Forum honoring Rev. Jesse Jackson held at Rainbow PUSH headquarters
For the first time since the death of Rev. Jesse Jackson, his Rainbow PUSH Coalition held its weekly forum.
Leaders from across Chicago gathered at the forum with messages as they continue Jackson's legacy
Saturday morning's program here at Rainbow PUSH headquarters was powerful and emotional. Chicagoans from all backgrounds made it their mission to come, thank Jackson Sr., and leave with empowerment to "keep hope alive."
Jackson founded the coalition where hundreds gathered for the first time without their leader.
"For me, Rev. Jackson has always been like a real part of my life," said David Cherry.
"When I was young, I used to run around this place as a child," said Jahlil Porter.
Cherry and Porter came out to not only remember Jackson's legacy, but to discuss how to live out his vision, to "keep hope alive," without the civil rights icon.
"We have to continue to support our young people and stand with them and support them because that's what Rev. Jackson did in his life," Cherry said.
"He wasn't just in the movement; that man was the movement," said Rev. Stephen Thurston II.
Faith leaders across Chicago took a few minutes each to reflect on what Jackson Sr. did for minority communities.
"Some of the places he took me I never dreamed that a man of color would be able to do," said Apostle Carl White.
"Do you think the reverend had any idea that the rainbow would also be used as a symbol for the queer community?" said Rev. Dr. Beth Brown.
But now they say it's time to navigate the future without him.
"He showed us faith is not just something you practice in the church, but it's something you live out in the streets," said Dr. Lajuan Whitfield.
To carry forward the cause he built, one rooted in hope and the fight for social justice.
"We are going to stand up. Would you stand up for the cause? Would you stand up for hope? Keep hope alive!" said Dr. Phalese Binion.
Rev. Jackson will lie in state at Rainbow PUSH headquarters on Thursday and Friday next week. That's when anyone can come and pay their respects.
As the family prepares for Jackson's celebration of life services next week, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson denied a request for Jackson to lie in honor at the U.S. Capitol building, according to sources.
Sources said the request was made by the Jackson family, but was denied based on past precedent and was not political.
A representative for the Jackson family declined to comment on the decision, but said the family "is reviewing its options" on how the late civil rights leader will be remembered in Washington, D.C.