LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass today issued the following statement:
“I grew up watching Reverend Jesse Jackson lead a national movement that fought for justice for poor and working people. I am deeply saddened by his passing, but profoundly grateful for the example he set and the generation of leaders he inspired.
“Rev. Jackson was a civil rights hero and a tireless advocate for those too often overlooked. He was an icon who helped elect countless Black leaders, and his historic, groundbreaking presidential campaigns paved the way for the eventual election of President Barack Obama. Jesse was also a friend, and I had the honor of working with him on a wide range of issues throughout my career.
“In addition to his work on voting rights and economic justice, Rev. Jackson’s impact expanded to corporate America where he worked to make the private sector more democratized, and internationally, where he worked for diplomacy and helped secure the release of hostages.
“He leaves a lasting legacy of hope and it is now up to us to Keep Hope Alive!”