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Former presidents, artists honor Jesse Jackson in Chicago

PUBLISHED Mar 6, 2026, 12:27 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 9

Center 100%

Sources: 9

Chicago. Three former U.S. presidents, Grammy-winning artists, clergy and elected officials attended a celebration of life Friday for the late Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition organized the service at a Black church venue with a 10,000-seat arena following earlier memorials in South Carolina and Chicago. Former Presidents Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Bill Clinton and former Vice President Kamala Harris addressed attendees; gospel singer BeBe Winans performed. Speakers praised Jackson's civil rights leadership and political campaigns, and Obama highlighted Jackson's role expanding democratic participation while referencing contemporary political divisions. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Faro B. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Jesse Jackson Sr.'s death prompted memorial planning and public statements.
Memorial services were held in South Carolina where he was born.
Rainbow PUSH Coalition scheduled a large Chicago celebration of life at a 10,000-seat venue.
Former Presidents Obama, Biden and Clinton and former Vice President Harris attended and spoke.
Speakers and performers, including BeBe Winans, paid tribute and emphasized Jackson's civil-rights legacy.

News Intelligence

Jesse Jackson Sr.'s legacy is a reminder of the power of civic engagement. His work expanded democratic participation, which impacts us all. If you're feeling inspired, consider volunteering or donating to a local civil rights organization.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 9
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Attendance by former presidents and high-profile figures drew national attention, providing renewed visibility to civil-rights organizations and community leaders associated with Jesse Jackson.

Who Impacted

Family members and communities mourning Jesse Jackson continued to experience loss; some political figures faced public critique in remarks referencing current divisions.