United Women in Faith, the General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR), and the General Board of Church and Society (GBCS) join the people of The United Methodist Church and
communities across the nation and around the world in mourning the passing
of the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., a towering leader in the struggle
for civil rights and human dignity.
For decades, the Reverend Jackson stood at the forefront of movements that
called this country to live more fully into its promises. As a close
colleague of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., he carried forward the
vision of the Beloved Community, founding the Rainbow Coalition and using
his persistent public witness to challenge systems of racism, poverty,
voter suppression, and economic injustice.
In his 1988 Democratic National Convention Address, Reverend Jackson
reminded the nation, “Our dreams must be stronger than our memories.”
In moments of uncertainty and division, he called communities not to
retreat into fear, but to press forward with courage, faith, and hope.
For the Church, his life stands as a reminder that justice is not
peripheral to the Gospel — it is central to it. His ministry embodied the
conviction that every person bears the image of God and is worthy of
dignity, protection, and opportunity to flourish.
“Reverend Jesse Jackson reminded both the nation and the Church that
faith without justice is incomplete. His life and ministry continue to
shape and inspire GCORR’s work as we confront racism and call the Church
toward equity and beloved community. He embodied a Gospel that challenges
systems of injustice while affirming the sacred worth of every person. As
United Methodists, we are called to carry that witness forward — not only
in word, but in courageous action.”
— Reverend Dr. Giovanni Arroyo, General Secretary, General Commission on
Religion and Race
“Reverend Jesse Jackson was a champion for the people. He spoke up for
the oppressed and the overlooked. He brought people into a movement for
peace and love. In this moment when we face threats to justice, his legacy
gives us hope and guidance to speak out for what is right. His relentless
advocacy for social justice and civil rights inspires us all. From his
leadership in the civil rights movement, to his foundation of the Rainbow
PUSH Coalition, to his political influence, he worked relentlessly to build
a better future for everyone. He will be remembered as a steadfast example
of Christ’s love. United Women in Faith mourns his passing and is holding
the Jackson family in our hearts.”
— Sally Vonner, General Secretary and CEO, United Women in Faith
“Reverend Jesse Jackson was a global change agent, a prophetic voice and
visionary. He was a charismatic preacher who added theological substance to
phrases that have encouraged and uplifted millions of people. From “Keep
Hope Alive” to “I Am Somebody“ Black children and all people
historically oppressed and discounted, found in Reverend Jackson a champion
for beloved community and a progressive compassionate democracy. From my
high school years in Chicago throughout four decades of ministry, I learned
and was impacted by his incredible long-lasting social justice leadership
and witness.”
— Bishop Julius C. Trimble, General Secretary, The General Board of
Church and Society.
As we give thanks for Reverend Jackson’s life, we recommit ourselves to
the work he advanced: dismantling systemic racism, protecting voting
rights, expanding opportunity, and building communities grounded in justice
and love. We hold the Jackson family and all who labored alongside him in
our prayers, trusting that his legacy will continue to guide and strengthen
the work ahead.
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