Commissioner Jonathan Young, speaking for the Camden County Board of Commissioners, released a statement following the death of Reverend Jesse Jackson. Rev. Jackson, a well-known civil rights leader, died at age 84.
“The Camden County Board of Commissioners and I are deeply saddened by the news that civil rights trailblazer Reverend Jesse Jackson passed away this morning at the age of 84. Rev. Jackson was a pivotal figure in the fight for civil rights during the 1960s and remained dedicated throughout his life to making America a more just and equitable place for all.
As a protégé of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Jackson rose to national prominence as a young leader during the Civil Rights Movement. After Dr. King was assassinated, it was Rev. Jackson who carried the torch forward and ensured that the movement did not lose momentum.
Rev. Jackson made history as the first Black man to mount a major campaign for President of the United States, paving the way for future generations of leaders, including President Barack Obama, and countless others across the nation.
Through his organization, Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Rev. Jackson championed civil and human rights on a global scale. By removing barriers to economic success through educational opportunities, scholarships, job assistance, and housing support, the impact of Rev. Jackson is immeasurable.
Through his mentorship of emerging politicians and activists, Rev. Jackson helped to preserve the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and kept its value alive for years to come. We extend our deepest condolences to all of Rev. Jackson’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Camden County serves over 500,000 residents in southern New Jersey across 37 municipalities through various services including public safety, health initiatives, transportation improvements, education programs, workforce development efforts and community partnerships (https://www.camdencounty.com/). The county is managed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners responsible for legislative and executive duties on behalf of its communities (https://www.camdencounty.com/). The board aims to enhance quality of life by maintaining facilities such as parks and libraries while fostering economic growth (https://www.camdencounty.com/).
