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Although he hasn’t been free of scandal throughout the years, there is no denying that the Reverend Jesse Jackson has put in plenty of work as a Civil Rights activist and leader for most of his life. France recognizes this, too, and will be awarding Jackson the Legion of Honour, its highest award for a civilian.
France’s President Emmanuel Macron’s office made the announcement on Friday (July 16).
“Jesse Jackson has never ceased to campaign for peace, justice and brotherhood. He is also committed to education and the climate,” said Macron’s office in a statement. “Its action, based on the strength of argument, on the rejection of all forms of racism and exclusion, always placing citizenship and the aspiration for progress at the center, has inspired several generations of activists and public officials. on all continents.”
The move isn’t without its detractors, though.
Que se passe t il ds la tête à macron? Réfléchissons à bien voter en 2022. Cela devient insupportable. https://t.co/Y7yBVHp6ak
— Nicole ARNAUD (@NicoleARNAUD9) July 18, 2021
Nevertheless, the ceremony and presentation will be conducted in the Elysee Palace on Monday, July 19. Added Macron’s office, “The values promoted by Reverend Jackson are universal and are those of the Republic.”
In 2017, Jackson, 79, revealed that he was battling Parkinson’s disease. During the 1960’s, Jackson could frequently be seen travelling besides Martin Luther King, Jr. He was nearby when King was assassinated in 1968.
RT dienekeita "RT @DDiallo_ardn: Great honor to be Reverend Jesse Jackson in Paris from today at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron of #France @RevJJackson @dienekeita @ahunnaeziakonwa @Atayeshe pic.twitter.com/sGhLefESAB"
— Eugene Kongnyuy (@eugene_kongnyuy) July 16, 2021