El Centro de la Raza remembers Rev. Jesse Jackson
In this historic photo from November 1995, Rev. Jesse Jackson stands at El Centro de la Raza during a powerful Get Out the Vote rally — alongside El Centro co-founder Roberto Maestas, Elisa Miranda, and Alex Bautista.
His presence that day underscored a shared commitment to civic engagement, voter empowerment, and multiracial solidarity. Rev. Jackson believed deeply in the power of the ballot as a tool for justice — urging communities of color to organize, participate, and hold systems accountable.
As a protégé of Martin Luther King Jr. and a two-time presidential candidate, Rev. Jackson carried the Civil Rights Movement forward for decades. Through the Rainbow Coalition and his relentless advocacy for voting rights, economic equity, and human dignity, he expanded the movement’s reach and inspired generations of leaders.
As we mark his passing at 84, we honor a life devoted to justice, courage, and collective power.
May his legacy continue to guide our work — and remind us that democracy demands participation.
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