MARYLAND – The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights mourns the passing of the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., a towering figure in the American civil rights movement and one of the most influential moral leaders of our time.
Rev. Jackson devoted his life to the pursuit of justice, equity, and human dignity. As
a protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and later as a leader in his own right, he
carried forward the unfinished work of the movement, challenging systems of
inequality, amplifying the voices of the marginalized, and demanding that America
live up to its highest ideals.
From the founding of Operation PUSH and the Rainbow Coalition to his advocacy
for voting rights, economic empowerment, fair housing, and international human
rights, Rev. Jackson’s impact transcends generations. He taught us that civil rights is
not a chapter in history, but a continuous call to action.
Rev. Jackson reminded the nation that progress is not inevitable, it must be fought
for, protected, and expanded. His voice was prophetic, his presence commanding,
and his commitment unwavering. He believed deeply in the power of collective
struggle and in the sacred worth of every human being.
At MCCR, we honor his legacy by recommitting ourselves to the work he
championed – ensuring fairness in housing, employment, education, and public
accommodations, and standing firmly against discrimination in all its forms.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Jackson family and to all who were
inspired by his life and leadership. May we continue to be guided by his example, his
courage, and his enduring call for justice.
Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. showed us how to bend the arc toward justice. It is now
our responsibility to keep bending it.
Cleveland L. Horton II, Executive Director
I want to add that violating other peoples civil rights like women means something to me here in Maryland. I speak to the men in authority allowing crimes to happen to women and children in this state while protecting the abuser’s, in some counties adding to the humiliations and abuses to the victim for fun. The Bay Net news stirs the counties for reactions from the public with false information that is not fixed or redacted. At least I still have my freedom of speech.