Hundreds of Chicago residents braved the February cold this week to honor the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, the influential civil rights leader who died at 84. Wrapped in heavy coats and winter boots, mourners formed a long line outside the headquarters of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition on the city’s South Side, where Jackson lay in repose.
Jackson, a longtime Chicago figure and national political voice, founded Rainbow PUSH in 1971, using the organization to advocate for economic justice, voting rights, and corporate accountability. His passing marks the end of an era for many in the civil rights movement.
“He was just a hell of a man,” said Gwendolyn Meeks, 70, as she waited behind barricades to pay her respects. Many in line wore memorabilia from Jackson’s historic 1988 presidential campaign or carried flowers and small American flags.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson visited early in the day, while the Rev. Al Sharpton greeted mourners outside. Jesse Jackson Jr. thanked the crowd, telling supporters his father “would have loved to see every single one of you.”
For longtime volunteers and supporters, the steady turnout underscored Jackson’s enduring influence — not only as a national figure but as a deeply personal presence in Chicago’s civic life.