Rev. Jesse Jackson's Final Farewells Celebrated in Chicago

Leaders from across the globe honor the civil rights leader's legacy and impact

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Since the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson on February 17 at age 84, leaders from around the world have been paying tribute to the civil rights icon's contributions to society. The details of his final homegoing events in Chicago today and tomorrow are being coordinated by Tarrah Cooper Wright, CEO of Rise Strategy Group, and Alexandra Sims-Jones, president of APS & Associates - two Black women who say Jackson deeply impacted their professional trajectories.

Why it matters

Rev. Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the civil rights movement, founding the Rainbow PUSH social justice nonprofit and leaving an indelible mark on the fight for equality and justice. His death marks the end of an era, and the final farewell events in his hometown of Chicago are an opportunity for the nation to come together and celebrate his legacy.

The details

The homegoing events for Rev. Jackson are being planned by Tarrah Cooper Wright and Alexandra Sims-Jones, who both credit the civil rights leader with shaping their careers. 'We will see the best of our country and our world,' Cooper Wright said. 'People all want to celebrate the humanity, the humility and the moral compass the reverend had.' The events will take place in Chicago over the next two days.

  • Rev. Jesse Jackson passed away on February 17, 2026 at the age of 84.
  • His final homegoing events are scheduled for today and tomorrow in Chicago.

The players

Rev. Jesse Jackson

A renowned civil rights leader, founder of the Rainbow PUSH social justice nonprofit, and influential figure in the fight for equality and justice.

Tarrah Cooper Wright

CEO of the public relations and political consulting firm Rise Strategy Group, who says her professional trajectory was deeply impacted by Rev. Jackson.

Alexandra Sims-Jones

President and founder of APS & Associates, who also credits Rev. Jackson with shaping her career.

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What they’re saying

“We will see the best of our country and our world. People all want to celebrate the humanity, the humility and the moral compass the reverend had.”

— Tarrah Cooper Wright, CEO, Rise Strategy Group (Chicago Tribune)

The takeaway

Rev. Jesse Jackson's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of fighting for civil rights and social justice will continue to inspire generations to come. The final farewell events in Chicago are a chance for the nation to come together and honor the life and work of this towering figure.