A Prophet for Justice: Honoring the Life and Legacy of the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.
February 20, 2026
Washington, D.C. — United Women in Faith, the General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR), and the General Board of Church and Society (GBCS) join the people of The United Methodist Church and communities across the nation and around the world in mourning the passing of the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., a towering leader in the struggle for civil rights and human dignity.
For decades, the Reverend Jackson stood at the forefront of movements that called this country to live more fully into its promises. As a close colleague of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., he carried forward the vision of the Beloved Community, founding the Rainbow Coalition and using his persistent public witness to challenge systems of racism, poverty, voter suppression, and economic injustice.
In his 1988 Democratic National Convention Address, Reverend Jackson reminded the nation, “Our dreams must be stronger than our memories.” In moments of uncertainty and division, he called communities not to retreat into fear, but to press forward with courage, faith, and hope.
For the Church, his life stands as a reminder that justice is not peripheral to the Gospel — it is central to it. His ministry embodied the conviction that every person bears the image of God and is worthy of dignity, protection, and opportunity to flourish.
“Reverend Jesse Jackson reminded both the nation and the Church that faith without justice is incomplete. His life and ministry continue to shape and inspire GCORR’s work as we confront racism and call the Church toward equity and beloved community. He embodied a Gospel that challenges systems of injustice while affirming the sacred worth of every person. As United Methodists, we are called to carry that witness forward — not only in word, but in courageous action.”
— Reverend Dr. Giovanni Arroyo, General Secretary, General Commission on Religion and Race
“Reverend Jesse Jackson was a champion for the people. He spoke up for the oppressed and the overlooked. He brought people into a movement for peace and love. In this moment when we face threats to justice, his legacy gives us hope and guidance to speak out for what is right. His relentless advocacy for social justice and civil rights inspires us all. From his leadership in the civil rights movement, to his foundation of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, to his political influence, he worked relentlessly to build a better future for everyone. He will be remembered as a steadfast example of Christ’s love. United Women in Faith mourns his passing and is holding the Jackson family in our hearts.”
— Sally Vonner, General Secretary and CEO, United Women in Faith
"Reverend Jesse Jackson was a global change agent, a prophetic voice and visionary. He was a charismatic preacher who added theological substance to phrases that have encouraged and uplifted millions of people. From “Keep Hope Alive” to “I Am Somebody“ Black children and all people historically oppressed and discounted, found in Reverend Jackson a champion for beloved community and a progressive compassionate democracy. From my high school years in Chicago throughout four decades of ministry, I learned and was impacted by his incredible long-lasting social justice leadership and witness.”
— Bishop Julius C. Trimble, General Secretary, The General Board of Church and Society.
As we give thanks for Reverend Jackson’s life, we recommit ourselves to the work he advanced: dismantling systemic racism, protecting voting rights, expanding opportunity, and building communities grounded in justice and love. We hold the Jackson family and all who labored alongside him in our prayers, trusting that his legacy will continue to guide and strengthen the work ahead.
Media Contact (for GCORR):
Jeehye Kim
Senior Director of Communications and Marketing
General Commission on Religion and Race
jpak@gcorr.org