Jesse Jackson left lasting impact in NC: 'Keep hope alive'
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- People across North Carolina are remembering civil rights icon Jesse Jackson for his undeniable impact and trailblazing spirit. Former Congresswoman Eva Clayton remembers the day she got the call from Jackson offering his support to her political campaign. The year was 1992.
"We mourn because he leaves such a big void, right? We also celebrate his life," she said. "You bring Jesse, bring the energy. He brought enthusiasm, and I'm sure that is what helped me win."
Clayton went on to shatter glass ceilings by winning the election and becoming the first Black woman to represent North Carolina's congressional District 1. She called his legacy one that empowered, often giving voice to the voiceless.
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"I am somebody. That resonated with a lot of folks," she said. "Keep hope alive. I have repeated that during this administration many times. I know I got it from Jesse."
Jackson graduated from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University in 1964 with a bachelor's degree in sociology. He got his start in activism as an Aggie on campus, serving as SGA president. Associate Vice Chancellor for Alumni Relations Crystal Boyce was also SGA president at her alma mater. She sees herself in Jackson.
He was a true Aggie through and through. He embodied the essence of what Aggie pride is.- Crystal Boyce, NC A&T Associate Vice Chancellor for Alumni Relations
"It's been an emotional morning. So many Aggies are reaching out. We're reaching out to the alumni chapter in Chicago and in Greenville, where he's from. They're sharing their emotions," she said.
Boyce told ABC11 that his legacy lives on today through current students. It's not lost on them as they walk the very campus Jackson did decades ago with pride.
"He was a true Aggie through and through. He embodied the essence of what Aggie pride is," she said.
Former NC A&T President Harold Martin released the following statement:
"Aggie Nation mourns the loss of our friend and international force for equality and justice, the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. The indelible mark he left on our university and indeed, on all of us, is deeply felt this morning. Our hearts and prayers go out to the Jackson family and to all who knew him and benefitted from his life's work."
Michaux reflects on loss of dear friend
Retired State House Rep. Mickey Michaux Jr. considered Jackson a dear friend even though their colleges would call them rivals.
"He went to A&T. I went to North Carolina Central. When Jesse found out, we formed a symbiotic relationship," said Michaux.
WATCH: Longtime State House Rep. Mickey Michaux reflects on dear friend Jackson.
That relationship quickly blossomed into a brotherhood, and the pair bonded over politics.
"I became Jesse's campaign chairperson in 1984. I attended the 1984 convention in San Francisco as a speaker invited by Jesse," Michaux said.
And when it was Michaux's turn to run for office, Jackson stood right by his side.
"I know in my campaign in 1982 he would energize folks in the eastern part of the state, and I had never seen a person come in and just really energize a group of folks," he reflected.
It was energy and swag that helped Jackson reach the people.
"No question about the fact that his rhetoric, the way he presented himself, certainly helped turn that vote," Michaux said.
Jackson made countless stops at North Carolina Central University
Michaux said his social justice fighter and friend will never be forgotten.
"We've lost just a great individual. I've lost a friend," he said.
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