A crowd from every walk of life filled House of Hope for “The People’s Celebration,” where thousands gathered to honor the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson. The line wrapped around the parking lot as gospel music welcomed attendees and Chicago-born Jennifer Hudson delivered a musical tribute. Jesse Jackson Jr. told the crowd, “Every single person in here has a Jesse Jackson story,” as the service stretched through more than five hours of remembrances.
Throughout the day, speakers and attendees echoed Jackson’s signature poem, “I Am — Somebody,” a refrain that became both a personal affirmation and a public rallying cry. Thirteen-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, saying, “He was talking about everyone who was left out, everyone who was forgotten, everyone who was unseen, everyone who was unheard,” and framing Jackson’s work as central to the health of democracy. Former President Joe Biden urged Americans to “finish this job” Jackson began, adding, “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 a forceful eulogy, recalling Jackson’s determination and declaring, “We won’t go back!” He urged organizers to carry forward Jackson’s approach of registering, organizing and mobilizing and predicted that “the rainbow is going to come out” in future elections. Former President Bill Clinton closed his remarks with a personal anecdote about Jackson’s steadiness during his own family crisis.
Family members played a central role in the service. Yusef Jackson, who now leads the Rainbow PUSH Coalition founded by his father, vowed the coalition would continue its work. Jesse Jackson Jr. praised his father’s psychological gift of teaching people “somebodyness” and of keeping hope alive. After the public program, the family joined the casket as it was wheeled out 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,” underscoring his roots in Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson shared humorous memories of Jackson’s competitive streak. Sen. Dick Durbin described him as “a force in politics.” Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who called Jackson a mentor, recalled Jackson’s advice: “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 during family loss.
Security preparations and street closures began early, and a forecast of possible severe storms did not deter many who came prepared with ponchos. Phones recorded 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 mixed clergy, politicians and activists, with Rev. Charlie Dates opening in prayer and music from the Legacy Mass Choir. Speakers included Gov. Pritzker, Mayor Johnson, Rep. Maxine Waters, Rep. Jonathan Jackson, Santita Jackson and others who worked with Jackson on presidential campaigns and civil rights causes.
Attendees shared memories spanning decades—some who knew Jackson since childhood or came to Rainbow PUSH as young people spoke of 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 urged action rather than grief, calling on those present to carry forward Jackson’s commitment to hope, organizing and justice. 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, which CBS News Chicago streamed for those who could not attend. The day’s message was consistent: remember Jesse Jackson by continuing the work he devoted his life to—bringing people together, lifting voices, and fighting for a more just society.