Mayra Rivera-Vázquez (pictured), Democratic candidate for South Carolina's 1st Congressional District, released the following statement on the passing of the Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson Sr., the civil rights leader, two-time presidential candidate, and South Carolina native who died this morning at the age of 84:
"Today, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, born in South Carolina, a giant of the civil rights movement whose moral courage and relentless advocacy transformed American politics and expanded opportunity for millions.
"Rev. Jackson stood on the front lines of the struggle for racial justice, working alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and carrying forward the unfinished work of the movement for decades. Through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, he built multiracial, multigenerational coalitions that challenged injustice in voting rights, economic equity, labor protections, and access to education and health care. His historic presidential campaigns expanded our political imagination and inspired communities long excluded from power to see themselves as agents of change.
"He believed deeply in solidarity across Black, Latino, working-class, and marginalized communities united around shared values of dignity and opportunity. He understood that justice is not divisible — when one community suffers, we all are diminished.
"His commitment extended beyond the mainland United States. Rev. Jackson, alongside his wife, Jacqueline Jackson, stood in solidarity with the people of Puerto Rico during times of economic hardship and political uncertainty. He called attention to the island’s unequal treatment under federal law, advocated for economic fairness, and uplifted the voices of Puerto Ricans demanding dignity, disaster relief, and respect. For many on the island and in the diaspora, his presence affirmed that their struggle was part of the broader American fight for civil rights and self-determination.
"In 2001, Jacqueline Jackson was imprisoned for 10 days after being arrested alongside Rev. Jackson and other peaceful activists at Camp Garcia in Vieques, Puerto Rico, while protesting the United States Navy’s bombing exercises on the island. Her willingness to accept arrest reflected the same moral conviction and solidarity that defined their shared commitment to justice.
"As the first Latina and Boricua to run for Congress in South Carolina, I feel this loss deeply. Rev. Jackson showed us how to build bridges where others build walls. He taught us that progress requires courage, persistence, and a willingness to stand with those pushed to the margins.
"We honor his life not only with words, but with action. At a time when voting rights are challenged, economic inequality grows, and communities are divided by fear and misinformation, we recommit ourselves to the work he devoted his life to — creating a nation that is fair, equitable, and just. We will continue building coalitions across the Lowcountry. We will continue fighting for working families, affordable health care, economic opportunity, and the full promise of American democracy.
"Our heartfelt solidarity and embrace go out to Jacqueline, their children, extended family, and all who love peace and justice in the United States.
"Rev. Jesse Jackson reminded us that “Keep Hope Alive” is not just a slogan — it is a responsibility.
"May we carry that responsibility forward."