‘Keep hope alive’: Richmond leaders react to the death of political leader and civil rights icon Rev. Jesse Jackson

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Reactions to Reverend Jesse Jackson’s death are pouring in from Richmond leaders.

Rev. Jesse Jackson, the civil rights leader, Baptist minister and pioneering politician, died on Tuesday morning at the age of 84, his family said in a statement.

For more than five decades, Jackson dedicated his life to the civil rights movement. He rose to prominence in the 1960s alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. During some of America’s most turbulent times, Jackson became a figure of hope.

“I got interested in politics, and government right around the time that he ran for president,” said Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.). “I remember conversations with my parents who grew up in the Jim Crow South about what a big deal it was that he not only was running for president but was a credible candidate.”

McClellan said stories of his work also inspired other African Americans to pursue careers in legislation.

“The number of people that he brought into the political and government arena who never saw themselves or anyone who looked like them reflected in those positions,” McClellan said.

Sen. Mike Jones (D-15 district) said Jackson’s role as a civil rights activist and reverend had a huge influence on him.

“I met Jesse Jackson back in 1988 when I was in college at the University of Colorado,” Jones said. “He was a fabulous orator that was able to break down matters of faith and justice in a clear and concise way.”

Each political leader gave their response to what the world could learn from Jackson’s legacy.

“We should seek to live out his legacy every single day. That's the goal. How do we fight for those who can't fight for themselves?" Jones said.

“Stay rooted in hope and love and don't let anger and resentment or bitterness overtake you when you suffer setbacks,” McClellan said.