The line to get into the House of Hope wrapped around the parking lot as people from every walk of life gathered for “The People’s Celebration” to honor Rev. Jesse Jackson. Gospel music welcomed guests, and Chicago-born Jennifer Hudson offered a musical tribute. “Every single person in here has a Jesse Jackson story,” said his son Jesse Jackson Jr., as thousands listened to more than five hours of remembrances.
Attendees repeated Jackson’s signature poem, “I Am — Somebody,” a refrain heard throughout the day and echoed by the crowd and speakers. For many, the moment was both personal and civic: 13-year-old Daniel Russell-Vincent said the poem affirmed that a person “is going to have something to do with this world,” while longtime supporters recalled marching with Jackson and the many ways he showed up for Chicago families.
Former President Barack Obama remembered Jackson as a champion for the poor and dispossessed, someone who called on those left out to come together to make the world better. “He was talking about everyone who was left out, everyone who was forgotten, everyone who was unseen, everyone who was unheard,” Obama said, framing Jackson’s work as central to the health of democracy.
Former President Joe Biden urged Americans to “finish this job” Jackson began, saying, “Jesse kept hope alive for us in his lifetime, and we’ve got to continue to do it in our lifetime for our children.” Vice President Kamala Harris called Jackson “one of the most effective community and political organizers of our time,” noting he did not wait for opportunities to open but created them.
Rev. Al Sharpton mixed scripture and politics in his eulogy, recalling Jackson’s determination and declaring, “We won’t go back!” He urged organizers to carry forward Jackson’s strategy of registering, organizing and mobilizing—”the rainbow is going to come out” in future elections, he said. Former President Bill Clinton closed his remarks on a personal note, calling Jackson a friend who had made him a better president and sharing a story of Jackson calling to pray with his daughter Chelsea during Clinton’s impeachment fight.
Jackson’s son Jesse Jackson Jr. praised his father’s psychological contribution: teaching people “somebodyness” and keeping hope alive. Yusef Jackson, who now leads the Rainbow PUSH Coalition his father founded, vowed the Rainbow Coalition would continue. Family members were central to the service; after remarks, the Jackson family joined the casket as it was wheeled out to return to Leak & Sons funeral home ahead of a private family service at Rainbow PUSH Headquarters.
Dignitaries and public figures paid tribute throughout the day. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker called Jackson “ours,” emphasizing his bond with Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson shared funny memories, recalling Jackson’s competitive streak. Sen. Dick Durbin called him “a force in politics.” Civil rights attorney Ben Crump described Jackson as a mentor and inspiration and shared advice Jackson gave him: “You don’t drown because the water’s deep, you drown because you stop kicking.”
Sports and entertainment figures also spoke. Basketball Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas grew emotional recalling Jackson’s support for his family during a time of loss. Celebrity presence and everyday Chicagoans alike filled the church; one attendee described the service as a “great celebration” and “history in the making.”
The procession to the House of Hope and security preparations began early. Street closures and transit impacts were in effect near the church. A forecast for possible severe storms did not deter the crowds; many came prepared with ponchos and delays shifted schedules for work and appointments so they could attend. Phones filmed the arrival of three former presidents—Obama, Clinton and Biden—who took seats as pastors led a rousing call-and-response reading of “I Am — Somebody.”
The program included a mix of clergy, politicians and activists. Rev. Charlie Dates opened the celebration with prayer and music from the Legacy Mass Choir. Speakers included Gov. Pritzker, Mayor Johnson, Rep. Maxine Waters, Rep. Jonathan Jackson, Santita Jackson and other family members, as well as activists who worked with Jackson on presidential campaigns and civil rights causes.
Attendees shared memories stretching back decades—some who knew Jackson since childhood or came to Rainbow PUSH as young people recalled how his work shaped careers and communities. Activist Hermene Hartman called him “fearless” and said the People’s Service was exactly what Jackson would have loved: full of people.
As the celebration closed, speakers called for action and continuation of Jackson’s work rather than simple mourning. The public memorial concluded with the family’s farewell and the casket’s departure; invited guests and family planned a final private funeral the following morning at Rainbow PUSH. CBS News Chicago streamed that private service live for those who could not attend.
Throughout the day, the message was consistent: remember the life, legacy and work of Jesse Jackson by carrying forward his commitment to hope, organizing and justice.