Civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson has been hospitalized abruptly, as confirmed by his family. The 84-year-old was admitted to Northwestern Memorial Hospital on Wednesday evening. His organization, the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition, founded by Jackson, released a statement updating the public on his health status.
According to the organization, Jackson has been battling a neurodegenerative condition for over ten years. Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, his condition was confirmed as PSP last April. The family has expressed gratitude for all the prayers and support during this time.
Having dedicated more than six decades to advocating for racial equality and economic justice, Jackson publicly disclosed his struggle with Parkinson’s in 2018. He drew inspiration from his close friend, the late boxer Muhammad Ali, who succumbed to the same illness in 2016.
The Baptist minister, who worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and later pursued a significant political career, discussed the challenges of dealing with the progressive neurological condition, emphasizing the impact on movement and daily activities. He highlighted the importance of staying active and mentioned his involvement in boxing as a recommended activity.
Jackson, a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom bestowed by former President Bill Clinton in 2000, has been recognized with over 40 honorary doctoral degrees for his unwavering commitment to civil rights advocacy.