Jesse Jackson’s vision for America embraced environmental justice

Grist

by Juanpablo Ramirez-Franco

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Jesse Jackson, the iconic civil rights leader who passed away earlier this week at 84, leaves behind a profound legacy of linking social justice with environmental issues. Known for his groundbreaking presidential campaigns, Jackson championed environmental justice during his 1988 run, introducing policies that aimed to address pollution, energy reform, and conservation. His efforts not only brought these issues into the national spotlight but also inspired a generation of activists like Peggy Shepard, co-founder of WE ACT for Environmental Justice, who credits Jackson with reshaping her career path and her commitment to fighting environmental inequality. Jackson’s vision was deeply personal—he connected his upbringing in segregated Greenville, South Carolina, with broader struggles like the toxic water crisis in Flint, Michigan. He understood that marginalized communities often bore the brunt of pollution and resource exploitation, a perspective that aligned with his civil rights activism. By advocating for policies such as the phase-out of nuclear energy, offshore oil drilling bans, and the creation of a federal conservation corps (a precursor to Biden’s American Climate Corps), Jackson laid the groundwork for modern environmental justice movements. Shepard recalls how working on Jackson’s campaign opened her eyes to the stark disparities in pollution exposure across neighborhoods. This experience led her to found WE ACT, which fights for clean air and environmental equity in New York City. Similarly, Cheryl Johnson of People for Community Recovery remembers Jackson as a mentor who inspired her mother, Hazel Johnson, to become one of the first leaders in the environmental justice movement. While Jackson didn’t directly work with Shepard or Johnson on environmental issues, his influence was undeniable, as he consistently linked civil rights and climate justice. Jackson’s legacy extends beyond his policy proposals—he was a unifying figure who bridged activism and action. His ability to connect segregation, pollution, and political power remains relevant today, as communities continue to face disproportionate environmental burdens. His call for equitable solutions to climate change and resource management underscores the ongoing struggle for environmental justice, ensuring that Jackson’s vision continues to inspire future generations of activists and policymakers.

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Originally published on Grist on 2/20/2026