SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mattie Hunter led a Senate resolution honoring the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson.

“We recently lost one of the towering giants of the American civil rights movement,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Reverend Jackson gave his life to the cause of justice, equality and the dignity of every human being — and the world is immeasurably better because of it.”

Jackson rose from humble beginnings in the segregated South to become one of the most influential civil rights leaders in American history, eventually becoming a close aide to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and being present at the time of his assassination in 1968.

He made Chicago his home and the base of his activism, founding organizations like Operation PUSH and the National Rainbow Coalition in the city. Throughout his life, he also served as a diplomat and activist on the world stage, securing the release of hostages in multiple countries and leaving behind a powerful legacy of advocacy for civil rights, social justice and human dignity.

Jackson also visited the Illinois State Capitol many times throughout his life, and worked closely with a number of members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus – including Hunter. He died Feb. 17 at the age of 84.

“I carry Reverend Jackson’s words and his example into this work every single day, and I am committed to honoring his legacy by continuing to fight for the people he spent his life defending,” said Hunter. “Rest in power, Reverend. The work goes on.”

Senate Resolution 637 was adopted by the Senate Thursday.