CHICAGO, IL (February 17, 2026) — Civil rights leader and minister Jesse Louis Jackson Sr. died Tuesday morning, his family said in a statement posted on his official Instagram account. He was 84.
In the posts on Instagram, the family described Jackson as a devoted advocate for justice and equality whose influence extended far beyond his immediate circle.
“Our father was a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” the family wrote. “We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by.”
The family’s Instagram posts confirmed that Jackson died peacefully surrounded by loved ones. They did not disclose a cause of death.
Jackson rose to national prominence as a Baptist minister and civil rights activist. He began his leadership career in the 1960s as a protege of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., taking part in major civil rights campaigns and later founding Operation PUSH and the Rainbow Coalition, which focused on economic and social justice.
He also made history as a two-time Democratic presidential candidate in the 1980s, becoming one of the first African Americans to mount widespread campaigns for the nation’s highest office.
Jackson is survived by his wife and children.
UPDATE: New York Governor Kathy Hochul Statement on the Passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson
Kathy Hochul directed that flags across New York state be lowered to half-staff on Wednesday, Feb. 18, in honor of the life and public service of the Rev. Jesse Jackson, who died Tuesday at age 84.
“Reverend Jesse Jackson’s life was defined by courage and conviction. From Selma to the national stage, he stood tall against racial injustice,” Hochul said, adding that she joined New Yorkers in honoring his legacy and extending condolences to his family.
UPDATE: Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins Statement on the Passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson
“We mourn Rev. Jesse Jackson, a man who remained steadfast in his belief in building common ground. His call to “Keep Hope Alive” was more than a slogan; it was a moral directive. He demanded dignity and respect for those too often denied both, and he carried a progressive vision that pushed the nation to confront its conscience.
“His life’s work challenged America to be better, braver, and more inclusive, and that legacy will endure for years to come.”
This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.