Chicago and the nation are preparing to honor the life and legacy of civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, with a series of memorial events scheduled across multiple cities beginning in late February.
According to the official 2026 memorial schedule, services will begin in Chicago, where Jackson built much of his life’s work through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
Chicago Memorial Schedule
February 26–27
Jackson will lie in state beginning at 10 a.m. at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters, located at 930 E. 50th St., Chicago. The public will have the opportunity to pay their respects during the two-day visitation period.
February 27
A public Celebration of Life will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at House of Hope, located at 752 E. 114th St., Chicago. Community members, faith leaders, elected officials, and longtime supporters are expected to attend and share tributes reflecting Jackson’s decades of advocacy for civil rights, economic empowerment, and social justice.
National Services to Follow
Following the Chicago observances:
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March 1–5: Additional services will be held in South Carolina and Washington, D.C. (details are pending).
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March 7: A private Homegoing Service is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
A Lasting Legacy
Jackson, a protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., founded Operation PUSH and later the Rainbow PUSH Coalition in Chicago. His work expanded voter participation, corporate accountability initiatives, and economic inclusion efforts nationwide.
City officials are expected to coordinate security and traffic management as large crowds are anticipated throughout the Chicago events. Organizers encourage attendees to plan accordingly and monitor official Rainbow PUSH Coalition communications for updates.
As Chicago prepares to honor one of its most influential civil rights figures, the upcoming memorial services are expected to draw national attention and reflect the profound impact Rev. Jesse Jackson had on generations of Americans.
