A RESOLUTION adjourning the Senate in honor and loving memory of the incomparable Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gerald Neal

The Senate would adjourn each day in honor of Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., recognizing his civil rights leadership, public service, and advocacy for social and economic justice.

adopted by voice vote

#memorials

Summary of SR 104 (2026RS) – Kentucky Senate

Purpose and intent

SR 104 is a commemorative resolution proposing that the Kentucky Senate adjourn in honor and loving memory of Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.

It recognizes Jackson’s life, legacy, and extensive public service as a civil rights leader, international diplomat, educator, and advocate for social and economic justice.

Key provisions

Section 1: Expresses the Senate’s profound sympathy and condolences to Rev. Jackson’s family, friends, and all who knew him.

Section 2: Directs that, upon adjournment of the Senate for the day, the body adjourns in honor and loving memory of Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.

Section 3: Requires the Clerk of the Senate to transmit a copy of the resolution to Senator Gerald Neal.

What is being acknowledged

Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.’s biography highlights include:

Born October 8, 1941; Greenville, South Carolina.
Civil rights work beginning in the 1960s, involvement with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and leadership roles in Operation Breadbasket, Operation PUSH, and the Rainbow Coalition.
Founding roles for Operation PUSH (1971) and the Rainbow Coalition (1996), later merging to form the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
National political impact through presidential campaigns (1984, 1988) and voter mobilization efforts.
International diplomacy, including special envoy roles and hostage/resolution efforts in various countries.
Promotion of labor rights, education, health care access, and civil rights enforcement.
A long record of honors and honorary degrees, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2000) and other international recognitions.
Active advocacy for democracy, social justice, and economic opportunity for underserved communities.

Who/what would be affected

The Kentucky Senate district and participants: Senate leadership and members as well as the Clerk responsible for transmitting the resolution.

The general public: serves as a formal public tribute and record of respect for Rev. Jackson’s contributions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Status: Introduced and referred to the Committee on Committees (S) on February 17, 2026.

Subsequently moved to the Senate Floor and adopted by voice vote on February 17, 2026.

Practical effect: When the Senate adjourns for the day, it would adjourn in honor of Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., per Section 2.

Notable context

This is a ceremonial resolution, not a bill creating law or altering policy. Its primary function is to formally recognize Rev. Jackson’s legacy and express the Senate’s condolences.