Brooklyn, NY – “The Reverend Jesse Jackson was one of the greatest architects of modern Black political power in American history.

My mother was born in 1942, just one year after Rev. Jackson. By the time I was a child, he was already a household name in Black America. His leadership, his courage, and his faith shaped not only a nation, but generations – including mine.

Through Operation PUSH, he demonstrated that economic justice required organized action. Through his historic presidential campaigns, he expanded democracy and proved that Black leadership belonged at every level of American government. Through his global advocacy, he connected our local struggle for justice to movements for freedom around the world.

His work helped lay the foundation for expanded voting rights, greater economic opportunity, and the diverse leadership we see across this country today.

As a legislator, I know that the opportunity I have to serve is part of the legacy he helped build.

Ubuntu, a principle rooted in our African heritage, teaches us: ‘I am because you are.’ Reverend Jackson’s life reminds us of another truth – we are because he was.

His legacy lives on in every effort to advance justice, expand democracy, and serve the people with courage and conviction.

We honor his life. We honor his work. And we accept the responsibility to continue the journey he helped chart.

May he rest in eternal power.”