Louisiana Leaders Mourn Passing of Civil Rights Icon Reverend Jesse Jackson

Lawmakers reflect on Reverend Jackson's lifelong commitment to social justice and empowering communities

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Louisiana State Senator Sam L. Jenkins, Jr. and other local leaders expressed sadness at the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson, a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. They recalled Reverend Jackson's unwavering dedication to advocating for greater social, economic, and political inclusion, even during a recent visit to the Louisiana State Capitol when he was physically frail but his voice and compassion remained strong.

Why it matters

Reverend Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the fight for racial equality and social justice in America. His death marks the end of an era, and his legacy of faith, service, and empowerment will continue to inspire leaders and communities across Louisiana and the nation.

The details

In a statement, Senator Jenkins reflected on meeting Reverend Jackson in 2022 at the Louisiana State Capitol, where they discussed African American voter registration and civic participation. Despite his physical frailty, Jenkins noted that Reverend Jackson's 'voice and compassion remained strong' as he remained committed to empowering communities. Other local leaders, including former State Senator Greg Tarver and Commissioner Ken Epperson, also shared memories of Reverend Jackson's visits to Louisiana and his impact on the state.

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

The players

Reverend Jesse Jackson

A prominent figure in the civil rights movement who dedicated his life to advocating for greater social, economic, and political inclusion.

Senator Sam L. Jenkins, Jr.

A Louisiana State Senator who expressed sadness at the passing of Reverend Jackson and reflected on their meeting in Baton Rouge.

Greg Tarver

A former Louisiana State Senator who recalled meeting Reverend Jackson and supporting his presidential campaign.

Ken Epperson

A Commissioner in District 12 who had the opportunity to meet and be encouraged by Reverend Jackson.

Barbra Norton

A former member of the Louisiana House of Representatives who praised Reverend Jackson's unwavering commitment to justice and equality.

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What they’re saying

“Reverend Jackson became a leading voice for those seeking justice and equality across our nation.”

— Senator Sam L. Jenkins, Jr., Louisiana State Senator (cenlanow.com)

“Reverend Jesse Jackson was a fighter for poor people and needy people in this country.”

— Greg Tarver, Former Louisiana State Senator (cenlanow.com)

“I had a chance to shake his hand. He acknowledged my name. And he encouraged me to continue to do what I'm doing and of course also you know I had written a deal called a Student's oath of commitment to Education and I think that that I know that Reverend Jackson's that that deal he did for the kids I am somebody that gave me the impetus to sit down and write that.”

— Ken Epperson, Commissioner, District 12 (cenlanow.com)

“We've lost a giant we've lost someone who was not afraid we lost someone who was ready we we lost. Someone who wouldn't back up and who wouldn't take no for an answer and we we lost someone who did so much for this country in the sense of helping people, showing them how they can be better tomorrow than what they was today.”

— Barbra Norton, Former Louisiana House of Representatives member (cenlanow.com)

“Our father was a servant leader – not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world. His unwavering belief in justice, equality and love uplifted millions and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by.”

— Reverend Jackson's Family (cenlanow.com)

The takeaway

Reverend Jesse Jackson's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of faith, service, and unwavering commitment to empowering marginalized communities will continue to inspire leaders and activists across Louisiana and the nation to carry on his fight for social justice and equality.