Jesse Jackson’s legacy is one of showing up
The first time I spoke to Jesse Jackson was in 2021 when I covered the trial of the men who killed Ahmaud Arbery. He sat by Ahmaud’s mother Wanda Cooper in the courtroom, causing an uproar from one of the defense attorneys who was offended that a civil rights icon and Black preacher was in the courtroom.
A day later, more than 100 Black pastors would descend upon Brunswick, Georgia in support of Ahmaud Arbery’s family and Jackson himself. “I have a moral obligation to be here,” he told me at the time.
His unwavering support to the family during a trying time was one we’d seen when Trayvon Martin was killed. He’s made multiple stops to Miami to consistently meet with Black pastors, for campaign stops and protest for rights.
But it will always stay with me that he’s sat with Black families whose loved ones were victims of police (or purported vigilante) gun violence.
Jackson’s legacy, despite its controversies, is one of showing up when it matters. That’s something we can learn from him.
Need to know:
New evidence of hitman, Haitian gang in UM football star’s murder, defense says
Haitian TPS holders in Florida get green light to renew driver licenses
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INSIDE THE 305:
Uncle Luke for Congress? Luther Campbell announces candidacy for House seat
The epic arc of former rapper-turned-community-activist Luther Campbell’s life will curve into a run for Congress, the former high school football coach announced this week.
Do you owe taxes or up for a refund? How a Broward financial pro views job
Lauderhill tax specialist Kerrina O’Connor talks being a tax pro and growing her business. Taxes are due April 15.
Funeral arrangements for Miami activist and advocate Thelma Gibson announced
Coconut Grove native and pioneering Black nurse Thelma Gibson’s family announced funeral plans for next Friday. She was 99.
OUTSIDE THE 305:
2 people with ties to Black History Month’s forefather discuss its 100th anniversary
Two descendants of Black History Month founder Carter G. Woodson spoke to NPR during the 100th anniversary.
HIGH CULTURE:
Afro-Caribbean cuisine added to ‘melting pot’ at South Beach food fest
I’ve been wanting to try Tristen Epps-Long’s macaroni pie since he described it to me weeks ago. And now I and others will get to taste it on Friday at Las’ Lap Link Up, the first Afro-Caribbean cuisine centered event in South Beach Wine and Food Fest’s 25 years. Without question, an event of this magnitude is long overdue. Here’s hoping it stays for years to come.
