Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. Honored at Funeral in Chicago

South African President Ramaphosa, Former Presidents Obama and Clinton Pay Tribute to Civil Rights Icon

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr., a towering figure in the American civil rights movement, was honored at a funeral service in Chicago on February 23, 2026. The service drew a large gathering of dignitaries, civil rights leaders, and mourners, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, former President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, and former President Bill Clinton. Ramaphosa delivered a powerful tribute, remembering Jackson as a 'champion of the oppressed' and 'one of our own' for his unwavering support of the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa.

Why it matters

Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. was a pioneering civil rights leader whose decades-long commitment to social justice, economic empowerment, and political activism left an indelible mark on the United States and inspired movements for equality around the globe. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of continued activism.

The details

The funeral service, held at the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition headquarters, featured musical performances, personal reflections from family and friends, and calls to continue Jackson's work. Biden, Obama, and Clinton each offered tributes, highlighting Jackson's impact on their own lives and careers. Ramaphosa's presence underscored the international resonance of Jackson's work, particularly his advocacy against apartheid in South Africa.

  • The funeral service was held on February 23, 2026.
  • Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 82.

The players

Cyril Ramaphosa

The President of South Africa, who delivered a powerful tribute to Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. at his funeral.

Barack Obama

The former President of the United States, who offered a tribute to Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. and acknowledged the complexities of their relationship, including a period of tension in 2008.

Joe Biden

The current President of the United States, who offered a tribute to Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. at the funeral service.

Bill Clinton

The former President of the United States, who offered a tribute to Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. at the funeral service.

Jesse Jackson Sr.

A towering figure in the American civil rights movement, who passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 82.

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What they’re saying

“He stood with us during our darkest days, lending his voice and his influence to our cause. He was, in every sense of the word, one of our own.”

— Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa (The Presidency)

“He was a mentor and a friend, and I acknowledge the complexities of our relationship, including a period of tension in 2008.”

— Barack Obama (BBC)

What’s next

The coming months will likely see renewed calls for action on issues Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. championed, including voting rights, economic justice, and peace.

The takeaway

Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr.'s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of continued activism. His legacy as a pioneering civil rights leader who inspired movements for justice around the world will continue to inspire future generations.