MI Leaders Mourn Death Of Rev. Jesse Jackson

Leaders across Michigan remembered Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, who died Tuesday at age 84, as a civil rights leader with special and deep ties to the state.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Jackson had a special connection to Michigan, especially with the city of Detroit.

"He visited often, standing with labor, working with local leaders, and inspiring the next generation of changemakers," Whitmer said. "As we heed Rev. Jackson’s tireless call to ‘Keep hope alive,’ let’s also continue to do the hard work of building a freer, fairer Michigan for all."

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist called Jackson a "once-in-a-lifetime leader."

"He fought tirelessly for these values with purpose and vision as part of the civil rights movement in America and against persecution across the globe throughout his entire career," Gilchrist said. "He loved Michigan, spending time in our communities and with our people."

Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Ann Arbor, said she is heartbroken by Jackson's death.

"For more than fifty years, our family has known and worked alongside him and his family in the long struggle for justice and equality," Dingell said. "John stood with him in the 1960s, when both were young men marching in the streets and organizing in communities to advance civil rights and human dignity. They shared a belief that America could — and must — live up to its promise."

She added, "In Detroit and across the country, Reverend Jackson was a tireless advocate for working families, for minorities, and for those fighting for economic justice. He never stopped believing in the power of grassroots organizing and the strength of community. His voice helped shape a generation of leaders and inspired countless people to demand fairness, opportunity, and respect."

Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, offered his condolences to Jackson's family.

"My prayers to the Jackson family and all who mourn Rev. Jesse Jackson today," he said on social media. "As Christians, we take comfort in the sure promise of Scripture: ‘Absent from the body… present with the Lord’ (2 Corinthians 5:8). May the God of all comfort surround you with His peace, strength, and the hope of eternal life in Christ Jesus."

Rep. Shri Thanedar, D-Detroit, said he was "deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson.

"I am praying for the Jackson family during this difficult time, and for my colleague @rep_jackson as he mourns the loss of his father," Thanedar said on social media. "May they find strength, comfort, and peace in the days ahead."

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield said Detroit held a special place in Rev. Jackson's heart.

"His tireless push for supplier diversity and equity in the Auto Industry ensured that Black-owned businesses and minority entrepreneurs had a real seat at the table in one of America's most powerful industries," Sheffield said. "He understood that economic justice and civil rights were inseparable, and Detroit felt that work directly, in our businesses, in our communities, and in the opportunities created for generations of families who called this city home."