Jesse Jackson, the iconic civil rights leader, passed away at his South Side Chicago home at the age of 84. His influence on American politics and social justice movements is immeasurable, with his impact reaching even the environmental justice movement.
Peggy Shepard, co-founder and executive director of WE ACT for Environmental Justice, credits Jackson with changing the course of her life nearly 40 years ago. She became the press secretary for Jackson’s 1988 presidential campaign, where he emphasized environmental justice issues that were not commonly discussed in national politics at the time. Jackson’s campaign called for a national energy policy that would phase out offshore oil drilling and nuclear energy, reduce car emissions, and restore wetlands and forests. His vision for a federally sponsored workforce program was reminiscent of the New Deal Civilian Conservation Corps.
Jackson’s influence on environmental justice advocates like Shepard is evident in the work they continue to do today. His connections between segregation in his hometown of Greenville, South Carolina, and the toxic water crisis in Flint, Michigan, highlighted the intersectionality of social and environmental issues.
Cheryl Johnson, who runs People for Community Recovery in Chicago, was inspired by Jackson’s fight for civil rights from a young age. Her mother, Hazel Johnson, worked with Jackson during the Clinton administration and is known as the “mother of the environmental justice movement.” Cheryl recalls Jackson’s charismatic appeals for hope and justice, and although she never directly collaborated with him on environmental issues, she admired his understanding of the struggles faced by marginalized communities.
In addition to his work on civil rights, Jackson also advocated for pragmatic solutions to energy and environmental issues. He supported a natural gas pipeline project in Pembroke Township, aiming to create jobs and economic development in a predominantly Black farming community. Jackson’s involvement in the Flint water crisis brought national attention to the issue, with his calls for accountability and justice resonating with residents like Melissa Mays.
Mays, a clean water activist in Flint, remembers Jackson’s support during her lawsuit against the city for lead-contaminated water. His presence elevated the crisis to a national platform, demanding action and accountability from government officials. Jackson’s legacy of activism and advocacy lives on in the work of environmental justice advocates like Shepard and Johnson, who continue to fight for equitable and sustainable solutions in marginalized communities. In 2024, a prominent figure made his last public appearance in Flint at the Flint Southwestern Classical Academy. This visit was significant as it aimed to highlight the importance of voting in a democratic society. The individual, known for his fearless approach to advocating for social change, delivered a powerful message to the students and community members present.
“He was not afraid of anybody,” remarked one attendee, reflecting on the courage and determination displayed by the speaker. Throughout his career, he had been a vocal advocate for civil rights, equality, and justice for all. His commitment to fighting for what is right inspired many, and his final appearance in Flint served as a reminder of the impact that one person can have on a community.
The visit to the Flint Southwestern Classical Academy was a poignant moment, as it underscored the significance of civic engagement and participation in the democratic process. The speaker emphasized the importance of voting as a fundamental right and a powerful tool for effecting change. He encouraged the students to educate themselves on the issues, engage in meaningful discussions, and exercise their right to vote in every election.
The audience was captivated by his words, as he shared personal anecdotes and experiences that highlighted the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement. His passion for justice and equality was palpable, and his call to action resonated with all those in attendance. As he concluded his speech, he received a standing ovation from the crowd, a testament to the impact he had made on the community.
Although this was his last public appearance, the legacy of the speaker lived on through the inspired minds and empowered hearts of those who had the privilege of hearing him speak. His message of hope, resilience, and courage continued to reverberate throughout the halls of the Flint Southwestern Classical Academy and beyond. As the students reflected on his words and the importance of voting, they were reminded of the power they held to shape the future and create a more just and equitable society.
In a time of uncertainty and division, the visit to the Flint Southwestern Classical Academy served as a beacon of hope and a reminder that change is possible when individuals come together to advocate for what is right. The speaker’s legacy would endure, inspiring future generations to stand up, speak out, and make their voices heard in the ongoing fight for equality and justice for all.
