Former US Presidents to Attend Jesse Jackson Memorial

Biden, Obama, and Clinton to honor civil rights leader at Chicago service

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Former U.S. Presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton are expected to join thousands of mourners at a public memorial service for Jesse Jackson in Chicago that will honor the longtime civil-rights activist and Democrat political leader. Jackson, who died last month at the age of 84, was a leading advocate for voting rights and desegregation.

Why it matters

The presence of high-profile Democrat dignitaries at the memorial service can be seen as a protest against increasing pressure on diversity and civil rights initiatives from the previous administration, which has curbed such programs and policies.

The details

The memorial on Friday at the House of Hope, a 10,000-seat venue on Chicago's South Side, is expected to be the largest service honoring Jackson's life and legacy. In addition to the former presidents, former first ladies Jill Biden and Hillary Clinton are also expected to attend. Singers Jennifer Hudson, BeBe Winans and Pastor Marvin Winans are set to perform.

  • The memorial service is scheduled for Friday.
  • Jackson died last month at the age of 84.

The players

Joe Biden

Former U.S. President.

Barack Obama

Former U.S. President.

Bill Clinton

Former U.S. President.

Jill Biden

Former First Lady of the United States.

Hillary Clinton

Former First Lady, U.S. Secretary of State.

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What they’re saying

“Rev. Jackson will be remembered for his oratory prowess, but in Chicago we knew him as a brilliant strategist, master negotiator and organizing savant.”

— Brandon Johnson, Mayor of Chicago

What’s next

The memorial service on Friday is expected to be the largest honoring Jackson's life and legacy.

The takeaway

The high-profile attendance of former Democratic presidents and first ladies at Jesse Jackson's memorial service underscores his lasting impact as a civil rights leader and the continued importance of addressing issues of diversity, equity and inclusion in the political landscape.