Despite his frailty even a few years ago, Rev. Jesse Jackson pressed his way to a VIP lounge at the New York Sheraton Hotel to meet with me… With a somewhat broken speech from a man who was once one of America’s greatest orators, his words were definitive, sincere and passionate, his love for his people evident, and his conviction towards Black economic empowerment unshaken. The fragility of his physical frame could not diminish the complexity of his genuine commitment.
He talked about the work I am doing in Africa and wished he could be more supportive, as he pressed the need to continue to push for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the corridors of Corporate America, especially on issues of banking and the exploding dot com world.
Now, in his death we pause to honor and reflect on his extraordinary life – a luminary in the Civil Rights Movement and an unwavering advocate for justice and Black empowerment. His passing marks a profound loss not only for the Black community but for all those who believe in the relentless pursuit of a fair and just society. Rev. Jackson epitomized resilience and commitment, demonstrating throughout his life that true leadership transcends personal challenges.
Definitely a man ahead of his time and a “junior” Martin Luther King, Jesse Jackson grabbed the baton right there at the Lorraine Hotel in Memphis. He ran – speeding like a Usain Bolt –from Operation Bread Basket, The Rainbow Coalition, PUSH, The 1000 Church Initiative, and on to the Wall Street Project. He was both a trailblazer and a pathfinder, a pioneer and a history maker.
Years ago, during an engaging season working to get major banks to deepen their commitment to lending and reinvesting in Black communities, Rev. Jackson called to invite me to a one-on-one meeting with Sandy Weill, the chairman for Citigroup. I didn’t want to go but because Jesse called, I felt I needed to go.
My deep insight on Citibank and their pitiful numbers when it came to Community Reinvestment (CRA), small business lending and their home mortgage data (HMDA) was of real concern to me. Then Jesse said to me, “Dillon, he needs to understand these numbers.”
Although hesitant, I recognized the importance of his request, and it became a pivotal moment in Weill’s understanding of marginalized communities and, of course, the deposit power of Black America. Jesse understood that these numbers represented Black lives, our dreams, and future; and he pressed for accountability and engagement in a landscape that often marginalized these voices.
Rev. Jackson’s dual runs for the presidency also helped to reshape the possibilities for future leaders and set the stage for Barack Obama’s historic victory. His vision and versatility have continuously provided a blueprint for navigating the complexities of both American and global societal dynamics. His legacy is one of hope. Where there was despair, he planted seeds of optimism, urging generations to believe in their reSURGEnce and the collective strength of our communities. The work he championed, especially around diversity, equity, and inclusion in Corporate America, reminds us that while strides have been made, the journey towards true equality is ongoing.
As we remember Rev. Jesse Jackson, let us not only mourn his passing but also celebrate the life he led – a life of tireless advocacy, boundless spirit, and unwavering hope. Thus, we can shout from the mountain top that HOPE IS ALIVE!
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