Leicester is mourning the loss of Reverend Jesse Jackson, the American civil rights leader and global advocate for justice and equality, who passed away peacefully this morning (Tuesday, February 17) at the age of 84.
His 2013 visit to the city left a lasting impression that continues to inspire local communities.
The Jessie Jackson Park in Rushey Mead, named in his honour, stands as a living testament to his legacy. Unlike a traditional memorial, the park features a civil rights walk around its perimeter, highlighting the milestones of the civil rights movement. Visitors can trace Jackson’s extraordinary journey – from a boy denied access to books in private libraries because of his race, to a man celebrated by presidents and prime ministers across the world.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
“Young people, especially in Rushey Mead, can go to Jessie Jackson Park and walk the walk,” said local organisers. “They can learn how someone from humble beginnings can challenge injustice, overcome barriers, and inspire change worldwide.”
Community figures have paid heartfelt tribute. Mel Thomas, a former Leicestershire police officer was fortunate to have met him at a celebration event.
“It was an honour and privilege to be in his company – a man who affected civil rights around the world and stood true to his beliefs,” he said.
“He’s left an endurable legacy. History will remember him.”
Picture credit: Mel Thomas
Suleman Nagdi, who received a Community Cohesion Award from the Jesse Jackson Foundation in 2024, said: “Reverend Jackson’s passing is a profound loss. His steadfast leadership, moral courage, and compassion for humanity continue to inspire people across the world to champion fairness and understanding. Receiving recognition from his foundation remains one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.”
Former MP Keith Vaz added: “I was in tears when I heard the news. Reverend Jesse Jackson is the kind of person who seemed like he would live forever, despite the challenges he faced. The word ‘icon’ is overused, but in his case, it is entirely fitting. A man of extraordinary courage, compassion, and moral leadership – we will never forget his speeches, his work, and his devotion to justice.”
Jackson’s impact was felt far beyond Leicester. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, he became a close associate of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., participating in key civil rights campaigns of the 1960s. He founded Operation PUSH and the Rainbow Coalition, later merged into the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, promoting economic empowerment, voting rights, and education for marginalised communities.
He also made history as the first African American to mount credible campaigns for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, paving the way for future political leaders. His advocacy extended globally, earning respect and admiration from communities and leaders across the world.
In Leicester, his memory lives on in the park and the civil rights walk – a place where young people can literally follow in his footsteps, learning lessons of resilience, justice, and the enduring fight for equality.
