The Democratic National Convention is witnessing significant changes, including a generational shift in leadership. This week, President Biden is effectively transferring control of the party and the 2024 presidential nomination to Vice President Kamala Harris, marking a noteworthy change as he, at 81 years old, steps back for his 59-year-old protégé.
On Sunday night, in a smaller venue, progressive party members gathered to honor the Rev. Jesse Jackson, who has played a pivotal role in civil rights and economic equality. At 82, Jackson, who is living with Parkinson’s disease, had previously appeared fragile when he officially stepped down as president of the organization he founded in the 1970s, known as People United to Save Humanity (PUSH).
Wheeling himself onto the stage, Jackson absorbed the admiration of several hundred attendees at the Rainbow PUSH headquarters. For over three hours, people lined up to express their gratitude, crediting Jackson for inspiring their careers. Prominent figures such as Sen. Bernie Sanders, Rep. Maxine Waters, and the Rev. Al Sharpton emphasized Jackson’s influence as a pioneering Black presidential candidate in 1984 and 1988, paving the way for future leaders like Harris.
Rep. Pramila Jayapal remarked that her political journey might not have been possible without Jackson’s impact, stating, “He made sure that every single person had a place to stand. Everybody was somebody.” She highlighted the diverse groups Jackson welcomed into his organization and reinforced the connection between civil rights and economic justice. Jayapal concluded with a powerful tribute: “We stand on your shoulders, Rev. Jesse Jackson.”
The event, sponsored by The Nation magazine, featured heartfelt acknowledgments of Jackson’s lifelong commitment to peace and social justice. Many speakers, including Rep. Ro Khanna, recalled how Jackson’s passionate speeches at the Democratic conventions had inspired them to pursue public service.
Khanna reminisced about Jackson’s determination in 1988, asserting he would rather face significant global challenges than remain comfortably in the background. That year, Jackson secured more delegates than all candidates except Michael Dukakis, the Democratic nominee.
Jackson’s speeches were marked by his powerful oratory style, a blend of rhythm and cadence derived from his Baptist preacher roots. In a memorable address at the 1988 convention, he expressed his desire for greater challenges and called for resilience, culminating in his iconic rallying cry, “Keep hope alive!”
Sharpton celebrated Jackson’s legacy, noting his journey from the Deep South to global leadership and acknowledging his role in shaping the language of progressivism for Black leaders. Despite Jackson’s physical limitations, Sharpton passionately declared, “Every time a Black opens their mouth and talks about hypocrisy, Jesse Jackson is talking!”
After the event, as the crowd thinned, there was anticipation for Jackson to speak, but his aides soon wheeled him away into the night. The following day, Jackson made a brief appearance at the Democratic National Convention, greeting the crowd with a wave and a smile, showcasing his enduring legacy within the party.