Jesse Jackson was America’s best moral export — Olawepo-Hashim

A presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has mourned the passing of renowned American civil rights leader, Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, describing him as one of America’s finest moral exports and a global symbol of justice, unity and democratic struggle.

In a tribute issued on Tuesday, Hashim said the death of Rev. Jackson at the age of 84 marks the end of an era in the global pursuit of equality, human dignity and social justice, noting that his influence extended far beyond the borders of the United States.

Hashim, who served as General Secretary of the Youth Solidarity for South Africa in Nigeria in 1986, described Jackson as a moral voice moulded in the crucible of the struggle for democracy and inclusion.

He added that the late civil rights icon stood firmly in the tradition of prophetic activism and carried forward the unfinished work of the Civil Rights Movement.

He recalled that Rev. Jackson, a close associate of Dr Martin Luther King Jr., helped transform grief into organised resistance and hope into measurable political progress, particularly in the post-King era.

According to him, Jackson’s leadership of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition mobilised millions and consistently amplified the voices of the marginalised, the poor and the excluded, insisting they must have a seat at the table of power.

Hashim, who was also an Amnesty International Prisoner of Conscience in 1989, further highlighted Jackson’s presidential campaigns in the 1980s, describing them as historic efforts that expanded the imagination of what was politically possible for minorities in America and helped reshape the nation’s democratic landscape.

He noted that the late civil rights icon believed deeply in the power of the ballot, peaceful protest and moral conviction, stressing that democracy must work for everyone and not only the privileged few.

“His message was always clear: inclusion is not charity, it is justice,” Hashim stated.

Hashim, who has a long history in human rights and pro-democracy activism, said Jackson’s legacy resonates deeply with many African advocates of justice and liberation.

Beyond America, Hashim described Jackson as a statesman of conscience who engaged in diplomatic interventions, advocated for peace and lent his voice to oppressed people across the world.

He added that Jackson’s life carries enduring lessons for Nigeria and Africa, particularly on the need for leadership anchored on courage, compassion and moral clarity.

“At a time when the world confronts division and distrust, his legacy challenges us to rebuild bridges, defend democratic institutions, and protect the dignity of every human being,” he said.

Hashim concluded by commiserating with the United States over the loss, describing Rev. Jackson as a tireless advocate who refused to surrender to cynicism and whose courage and compassion will continue to inspire generations.

“A towering voice for justice has fallen silent, but the echo of his unwavering fight for equality will inspire generations to stand boldly for what is right,” he added.