Jesse Jackson, American Civil Rights Leader and Admirer of Mahatma Gandhi, Dies

America, Feb 18 : Jesse Jackson, the veteran American civil rights leader who passed away on Tuesday, is being remembered for his decades-long advocacy for racial equality and global human rights, drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi. Jackson often referred to Gandhi as the “spiritual godfather” of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, highlighting the transnational roots of non-violent activism.

During a 2008 keynote in New Delhi, marking the 60th anniversary of Gandhi’s martyrdom, Jackson emphasized the enduring relevance of Gandhi’s principles. He described Gandhi’s efforts to eradicate enmity based on race, class, tribe, and gender as a force that shaped decolonization movements across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. “Non-violence and Satyagraha remain our therapy, and the only window for the peace we seek,” Jackson said.

Jackson also paid tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s contributions to India’s freedom struggle. During a 2014 visit to Kolkata, he wrote in the visitors’ book at Netaji Bhawan: “Gandhi plus Bose equals Liberation,” underscoring his appreciation for diverse approaches to freedom and justice.

Bridging movements globally, Jackson highlighted the connection between civil rights reforms in the United States and broader social progress, including immigration reform that benefited the Indian diaspora. MR Rangaswami, founder of Indiaspora, recalled Jackson’s role in opening doors for communities of color through his advocacy.

Beyond activism, Jackson pursued political leadership, including a 1984 Democratic Party presidential bid. He cited Prime Minister Indira Gandhi as an example of strong female leadership, advocating for a woman as his running mate. His campaign influenced the eventual selection of Geraldine Ferraro as the first female vice presidential candidate on a major US party ticket, according to his daughter Santita Jackson.

Throughout his life, Jackson emphasized global solidarity, moral courage, and the power of non-violent action, leaving a legacy that connected civil rights in the United States with struggles for justice worldwide.