We continue to get reaction to the death of Reverend Jesse Jackson. The iconic figure in our nation’s civil rights movement passed away yesterday at the age of 84. The founder and president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and two-time Presidential candidate advocated for the poor and called for an open and equitable society. Louisiana’s Sixth District Congressman Cleo Fields says Reverend Jackson made several trips to Louisiana.
“I remember taking him to Capitol High School on a visit, and just the electricity in the room
when he would deliver ‘I Am Somebody’ speeches was just remarkable,” Fields recalled.
Jackson was known for his “I Am Somebody” speeches, which became a rallying cry for poor children. In 2005, he spoke on the steps of the state capitol in a rally to rebuild Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina hit. He called on state lawmakers to help displaced working families and called for the rebuilding of black neighborhoods. Fields says Reverend Jackson had the ability to galvanize people.
“Jackson was one who could go into a place and just bring out the best in people, get them inspired, get them excited about politics,” Fields said.
Fields says he worked on Reverend Jackson’s Presidential campaigns in the 1980s. Fields would travel the country and organized voter registration drives. He remembers one conversation in particular he had with Reverend Jackson.
“Why are folks so apathetic about voting? And he said, ‘There are no apathetic voters, they’re only uninspired voters, and it’s our job to inspire them.’ And that left a lasting impression on me,” Fields said.
Congressman Troy Carter’s statement on the passing of Jesse Jackson.
“Today, we mourn the passing of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., a leader among leaders whose life helped bend the moral arc of our nation toward justice. Reverend Jackson was a towering figure in the civil rights movement, a champion for the poor and the marginalized, and a relentless advocate for voting rights, economic fairness, and human dignity.
“For me, this loss is deeply personal. As a young man serving as a staffer to then Mayor Sidney Barthelemy, I had the honor of meeting Reverend Jackson for the first time. His mere presence was commanding, but it was his compassion and clarity of purpose that left the greatest impression. He took time to encourage young leaders, and I was one of the many who benefited from his mentorship. Over the years, he encouraged me in every step of my political career, offering wisdom, affirmation, and the steady reminder that public service is a calling rooted in justice and love for community.
“From marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., to building Operation PUSH and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, to his historic presidential campaigns that expanded participation in our democracy, Reverend Jackson inspired generations to believe that their voices mattered. He did not just speak about hope. He organized it. He mobilized it. He demanded it.
“Reverend Jackson’s life reminds us that leadership is not about position. It is about purpose. It is about lifting others as you climb and refusing to accept injustice as inevitable. He mentored millions across this nation and around the world, challenging us to stand taller, speak louder, and never give up on the promise of America.
“As we honor his extraordinary legacy, may we recommit ourselves to the work he began and carried forward with faith and courage. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and to all who were touched by his life of service.
“His voice may be stilled, but his message endures.”