Thousands to Gather at Chicago Church for Public Celebration of Rev. Jesse Jackson

Friday's public service, dubbed "The People's Celebration," begins at 11 a.m., with doors open at 9 a.m. and large crowds and traffic expected.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Thousands of people are expected to gather at the House of Hope church in Chicago's Pullman neighborhood on Friday morning to honor the late Rev. Jesse Jackson as part of a series of "homegoing" services remembering the civil rights leader. The public service, dubbed "The People's Celebration," will feature speeches from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, former Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Joe Biden, as well as other celebrities and dignitaries.

Why it matters

Rev. Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the civil rights movement and a prominent political and social activist. His passing marks the end of an era, and this public celebration is a chance for the community to come together and honor his legacy and contributions to the fight for equality and justice.

The details

Friday's public service will take place at the House of Hope church in Chicago's Pullman neighborhood, with doors opening at 9 a.m. and the service beginning at 11 a.m. and concluding at 2 p.m. Organizers are expecting large crowds and traffic, and have advised early arrival for those wishing to attend. The service will feature speeches from a number of high-profile figures, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, former Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Joe Biden, as well as other celebrities and dignitaries.

  • Doors open to the public at 9 a.m. CT on Friday, March 6, 2026.
  • The public "People's Celebration" service begins at 11 a.m. CT and concludes at 2 p.m. CT on Friday, March 6, 2026.
  • A private celebration of life will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters.

The players

Rev. Jesse Jackson

A prominent civil rights leader and political activist who dedicated his life to advancing the dignity and opportunities of millions of people.

Brandon Johnson

The current mayor of Chicago, who is expected to speak at the public service.

J.B. Pritzker

The current governor of Illinois, who is expected to speak at the public service.

Barack Obama

The 44th President of the United States, who is expected to speak at the public service.

Bill Clinton

The 42nd President of the United States, who is expected to speak at the public service.

Joe Biden

The 46th President of the United States, who is expected to speak at the public service.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It is my profound honor to be one of the officiants celebrating the extraordinary life of my mentor, friend, and hero—Reverend Jesse Jackson. He devoted his life with fearless courage and unwavering commitment to advancing the dignity and opportunities of millions of people from every walk of life around the world—his voice will continue to resonate powerfully, echoing across generations and inspiring hearts for years to come.”

— Dr. Charles Jenkins, Co-officiant (NBC Chicago)

“From a child of 10 years old, no other figure has had the effect on me as the great Reverend Jesse Jackson. I've had the honor of growing up working alongside him for the last 35 years, traveling around the world, watching him become the biggest leader in every room using only two weapons—morality and servanthood. Nobody will ever match the impact that he had on this earth.”

— Rev. James T. Meeks, Co-officiant (NBC Chicago)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This public celebration of Rev. Jesse Jackson's life and legacy is a testament to the profound impact he had on the civil rights movement and the fight for social justice. His unwavering commitment to advancing the dignity and opportunities of all people will continue to inspire generations to come.