Reverend Jesse Jackson, a pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement, is retiring from his leadership position at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the organization he established in 1971. His son, Representative Jonathan Jackson, confirmed the news, indicating the official announcement will take place during the organization's annual convention this weekend in Chicago.

Representative Jackson commended his father's enduring dedication to the fight for civil rights, stating that this lifelong commitment will be his defining legacy. The younger Jackson emphasized that his father has consistently been a champion for justice.

Rev. Jesse Jackson speaks during a news conference. (AP Newsroom)

Despite facing health challenges in recent years, including a Parkinson's disease diagnosis in 2017, gallbladder surgery in 2021, a bout with COVID-19, and a fall requiring hospitalization in 2021, the 81-year-old Jackson has remained a prominent voice in the ongoing struggle for equality.

Rev. Jesse Jackson marches in an anti-war demonstration in Washington, D.C. (Mark Reinstein/Corbis via Getty Images)

A protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson initially founded Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity) in 1971 after leaving the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. This organization, later renamed the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, broadened its focus to encompass various social justice initiatives, from advocating for increased minority hiring in corporations to spearheading voter registration drives within minority communities.

Rev. Jesse L. Jackson attends the 2nd Annual Attorney Benjamin Crump Equal Justice Now Awards. (Unique Nicole/Getty Images)

Prior to Barack Obama's historic 2008 presidential campaign, Jackson was the most successful Black candidate for the U.S. presidency, securing 13 primary and caucus victories during his 1988 Democratic nomination bid.

The Rainbow PUSH Coalition released a statement confirming Jackson's transition away from the presidency, highlighting his continued dedication to the cause of social justice. He intends to focus on mentoring ministers in the pursuit of social justice and the advancement of the freedom movement. The organization's upcoming annual convention will serve as a platform to celebrate Jackson's extensive contributions to civil rights and introduce his successor.