PFLAG National Mourns the Passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson
February 17, 2026
WASHINGTON—Today, PFLAG members and supporters everywhere honor the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson. As a civil rights leader, Rev. Jackson had been a staunch and demonstrative ally of the LGBTQ+ community for decades.
Brian K. Bond, CEO of PFLAG National, said:
“Today, as we learn of the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson, we mourn the loss of a giant among us. When many refused to acknowledge the existence and struggle of LGBTQ+ people, Rev. Jackson saw us, affirmed us and demanded equality inclusively. In his address to the Democratic National Convention in 1984, Rev. Jackson named us specifically as part of the fabric of the ‘American Quilt.’ He has shown up for and marched with the LGBTQ+ movement through the AIDS crisis, marriage equality, and ever after. Rev. Jackson’s leadership and allyship for LGBTQ+ people will be felt profoundly by his PFLAG family. We will honor his legacy as we continue to strive to achieve justice and equality for all.”
About PFLAG
PFLAG is an organization of LGBTQ+ people, parents, families, and allies who work together to create an equitable and inclusive world. We are hundreds of thousands of people and hundreds of chapters from coast to coast who are leading with love to support families, educate allies, and advocate for just, equitable, and inclusive legislation and policies. Since our founding in 1973, PFLAG works every day to ensure LGBTQ+ people everywhere are safe, celebrated, empowered and loved. Learn more, find support, donate, and take action at PFLAG.org.