Faith Leaders, Dignitaries and Entertainers to Honor Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. at Public Homegoing Services in Chicago (Chicago, IL) – Faith leaders, elected officials and award-winning entertainers will gather in Chicago on March 6 and 7 to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., the longtime civil rights leader, global advocate and minister whose decades of activism left an indelible mark on the nation and the world.
Dr. Charles Jenkins and Rev. James T. Meeks, both close friends of the Jackson family, will co-officiate the Celebration of Life and Homegoing services.
Jenkins, a former advisor to Jackson and pastor of his home church, Fellowship Baptist Church, called it a “profound honor” to help lead the services.
“He devoted his life with fearless courage and unwavering commitment to advancing the dignity and opportunities of millions of people from every walk of life around the world,” Jenkins said. “His voice will continue to resonate powerfully, echoing across generations and inspiring hearts for years to come.”
The public funeral service, titled “The People’s Celebration,” will be held Friday, March 6, at the House of Hope, 752 E. 114th St., on Chicago’s Far South Side. Doors will open to the public at 9 a.m., with the service beginning at 11 a.m. General admission seating will be available, and organizers recommend arriving early.
Rev. James T. Meeks, emeritus pastor of Salem Baptist Missionary Church, will co-officiate both days of services. Meeks reflected on Jackson’s influence over his own life and ministry.
“From a child of 10 years old, no other figure has had the effect on me as the great Reverend Jesse Jackson,” Meeks said. “I’ve had the honor of growing up working alongside him for the last 35 years, traveling around the world, watching him become the biggest leader in every room using only two weapons — morality and servanthood. Nobody will ever match the impact that he had on this earth.”
Friday’s service will feature musical tributes from EGOT-winning Chicago native Jennifer Hudson, gospel legends BeBe Winans and Pastor Marvin Winans. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker are among the notable speakers scheduled to deliver remarks, alongside family members, national and international leaders, and business figures.
A second service, the “Homegoing Celebration of Life,” will take place Saturday, March 7, at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters, 930 E. 50th St. Doors will open at 9 a.m., with the service beginning at 10 a.m. Media check-in for both days will begin at 8 a.m.
Organizers said no registration is required for general admission seating at either event.
Attendees are encouraged to limit personal items to ensure a smooth entry process. Small bags such as clutches or fanny packs are permitted. Prohibited items include lighters, weapons, signage and any items that could disrupt the services.
Additional details, including livestream access, are available at JesseJacksonLegacy.com.
Faith Leaders, Dignitaries and Entertainers to Honor Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. at Public Homegoing Services in Chicago
