Jesse Jackson is remembered for his ministry, politics and international social advocacy
- Mar 7
- 1 min read
Throughout his life, Jesse Jackson had much to do and much to say. In 1988, when Jackson was a candidate for president of the United States, he delivered a campaign speech in the gymnasium at Portland State University. His famous expressions and spontaneous messages captivated the crowd — words that will continue to live on. Words that will encourage people everywhere to keep hope alive.
"Peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice."
"We must not measure greatness from the mansion down, but from the manger up."
"The only justification for ever looking down on someone is to lift them up."
"It's time for us to turn to each other, not on each other."
"Deliberation and debate is the way you stir the soul of our democracy."
"Leadership has a harder job to do than just choose sides. It must bring sides together."
Jesse's dialogue with children:
I am: Somebody.
I may be poor, but I am: Somebody!
I may be on welfare, but I am: Somebody!
I may be uneducated, but I am: Somebody!
I must be, I'm God's child. I must be respected and protected. I am black and I am beautiful!
I am: Somebody!
"Keep hope alive."
