality. His visits to Denver highlighted the city's vibrant Black community and inspired many local leaders to enter politics, law, and the arts. Jackson's legacy continues to shape the next generation of activists and public servants in Colorado.

The details

Reverend Jesse Jackson died on Tuesday at the age of 84. As news of his passing spread, Black leaders in Denver gathered at the Black World Conference at Metropolitan State University to reflect on Jackson's impact. Cleo Parker Robinson, a renowned dancer and trailblazer, recalled how Jackson recognized the strength of Denver's small but mighty Black community and always appreciated the role of the arts. Former Denver Mayor Michael Hancock shared a story of seeing Jackson speak at his school when he was 6 years old, noting that the civil rights leader had been a constant presence in his life. Dr. Jasmine Harris, chair of the Africana Studies program at MSU, said Jackson inspired many young people in Colorado to enter the political and legal professions, and that his presidential campaigns paved the way for leaders like Barack Obama and Kamala Harris.

  • Reverend Jesse Jackson died on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Reverend Jesse Jackson

A prominent civil rights leader who dedicated his life to fighting for racial justice and equality.

Cleo Parker Robinson

A renowned dancer and trailblazer in Colorado's Black community.

Michael Hancock

The former mayor of Denver who was inspired by Reverend Jackson from a young age.

Dr. Jasmine Harris

The chair of the Africana Studies program at Metropolitan State University in Denver.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Even though we had a small black community, he knew it was a mighty one, and he tapped into that. And here, I was an artist, and he knew that, but he always knew that art had a place, and I always appreciated that.”

— Cleo Parker Robinson, Colorado's famous dancer and trailblazer

“Jesse Jackson came to Denver so often, I saw him during every developing phase of my life. Jesse was impactful to a lot of us. He touched so many leaders in this nation today.”

— Michael Hancock, Former Denver Mayor (9NEWS)

“Jesse Jackson's attempts to run for president also carved paths, especially for Barack Obama and Kamala Harris.”

— Dr. Jasmine Harris, Chair of the Africana Studies program at Metropolitan State University

The takeaway

Reverend Jesse Jackson's legacy in Denver will continue to inspire the next generation of activists, public servants, and community leaders. His unwavering commitment to racial justice and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life left an indelible mark on the city's Black community and beyond.