02/17/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/17/2026 15:10
ATLANTA - State Representative Floyd Griffin (D-Milledgeville) today issued the following statement on the recent passing of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.:
"Today, America mourns the loss of one of the most consequential civil rights leaders of our lifetime, Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.
"Rev. Jackson was more than a preacher and more than a public figure. He was a fearless advocate for justice, a powerful voice for the poor, the forgotten and the marginalized-and a tireless champion for voting rights, economic opportunity and human dignity.
"I had the honor of meeting Rev. Jackson on several occasions, and each time, I was reminded that his presence carried both moral authority and deep compassion. He never stopped urging America to live up to its highest ideals not just in speeches but in policy, practice and everyday life.
"He stood on the shoulders of giants, and in his own right, he became a giant. His leadership helped shape the conscience of a nation, and his legacy will live on in every community still fighting for fairness, equality and opportunity.
"As a public servant and a proud son of Georgia, I extend my deepest condolences to the Jackson family, to the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and to the countless Americans whose lives were touched by his service and sacrifice.
"In moments like this, we are reminded that leaders solve problems, not create them-and Rev. Jackson spent his life solving the hardest problems our nation faced: injustice, inequality and indifference.
"May his memory be a blessing, and may we honor him not only with words but with actions."
Representative Floyd Griffin represents the citizens of District 149, which includes portions of Baldwin, Bibb and Jones counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2024 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Special Rules and State Planning & Community Affairs committees.
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