Jesse Jackson’s Legacy, and How the Fight for Equality Inspires the Pulitzer Center’s Work
Posted by Pulitzer Center on March 3, 2026
Tributes continue to pour in after the death of Rev. Jesse Jackson, a protégé of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. who became one of the most influential civil rights and political figures in American history.
Jackson, 84, died early Tuesday, February 17, at home in Chicago, surrounded by family, according to reports by the Associated Press and other media outlets. For years, he suffered a rare neurological disorder, the AP says.
With his booming voice, inspiring “keep hope alive” mantra, and tireless work for equality and justice, Jackson was at the forefront of the civil rights movement for decades after King’s assassination in 1968. (He was standing with King on a Memphis hotel balcony when the civil rights icon was fatally shot.)
Since its founding 20 years ago, the Pulitzer Center supported reporting that shined a spotlight on racial justice and human rights, issues that Jackson championed. In addition, the Center is an education partner of The 1619 Project, the landmark series led by New York Times journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones that illuminates the legacy of slavery and highlights the contributions of Black Americans to every aspect of American society.
More in "New Resources"
- School Meals as a Strategy to Prevent Childhood Obesity and Advance Food Equity: A Narrative Review
- Economic Security Polices That Support Families Generate Positive Impacts
- A Decade of ERPO: What Does the Evidence Say About the Use, Effectiveness and Opportunities for Improving Implementation and Impact of this Important Firearm Violence Prevention Tool
Stay Current in Philly's Higher Education and Nonprofit Sector
We compile a weekly email with local events, resources, national conferences, calls for proposals, grant, volunteer and job opportunities in the higher education and nonprofit sectors.
Subscribe