Chicago is preparing to honor the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. With a series of memorial services beginning today, February 26, 2026. The civil rights icon, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 84, will be celebrated in Chicago, his adopted home, before services move to South Carolina, where he was born, and Washington, D.C. The week-long remembrance reflects the breadth of Jackson’s influence and the profound impact he had on the American landscape.
The schedule of services, released by the Jackson family and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, provides opportunities for the public to pay their respects. These events come as tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum, recognizing Jackson’s decades-long commitment to social justice and equality. Understanding the full schedule of services is key for those wishing to participate in honoring his memory.
Chicago: A City Remembers a Champion
The first phase of memorial events is centered in Chicago, where Jackson built the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and remained a powerful voice for the marginalized. Beginning today, Reverend Jackson will lie in repose at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters, located at 930 E. 50th St. Doors will be open to the public from 10 a.m. To 9 p.m. On both Thursday, February 26th, and Friday, February 27th. This provides an opportunity for community members and admirers to view and pay respects.
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, founded by Jackson as a merger of Operation PUSH and the National Rainbow Coalition, has been central to his work for over 50 years. Rainbow/PUSH continues to advocate for civil rights and social justice, carrying forward the mission Jackson championed throughout his life.
Traffic around the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters will be affected by the expected turnout. Northbound and southbound traffic on South Drexel Avenue between 51st and 49th streets will be closed. Northbound traffic on South Ellis Avenue from 51st to 49th will be controlled access, and East 50th Street will be closed to all traffic at South Ellis Avenue.
South Carolina and Washington, D.C.: Honoring Roots and National Impact
Following the Chicago services, the focus will shift to South Carolina, Jackson’s birthplace. From Sunday, March 1st, through Thursday, March 5th, the family will travel to and from South Carolina and Washington, D.C. A Lying in Repose will be held at the South Carolina State Capitol Rotunda, located at 1100 Gervais St., Columbia, South Carolina, on Monday, March 2nd, at 10 a.m. EST. This will be followed by a private Service of Remembrance at the same location at 10:00 a.m. EST, reserved for family, clergy, and invited guests. A public service will then take place at 10:30 a.m. EST, featuring remarks from Governor Henry McMaster, reflections from state and federal leaders, musical selections from Allen University and/or Benedict College Choir, and a wreath placement ceremony.
Later that day, a church service is scheduled for 6 p.m. EST at Brookland Baptist Church, located at 1066 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia, South Carolina.
Final Celebrations in Chicago
The week of remembrance will conclude with two final celebrations in Chicago. On Friday, March 6th, “The People’s Celebration” will be held at House of Hope, located at 752 E. 114th St. Doors will open at 9 a.m., with the service running from 10 a.m. To 2 p.m. A private Homegoing Celebration will then take place on Saturday, March 7th, at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters (930 E. 50th St.). Doors for this event will open at 8 a.m., with the service from 10 a.m. To 2 p.m., but attendance will be limited.
The outpouring of grief and remembrance following Reverend Jackson’s death underscores his enduring legacy as a champion of civil rights and a voice for the voiceless. His work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. And his own decades of activism have left an indelible mark on American society.
The family has requested privacy during the private services. Further updates regarding the schedule and any potential changes will be available on the Rainbow PUSH Coalition’s website. The public is encouraged to share their memories and condolences through social media using the hashtag #JesseJackson.
As the nation prepares to say farewell to Reverend Jesse Jackson, the focus now turns to the continuation of his work and the pursuit of a more just and equitable society. The next scheduled event is the People’s Celebration at House of Hope on March 6th, offering a final opportunity for public tribute.
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