Jesse Jackson

Reverend Jesse Jackson is one of America's foremost political figures. Over the past three decades, he has played a major role in virtually every movement for empowerment, peace, civil rights, gender equality, and economic and social justice. He has been called "the conscience of the nation" and "the great unifier," challenging America to establish just and humane priorities, and bringing people together on common ground across lines of race, class, gender, and belief. A highly-respected world leader, he has acted many times as an international diplomat in sensitive situations. His two presidential campaigns (1984 and 1988) broke new ground in U.S. politics, building an unprecedented coalition that inspired millions to join the political process. He has worked extensively with youth, encouraging excellence and urging young people to stay away from drugs, and is a major force in the American labor movement. Jackson has received numerous honors for his work in human rights and social justice and has been named 10 times to the Gallup List of the Ten Men Most Respected by Americans.