I was deeply touched by the loss of Reverend and Brother Jesse Louis Jackson Sr. While the world honors one of the last great civil rights icons and a global drum major for justice, I remember him as a friend and a gift to humanity.
I first met Reverend Jackson as a student at Rust College and later again in Chicago at the African World Festival. Like many, I initially saw him as the man from the iconic photograph with Martin Luther King Jr. at the Lorraine Motel and as a presidential candidate. I was also proud to call him my fraternity brother in Omega Psi Phi. But beyond his public image, he made me feel seen. When I told him I was a teacher, he thanked me and reminded me that I had the power to shape young minds. He told me I was somebody—and so were my students. Those words stayed with me.
Over the years, I had multiple opportunities to engage with Brother Jackson. I was always struck by his energy and his commitment to helping the underserved. During the unrest in Kenosha following the shooting of Jacob Blake, he came without hesitation—even amid the COVID-19 pandemic and his own health challenges. He marched alongside the Blake family and local leaders, returning again and again until peace was restored. He also supported the rebuilding effort—Kenosha Strong.
One of my most memorable experiences came after a long day of marching. Brother Jackson turned to me and said, “I am hungry. Do y’all have a Cracker Barrel!” We ended up at Cracker Barrel a few minutes away, where for two hours he shared wisdom with Rashawn Jackson and I like a father with his sons. We talked about education, politics, and the ongoing struggle for justice. More importantly, he showed genuine concern for us personally. In that moment, I realized we were receiving a masterclass from a giant—one who had walked with kings yet never lost the common touch.
Later, I joined him at Operation Rainbow PUSH alongside other Omega brothers. He was gracious, humble, and generous—taking time to personally sign books and connect with each of us. I also stood with him at a press conference supporting the family of Jelani Day and helped distribute food to those in need. I was even honored to attend and photograph his 82nd birthday celebration.
His passing hit differently because of these personal encounters. I attended his memorial with Omega men from around the world and later his homegoing service, where leaders, celebrities, and everyday people gathered to honor his legacy. Yet no one present matched the significance of the man we came to celebrate.
Reverend Jackson inspired millions—especially African Americans—to believe in possibilities beyond their circumstances. His message, “Keep Hope Alive,” remains as powerful today as ever. His words—“You are somebody”—planted seeds of dignity and self-worth in countless lives, including mine. Coming from humble beginnings in Mississippi, I understood deeply what he meant when he said during his Presidential speech that, “You may have born in the slums, but the slums were not born in you!” Those words not only inspired and told every poor person that you can rise above your circumstances.
While common for people to express their admiration after one’s death, it is better to give people their flowers while they are living…and Minister Farrakhan did just that! One of the most impactful, heartfelt, meaningful and beautiful tributes was given in life during a face to face meeting between Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson and Minister Louis Farrakhan. The meeting and words exchanged between these two Great Omega men, who ‘in their youth’ gave their lives to fight injustice and uplift our people met in the twilight dim of their later years to express their love and admiration for each other…from one brother to another. Their bravery and courage will forever link them and uplift them to someday sit together again at the table with the most High!
Beyond speeches and marches, Brother Jackson acted. Brother Jackson, Minister Farrakhan, and other members of the Interfaith Delegation helped secure the release of captured U.S. servicemen, including Lt. Robert Goodman and soldiers held in Yugoslavia.
His greatness and his global impact cannot be minimized. He was a truly man who walked with kings and never lost the common touch!
From one country boy to another, his life represents resilience, faith, and purpose. If you remember nothing else about Reverend Jesse Jackson, remember his words: You are somebody. Keep hope alive. Never give up. Keep the faith! Faith never disappoints! YOU CAN MAKE IT!
I will miss my friend.
May God be pleased with his service!
