Slow inspirational music played from the speakers outside Rainbow PUSH Coalition in Kenwood as Rev. Jesse Jackson’s family procession arrived after 8 a.m. on Thursday morning. The civil rights leader, who died at 84 on Feb. 17, will lie in repose throughout the day at the headquarters of his historic nonprofit.
Color guard members paid respects to Jackson as his casket was removed from a hearse bearing the name Leak & Sons and carried into the building as Jackson’s family followed behind.
By 9:20 a.m., about 150 people formed a line down Drexel Avenue as recordings of Jackson’s speeches blared from speakers. Among them were people of all generations who said they came to show their gratitude for Jackson and be a part of a historical moment.
“I’ve heard so many great things about other leaders in the past and I wasn’t there to be a part of those moments that made history,” said Melissa Durham-Richards, 45, of Englewood. “I want to tell my family about what it felt like to help close this chapter.”
Durham-Richards said she volunteered at Rainbow PUSH Coalition, but wishes she had gotten more involved while Jackson was alive.
“He had an assignment,” she said. “He took it on wholeheartedly. That was what’s special about him. He did it gracefully, he did it with integrity. He did it with pride. He was a model to follow. He opened up doors for us.”
Pastor King James Camper, 60, of Richton Park, said Jackson inspired him to go into ministry.
“He wasn’t traditional,” said Camper, who leads Camper’s Temple Church of God in Christ, Gary Ind. “He was connected to the community and the people and he connected religion with current events. It’s more than just seeking God but learning to live in this society and fight for rights with God’s help.”
The public viewing, which runs from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., is one of several opportunities to pay respects to Jackson. He will lie in repose for a second day on Friday, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Additional services will take place March 2 in South Carolina and March 4 in Washington, D.C.
A “People’s Celebration” will be held March 6 at 10 a.m. at House of Hope in Chicago. Private homegoing services are scheduled for 10 a.m. on March 7 at Rainbow PUSH.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.