Krissah Thompson, Washington Post
- Members of the Congressional Black Caucus paid tribute to the 25th anniversary of the Rev. Jesse Jackson’s first run for president Wednesday morning on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.
In successive one-minute speeches, caucus members praised Jackson as a trailblazer whose presidential runs in 1984 and 1988 were important steps toward President Obama’s election last year.
The decision to honor Jackson comes at a time when the meaning of black political power is being debated and redefined. The CBC’s recognition of his career, which will continue at a “Discussion on Race” event Wednesday night, is a nod to the history he represents and their belief that issues of race are still central for black politicians.
Wednesday, Jackson looked on with pride as his son Rep. Jesse L. Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.) presided over the first hour of House business and CBC members stepped to the microphone.
