Tribute to Jesse Jackson

Tribute to Jesse Jackson

By Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda,
President, African Regional Council of Women (ARCW).

Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson Sr. stands as one of the most influential voices in the global struggle for Black dignity, justice, and political inclusion. He was not only an American civil rights icon, but a bridge between African-Americans and Africans on the continent — a living symbol of shared history, shared pain, and shared hope.

Emerging from the movement shaped by Martin Luther King Jr., Reverend Jackson transformed moral protest into political possibility. Through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and his historic presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, he broke psychological and political barriers that many believed were insurmountable.

Though he did not occupy the White House, he made it conceivable for a Black candidate to do so.

His courageous efforts helped lay the foundation for the emergence of Barack Obama. When America elected its first Black president in 2008, it reflected decades of sacrifice and persistent advocacy by pioneers like Jackson.

Standing beside President Obama was Michelle Obama, a Black woman serving as First Lady , a powerful affirmation that barriers can indeed be broken.

Beyond America, Reverend Jackson was a consistent voice against apartheid in South Africa. He supported international pressure against the racist regime and stood in solidarity with leaders such as Dr. Nelson Mandela. His global advocacy strengthened the moral call that ultimately ushered in a democratic South Africa in 1994.

For Africans across the continent, Jesse Jackson represented a son of Africa in the diaspora who never forgot his ancestral roots. He affirmed that the liberation of African-Americans and the advancement of Africa are interconnected struggles.

On behalf of the African Regional Council of Women (ARCW), I call on African leaders in every nation to emulate the selfless leadership virtues demonstrated by Reverend Jackson, courage, integrity, inclusiveness, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Our leaders must reject all forms of injustice, insecurity, corruption, and social inequity, and instead dedicate themselves to building societies grounded in fairness, peace, and opportunity for all.

Reverend Jesse Jackson’s life reminds us that leadership is not about personal gain, but about expanding hope for the oppressed and dignity for the marginalized.
His legacy challenges Africa, and the world, to lead better, to act justly, and to never abandon the struggle for freedom.

Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda is also a Board Member of the International Council of Women, ICW