Memorials, Death - Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jesse Chism

TN HJR1264 memorializes Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., recognizing his civil rights leadership and urging reflection on his ideals of hope, justice, and service.

Signed by Governor.

#death #memorials

Purpose and intent

HJR1264 is a memorial resolution intended to continue honoring the memory of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., who led civil rights advocacy, voting rights, and human dignity efforts, notably through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.

The resolution commemorates Reverend Jackson one month after his passing and reaffirms appreciation for his legacy and guiding principles (hope, justice, service).

Key provisions and changes

Expresses ongoing recognition by the Tennessee General Assembly of Reverend Jackson’s contributions to civil rights, justice, and economic and political equity.

Reaffirms the moral and societal impact of his leadership and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, affirming that his advocacy continues to influence leaders and communities.

Encourages reflection on his ideals and commits the Legislature to recommit to the principles for which he stood.

Declares condolences to Reverend Jackson’s family and acknowledges the enduring nature of his legacy for future generations.

Technical note: The resolution allows for an official copy to be prepared for presentation, with a specific clerical formatting instruction (omitting the final clause from the copy and ensuring the language after the State seal appears without House or Senate designation when requested).

Affected parties and beneficiaries

Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.: the primary individual commemorated.

Family of Reverend Jackson: acknowledged with expressions of sympathy and condolences.

Tennessee citizens and institutions: are invited to reflect on and be guided by his legacy of hope, justice, and service.

Legislative process: the act is a ceremonial memorial, not a policy or funding bill; it symbolically recognizes contributions rather than altering law or public programs.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Public record shows a rapid progression from introduction to passage in April 2026.

Key steps:

Introduced and placed on House consent calendar (April 2–6, 2026).
House adopted the resolution with overwhelming support (Ayes 90, Nays 0; PNV 2) on April 6, 2026.
Concurred by the Senate with unanimous support (Ayes 31, Nays 0) on April 13, 2026.
Enrolled and signed by leadership (House Speaker, Senate Speaker) around April 15–16, 2026.
Transmitted to the Governor for action on April 16, 2026; governor’s action not detailed in the provided record.

Proposed impact

Serves as an official, ceremonial acknowledgment by the Tennessee General Assembly of Reverend Jackson’s life and contributions.

Signals the Legislature’s alignment with his ideals of hope, justice, civil rights, and service, potentially informing future commemorations or education about his legacy.

No fiscal impact or policy changes are involved; the resolution is symbolic and commemorative.

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