Thousands are expected to gather in Chicago on Friday to celebrate the life and legacy of civil rights icon Jesse Jackson during a memorial service titled “Celebration of Hope.” The influential leader died on Feb. 17, 2026, at the age of 86.
National Leaders to Deliver Remarks
Former U.S. presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Joe Biden are scheduled to speak during the public homegoing service Friday morning at the House of Hope in Chicago. Former Vice President Kamala Harris is also expected to deliver remarks.
Additional attendees include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former first lady Jill Biden.
Family members say the ceremony will honor Jackson’s decades-long fight for civil rights, economic equality, and social justice in the United States and abroad.
A Life Dedicated to Civil Rights
Jackson began his career as a close associate of Martin Luther King Jr. and later emerged as one of the nation’s most prominent civil rights leaders. Over the years, he championed voting rights, education access, healthcare equity, and peace initiatives worldwide.
In a statement, the Jackson family encouraged supporters to continue advancing those causes.
“Jesse Jackson Sr. changed the United States—and the world,” the family said. “We hope those honoring him will continue the work he devoted his life to.”
Public and Private Services Planned
Friday’s memorial service will take place at Chicago’s House of Hope event center, with thousands expected to attend. A private service for family and close friends is scheduled for Saturday.
The public tributes follow several days of remembrance events, including Jackson lying in honor at the headquarters of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition in Chicago. Earlier this week, he also lay in state at the South Carolina State House in Columbia, his birth state.
Additional Speakers and Performances
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois Gov. J. B. Pritzker and Rep. Maxine Waters are among the scheduled speakers.
The service will also feature performances by singer and actress Jennifer Hudson, gospel legends BeBe Winans and Marvin Winans. Music icon Stevie Wonder is expected to perform at Saturday’s private service.
Jackson had faced several health challenges in recent years, including Parkinson’s disease and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a rare neurological disorder.
His son, Jesse Jackson Jr., has urged those attending the services to focus on unity and gratitude, reflecting the broad legacy his father leaves behind.
For more on Jackson’s farewell, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.