National Parents Union Statement on the Passing of Civil Rights Leader Jesse Jackson

Washington, DC, February 17 , 2026 – The National Parents Union released the following statement in response to the passing of civil rights leader Jesse Jackson:

“The National Parents Union mourns the passing of civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, a towering figure whose life’s work expanded opportunity and dignity for millions of Americans.

Rev. Jackson championed voting rights, economic justice, and educational equity. Through the founding of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, he built a multiracial, multifaith movement grounded in the belief that progress is strongest when it lifts all people. His historic campaigns for the presidency broke barriers and helped reshape what leadership in America could look like, inspiring generations who saw themselves reflected in national politics for the first time.

Like many transformative leaders, his life included moments of controversy, but his legacy cannot be reduced to any single chapter. He will be remembered for his enduring commitment to expanding participation in our democracy and for insisting that communities too often pushed to the margins deserved to be heard and represented.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and to the countless communities who carry his work forward.”

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With more than 1,800 affiliated parent organizations in all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico, the National Parents Union is the united, independent voice of modern American families. We channel the power of parents into powerful policies that improve the lives of children, families and communities across the United States. https://nationalparentsunion.org/