Louisiana Senator Remembers Civil Rights Icon Rev. Jesse Jackson

Sen. Sam Jenkins issues statement following the passing of the renowned activist and leader.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Louisiana State Senator Sam Jenkins (D-Shreveport) released a statement honoring the life and legacy of civil rights pioneer Rev. Jesse Jackson, who passed away at the age of 84. Jenkins praised Jackson's lifelong commitment to advancing civil rights, economic justice, and nonviolent social change, and recalled meeting with the reverend in 2022 at the Louisiana State Capitol to discuss Black voter registration and civic engagement.

Why it matters

Rev. Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the American civil rights movement, emerging as a national leader after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His two historic presidential campaigns and founding of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition cemented his status as one of the most influential African American political and social activists of the late 20th century.

The details

Jackson marched alongside Dr. King and later participated in high-profile diplomatic efforts, negotiating the release of a U.S. pilot held in Syria and securing the freedom of 22 Americans and 26 political prisoners in Cuba. Even in his later years, he remained active in protests, being arrested twice in 2021 while demonstrating against the U.S. Senate's filibuster rule.

  • Rev. Jesse Jackson passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • In 2022, Sen. Sam Jenkins met with Rev. Jackson at the Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge.

The players

Rev. Jesse Jackson

A renowned civil rights activist who marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and later emerged as a national political force, running for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988.

Sen. Sam Jenkins

A Democratic state senator from Shreveport, Louisiana, who issued a statement honoring the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson.

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What they’re saying

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson — a lifelong champion for civil rights, justice, and nonviolent social change.”

— Sen. Sam Jenkins, Louisiana State Senator (postsouth.com)

“His unwavering commitment to empowering communities never faded. Reverend Jackson leaves behind an extraordinary legacy rooted in faith, service, and love for his fellow man.”

— Sen. Sam Jenkins, Louisiana State Senator (postsouth.com)

The takeaway

Rev. Jesse Jackson's passing marks the end of an era for the civil rights movement, but his legacy of activism, political leadership, and unwavering commitment to social justice will continue to inspire generations of Americans seeking a more equitable and inclusive society.