By Belize Live News Staff: The death of Reverend Jesse Jackson at age 84 marks the passing of a civil rights giant whose influence reached far beyond the United States.
For many Belizeans who followed the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, Jackson was a familiar and powerful voice advocating fairness, opportunity and dignity for marginalized communities.
After working alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson launched Operation PUSH and later the Rainbow Coalition, both aimed at expanding economic and political opportunities for Black Americans and other minority groups.
He later entered national politics, making two historic bids for the U.S. presidency and becoming one of the first Black candidates to mount a serious campaign for the White House.
Throughout his life, Jackson blended activism with ministry, often preaching messages of empowerment and unity.
His life story — rising from humble beginnings in the Jim Crow South to international prominence — stands as a testament to perseverance and the ongoing fight for justice.
