NCBL’s Statement on the Passing of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.

February 17, 2026

The National Conference of Black Lawyers (NCBL) acknowledges with deep respect and solemn reflection the passing of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., a courageous and groundbreaking leader whose life was devoted to advancing the rights and dignity of oppressed people in the United States and throughout the world. 

Rev. Jackson shared a historic and substantive relationship with NCBL rooted in community-based legal advocacy. During the years of the NCBL Community College of Law, NCBL partnered with Operation PUSH, under Rev. Jackson’s leadership, to operate a law clinic dedicated to providing legal education, services, and advocacy in service of Black communities on Chicago's Southside. This collaboration occurred from 1979-1986 and reflected a shared understanding that law must be accountable to the people and responsive to lived conditions of injustice.

NCBL also honors the role of the late Attorney Lewis Meyers, Jr., a respected NCBL attorney and leader, who served as one of Rev. Jackson’s legal counsel for many years. His work alongside Rev. Jackson exemplified NCBL’s long tradition of principled legal representation aligned with movement struggle. 

Rev. Jackson confronted entrenched systems of power with courage. He challenged racism, economic exploitation, and political exclusion, and he did so with an unwavering commitment. 

NCBL extends its sincere condolences to the Jackson family, to Rainbow PUSH Conference, and to the many communities whose lives were impacted by Rev. Jackson’s leadership. We acknowledge and honor the historic ties that connect our organizations and recommit ourselves to the unfinished work of justice.

May he rest in power.

The National Conference of Black Lawyers