Joe Biden and Kamala Harris honor ‘tenacious’ civil rights leader Jesse Jackson

WASHINGTON, DC: Former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris paid tribute on Tuesday, February 17, following the death of the Reverend Jesse Jackson at age 84. In separate statements shared on social media, both leaders reflected on Jackson’s decades-long role in the civil rights movement and his influence on American political life.

Biden described Jackson as a “man of God and of the people,” crediting him with pushing the nation to confront its conscience during moments of national upheaval. Harris called him “one of America’s greatest patriots,” saying he dedicated his life to expanding opportunity and political participation for marginalized communities. 

Insistence on what is right

Biden highlighted Jackson’s enduring dedication to civil rights and economic justice. He described the late leader as “determined and tenacious,” noting that Jackson’s advocacy has shaped discussions about equality for generations.

The former president shared that he witnessed firsthand how Jackson utilized both public advocacy and behind-the-scenes efforts to influence policy and public opinion. From appearances on the campaign trail to community organizing, Biden stated that Jackson consistently urged the nation to uphold its founding ideals.

He expressed gratitude to Jackson for what he referred to as a lifetime of service and leadership.

Widening path for future generations

Harris reflected on Jackson’s early activism, tracing his rise from Greenville, South Carolina, to national prominence during the Civil Rights Movement. She noted that his presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 mobilized millions of voters and reshaped the Democratic primary electorate.

Harris shared that as a law student, she displayed a “Jesse Jackson for President” bumper sticker, recalling the encouragement she received from strangers who recognized the campaign. She credited Jackson with broadening political participation and demonstrating that national leadership was attainable for historically excluded communities.

Selfless leader and tireless mentor

Both Biden and Harris highlighted Jackson’s personal mentorship and community leadership. Harris noted spending time with him earlier this year and described him as a leader committed to uplifting working families.

They also recognized his leadership of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which he founded to advance civil rights and voter engagement. Both extended condolences to his wife, Jacqueline, their children and grandchildren, and supporters who worked alongside him for decades.

Redeeming the American soul forever

The tributes concluded with a pledge to continue the work Jackson championed. Biden said the country has not always fulfilled its promise of equality but credited Jackson with ensuring that the pursuit of justice remained central to the national conversation.

Harris reiterated Jackson’s long-standing call to “Keep hope alive,” describing it as a message that continues to resonate across generations. As plans move forward for public observances in Chicago, their statements underscored Jackson’s enduring role in shaping modern civil rights advocacy and political engagement.