Kaptur Statement on the Passing of Reverend Jesse JacksonPress Release

Toledo, OH - Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement on the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson:

"My heart goes out to the family of Reverend Jesse Jackson of Chicago including his wife Jacqueline and their 5 children Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, and Jacqueline Jr. He was an inspiring, indefatigable, and eloquent preacher for 'Justice for All,' at home and abroad.

"His pastoral vision of a 'Rainbow Coalition' extended beyond the walls of the Church. He embraced everyone as he marched forward the Dr. Martin Luther King legacy. His forceful advocacy for human rights, worker rights, and civil rights at home and abroad was tireless.

"For me, it was an honor to join him in our hard-fought battle to defeat NAFTA. That agreement locked down irreparable harm to workers no matter on which side of the border they resided.

"He championed the cause of irreparable millions of working men and women, farmers, and their communities as living wage jobs were outsourced to penny-wage nations. His family history gave him the sensitivity to feel and understand exploitation.

"His son Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. served in the Congress of the United States and took the mantle forward by naming the main receiving room in the US Capitol Visitors' Center 'Emancipation Hall.' It's a pleasure to now serve alongside his son Rep. Jonathan Jackson who represents Illinois 1st District.

"May I express gratitude on behalf of the people of the state of Ohio for the countless trips Rev. Jackson made to our region. His zest, acumen, and humor literally lifted the spirits of millions of people as he shared his God-given talents and aspirations for the American people.

"While Rev. Jesse Jackson rests in peace, may his words live on, and his fervent passion continue to inspire the generations to come."

# # #