Trending Now - Former Presidents Honor Rev. Jesse Jackson at Memorial Service

WHO:

Rev. Jesse Jackson, civil rights leader

President Barack Obama, former U.S. President

Kamala Harris, former presidential candidate

Judge Greg Mathis, television personality and former judge

Isiah Thomas, NBA Hall of Famer

Yusef Jackson, Jesse Jackson's son

Rainbow PUSH Coalition, nonprofit organization founded by Jesse Jackson

WHAT:

A memorial service was held for Rev. Jesse Jackson on March 6, 2026.

Attendees included three former U.S. presidents and numerous high-profile figures.

The crowd chanted Jackson's famous phrase, "I am! Somebody!"

Yusef Jackson quoted his father, saying, "I intend to die with my shoes on."

Kamala Harris commented on the Trump administration, stating, "I'm not into saying 'I told you so,' but we did see it coming."

Judge Greg Mathis shared how Jackson's words changed his life 50 years ago.

WHERE:

The memorial service took place at the House of Hope megachurch, located on Chicago's South Side.

WHEN:

The memorial service occurred on March 6, 2026.

Judge Greg Mathis referenced hearing Jackson's impactful words 50 years ago in March 1976.

WHY:

The memorial service was held to honor Jesse Jackson's contributions as a civil rights leader and mentor.

Speakers emphasized Jackson's message of hope and social change.

HOW:

The service featured speeches from family members and notable figures who shared personal anecdotes and reflections on Jackson's impact.

A memorial service honoring civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson was held yesterday at the House of Hope megachurch on Chicago's South Side, drawing a crowd that included three former U.S. presidents and many high-profile figures. Attendees chanted Jackson's famous phrase, "I am! Somebody!" as speakers like Kamala Harris and Judge Greg Mathis shared personal stories about how Jackson's message of hope and social change influenced their lives. Yusef Jackson, reflecting on his father's legacy, quoted him saying, "I intend to die with my shoes on," highlighting the enduring impact of Jackson's work.