Full Breakdown
Rev. Jesse Jackson to Lie in State at South Carolina Statehouse
2/24/2026, 4:33:47 AM
Honoring a Civil Rights Icon
The Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., a prominent civil rights leader and two-time Democratic presidential hopeful, will lie in state at the South Carolina Statehouse on March 2, 2026. This honor comes at the request of Jackson's family and members of the South Carolina General Assembly, as announced by Governor Henry McMaster. Flags atop the Statehouse will be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset that day to commemorate Jackson's legacy.
Jackson, who passed away on February 17 at the age of 84, was born in Greenville, South Carolina. His activism began in high school when he led a group of Black students in a sit-in at a segregated public library in 1960, an event that marked the start of his lifelong commitment to civil rights. Throughout his career, Jackson became a protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., participating in significant events such as the Selma to Montgomery voting rights march.
Memorial Services and Celebrations
Following his death, Jackson's body will first lie in repose at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters in Chicago on February 26 and 27. A public memorial service, known as "The People's Celebration," is scheduled for March 6 at House of Hope in Chicago, followed by a private homegoing service on March 7 at the Rainbow PUSH headquarters. Additional memorial services will also take place in Washington, D.C., and South Carolina, reflecting Jackson's deep ties to these locations.
Criticism of Denial for U.S. Capitol Honor
Despite the honors planned in South Carolina and Chicago, a request for Jackson to lie in honor at the U.S. Capitol was denied by House Speaker Mike Johnson's office. The decision was based on precedent, as the Capitol is typically reserved for former presidents and select military officials. This denial has drawn criticism from various quarters, including NAACP President Derrick Johnson, who expressed disappointment over the decision, stating it reflects a disregard for Jackson's contributions to democracy and civil rights.
Legacy and Impact
Jackson's legacy extends beyond his civil rights activism; he founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which focuses on social justice and economic empowerment. His dual presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 significantly influenced American politics, particularly in mobilizing Black voters and advocating for progressive policies. His work also included efforts to remove the Confederate flag from the South Carolina Statehouse grounds following the tragic shooting at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston in 2015.
Official Statements & Responses
Governor Henry McMaster remarked on Jackson's impact, stating, "It is a great honor for Rev. Jackson and a fitting tribute to someone who really loved his state." Meanwhile, Jackson's family has urged the public to focus on celebrating his life rather than politicizing his death, emphasizing that the homegoing services are open to all, regardless of political affiliation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There are so many little boys and little girls in South Carolina who can look in the mirror now and say, ‘I am somebody!’ because of this native son.” — State Sen. Karl Allen, D-Greenville
- “Do not bring your politics, out of respect to Reverend Jesse Jackson and the life that he lived, to these homegoing services,” — Jesse Jackson Jr.
Jackson's contributions to civil rights and his enduring influence on American society will be commemorated through these memorial services, reflecting the profound impact he had on countless lives.
