Civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson has been hospitalized suddenly, as confirmed by his family. The 84-year-old was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital on Wednesday night. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, based in Chicago and founded by Jackson, provided an update on his condition.
The organization stated that Jackson has been managing a neurodegenerative condition for over a decade. Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, last April, his condition was determined to be PSP. The family expressed gratitude for the thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
With a legacy spanning more than six decades advocating for racial equality and economic justice, Jackson disclosed his battle with Parkinson’s in 2018. Drawing inspiration from his close friend, the late boxer Muhammad Ali, who succumbed to the disease in 2016, Jackson emphasized the impact on movement and daily tasks due to the progressive neurological condition.
The Baptist minister, who worked alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and pursued a significant political career, highlighted the importance of remaining active and mentioned boxing as a recommended activity. Despite the challenges, Jackson vowed to persevere and continue his boxing regimen, which he resumed regularly until a recent hiatus.
Former US President Bill Clinton honored Reverend Jackson with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000, recognizing his unwavering civil rights activism. Additionally, Jackson has been awarded over 40 honorary doctoral degrees for his fearless advocacy work.