The funeral of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson became both a moment of remembrance and a platform for broader social commentary, as several prominent speakers reflected on Jackson’s legacy and the issues they believe continue to shape American society.
Among those who spoke during the public memorial was music icon Stevie Wonder, who shared memories of his long relationship with Jackson before delivering a musical tribute. Wonder described their bond as both personal and political, emphasizing the respect and trust they shared over many years.
“Rev. Jackson and I had a long and strong history,” Wonder told the crowd. “It was personal and political. We were able to love each other and support each other through the good and the bad. I knew his heart, I respected his mind, and trusted his soul.”
Wonder performed two songs during the service — As and They Won’t Go When I Go — the latter of which he said reflected feelings close to his heart. During his remarks, he also addressed issues of racial division and power, urging people to confront what he described as ongoing problems tied to hatred and white supremacy.
“It is you, and you know who you are,” Wonder said during the speech. “You need to overcome hate. You need to overcome the mindset of white supremacy… You shall overcome the need to dominate every single country and its people.”
Wonder was not the only high-profile figure to speak at the event. Former President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris also addressed attendees while reflecting on Jackson’s decades-long role in the civil rights movement and American politics.
.@StevieWonder speaking at Rev. Jesse Jackson Homegoing service: “It is you, and you know who you are. You need to overcome hate. You need to overcome the mindset of white supremacy…You shall overcome the need to dominate every single country and its people.” pic.twitter.com/6GlkOPXGNQ
— CSPAN (@cspan) March 7, 2026
Jackson, who died in February at the age of 84, was a major figure in civil rights activism for more than half a century. A protégé of Martin Luther King Jr., he later founded organizations such as the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and twice ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in the 1980s.
While the memorial focused largely on Jackson’s impact, the political tone of some speeches drew criticism from certain observers who felt the event drifted into broader partisan commentary.
Jackson’s family members also reportedly expressed frustration that political debates overshadowed aspects of the tribute meant to focus on his life and legacy.
President Donald Trump, who had known Jackson for years prior to entering politics, issued a statement offering condolences and reflecting on his relationship with the civil rights leader.
“I knew him well, long before becoming President. He was a good man, with lots of personality, grit, and ‘street smarts,’” Trump said. “He was very gregarious — someone who truly loved people.”
Trump also credited Jackson with playing an important role in the political environment that eventually helped pave the way for Barack Obama’s rise in national politics.
