Rev. Jesse Jackson changed my life

The article reports that Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson Sr. died at age 84 during Black History Month. The author describes how Jackson's 1984 presidential campaign and long activism profoundly influenced his life while also noting controversies and later health decline.

Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson Sr. died at age 84 during Black History Month, the article reports. He had been ill for some time. The author recalls first seeing Jackson as a youth during the 1984 presidential campaign and says that experience helped shape his path. The piece also notes Jackson's long career in civil and human rights and mentions the controversies that clouded parts of his public life. Key facts: - Rev. Jesse Jackson died at age 84 and had been ill for some time, as reported in the article. - His 1984 presidential campaign and his Democratic National Convention speech that year were pivotal for many, including the author. - The article notes both Jackson's achievements in civil and human rights and several controversies, including an antisemitic remark and allegations about his personal conduct. - The author describes personal memories: working security at an anti-apartheid rally, studying political science because of Jackson's campaign, later seeing Jackson diminished by age but still committed to uplifting others. Summary: The author writes that Jackson's campaigns and activism left a lasting influence on his life and on modern political movements, while also acknowledging serious personal controversies. The article reports Jackson's declining health in later years and his death; further public details and subsequent developments are undetermined at this time.