Holness remembers Jesse Jackson as civil rights icon who fought for humanity

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has expressed sadness at the passing of American civil rights icon Jesse Jackson Sr.

Jackson died Tuesday surrounded by family, according to a statement posted online by his family. He was 84.

Holness described Jackson as one of the most consequential civil rights leaders of the 20th and 21st centuries.

“His activism, which centred on championing economic, racial and social justice, and empowering Black, minority and working-class people, including voters, had a global impact and will resonate for centuries to come,” he said.

“Humanity owes Reverend Jackson a debt of gratitude. He was an inspirational orator who commanded the ears and consciousness of those in the corridors of power, both in the United States and around the world,” added Holness.

The Prime Minister said that Jackson is among a unique cadre of civil rights leaders, including the late Dr Martin Luther King Jr, who were admirable for their ability to put aside self-interest and, at significant personal risk, prioritise what was right and good for humanity — not only in the United States of America, but across the globe.

“The passing of Reverend Jackson is a significant moment in history,” said Holness.

“His indelible efforts greatly assisted in ensuring that kindness, justice, equality and humanity prevailed in instances where they had been forgotten virtues. I pass on my most sincere condolences to Reverend Jackson’s family, friends and well-wishers who are now grieving his immense loss. I have no doubt his lifetime of work will be remembered and honoured for many decades to come.”

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