02/17/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 17, 2026
Media Contact
Florida Civil Rights Association
[email protected]
Florida Civil Rights Association Mourns Rev. Jesse Jackson and Calls for Renewed Commitment to Democracy and Human Rights Worldwide
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Civil Rights Association (FCRA) today issued an impassioned call to action following the passing of civil rights icon Jesse Jackson, urging Americans to honor his legacy by strengthening democracy and defending civil and human rights at home and abroad.
Rev. Jackson, who stood alongside Martin Luther King Jr. during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, dedicated his life to expanding voting rights, economic opportunity and social justice. From founding Operation PUSH and the Rainbow Coalition to his historic campaigns for President of the United States in 1984 and 1988, Jackson reshaped the national political landscape and inspired millions to believe in the power of participation.
“Rev. Jesse Jackson did not just preach hope — he organized it, mobilized it and turned it into measurable progress,” said J. Willie David III, Founder and President of FCRA. “His life reminds us that democracy is not self-sustaining. It demands vigilance, courage and collective action.”
Jackson’s influence extended beyond American borders. He advocated for human rights globally, negotiated the release of political prisoners and hostages, and used his moral authority to challenge injustice wherever it appeared. His leadership underscored a fundamental truth: the fight for freedom is interconnected across nations.
In honoring Jackson’s legacy, FCRA is calling on citizens, lawmakers and community leaders to:
Protect voting rights and ensure fair and equal access to the ballot.
Defend freedom of speech, press and peaceful assembly.
Promote economic justice and equitable access to health care, education and opportunity.
Stand in solidarity with global movements that advance human dignity and democratic governance.
“At a time when democratic institutions face growing strain — both in the United States and around the world — we must recommit ourselves to the principles Rev. Jackson championed,” David said. “We cannot allow hard-won rights to erode. We must expand them.”
FCRA emphasized that the most meaningful tribute to Jackson is sustained engagement — registering voters, mentoring youth, supporting ethical leadership and holding institutions accountable.
“‘Keep Hope Alive’ was not merely a slogan,” David added. “It was a mandate. It is now our responsibility to carry that mandate forward — to protect democracy, defend civil and human rights, and ensure that justice is not confined by geography, race or class.”
The Florida Civil Rights Association encourages all Americans to reflect on Rev. Jackson’s legacy and take tangible steps toward building a more inclusive and just society.
About the Florida Civil Rights Association
Founded in 2005. The Florida Civil Rights Association is dedicated to advancing civil rights, protecting democratic values and promoting equal opportunity through advocacy, education and community engagement.
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Media Contact:
Florida Civil Rights Association (FCRA)
J Willie David, III, Founder and President
[email protected]
