Honoring a Living Legacy: The Black Agenda and United Graduate College & Seminary International Celebrate Reverend Jesse Jackson and His Family

For decades, Reverend Jesse Jackson has stood at the forefront of justice movements, expanding the fight beyond traditional civil rights into economic empowerment. His work has confronted inequities across major sectors, from Silicon Valley to Wall Street to the automotive industry, always with a focus on fairness, opportunity, and dignity for marginalized communities. Through his leadership, the conversation evolved—linking political justice to economic justice in a way that continues to influence policy, business, and grassroots movements worldwide.

The Black Agenda describes this moment as a passing of the torch: from civil rights to what they call “silver rights,” and from political justice to economic justice. This evolution reflects Reverend Jackson’s enduring vision—one that recognizes prosperity, ownership, and access as essential components of true freedom.

Dr. Lance, who has spoken at PUSH conferences on behalf of Reverend Jackson, emphasized the depth of Jackson’s influence, not only as a leader but as a mentor and architect of opportunity. His advocacy, paired with the unwavering contributions of his family, has helped shape institutions, uplift communities, and inspire new generations of global leaders.

Adding to the significance, Dr. King Rivers called the upcoming recognition “monumental and historical,” underscoring Reverend Jackson’s role as a global civility leader whose legacy transcends borders. Dr. Rivers highlighted the importance of honoring elders and ancestors while actively preparing the next generation to carry the mission forward.

Both the Black Agenda and United Graduate College & Seminary International have built their platforms around life-based learning, honoring individuals who have made meaningful contributions across every sector of the economy. In 2025 alone, the initiative expanded to six cities, awarding nearly 300 honorary PhDs to leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Looking ahead to 2026, the vision grows even larger—22 cities and countries worldwide are planned as part of a global expansion.

This January, a special ceremony will take place to formally bestow doctoral honors upon the entire Jackson family, a collective acknowledgment of their enduring impact and shared commitment to justice, service, and empowerment.

As the movement looks to the future, this tribute stands as more than an award—it is a declaration of continuity. By honoring Reverend Jesse Jackson and his family, the Black Agenda and United Graduate College & Seminary International affirm a timeless truth: progress is built by remembering those who paved the way, even as we prepare new leaders to shape what comes next.