Jesse Jackson Memorial Services Kick Off in Chicago

Public can attend events honoring the civil rights leader's life and legacy over the next two weeks.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Memorial services for the late Rev. Jesse Jackson will be held over the next two weeks in Chicago, Washington, D.C., and South Carolina, organized by Jackson's family and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. The public will have the opportunity to honor the renowned civil rights activist, political figure, and minister who fought for peace, equality, and social justice throughout his career.

Why it matters

As a towering icon of the civil rights movement, Jesse Jackson's passing marks the end of an era. These memorial services allow the public to celebrate his immense contributions and lasting impact on the fight for racial and economic justice in America.

The details

The Celebration of Life events will include a lying in repose at the Rainbow PUSH headquarters, a public homegoing at the House of Hope church, and a private homegoing also at Rainbow PUSH in Chicago. Formal services will also be held in Washington, D.C., and South Carolina between March 2-4.

  • Memorial services will take place over the next two weeks.
  • Events in Chicago will be held from Thursday, February 27 through Saturday, March 1.
  • Services in Washington, D.C. and South Carolina will be held from Monday, March 2 through Wednesday, March 4.

The players

Jesse Jackson

A renowned civil rights leader, political figure, and minister who fought for peace, civil rights, gender equality, and economic and social justice throughout his career. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000.

Rainbow PUSH Coalition

The organization founded by Jesse Jackson that will be hosting some of the memorial services in Chicago.

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The takeaway

These memorial services provide an opportunity for the public to honor Jesse Jackson's immense contributions to the civil rights movement and his lasting impact on the fight for equality and social justice in America.