Political Quotes

“The year was 1969. I had just graduated from law school. I was working for the Lieutenant Governor of the State of Illinois, a man named Paul Simon. He sent me on a mission. He wanted me to go to my hometown--East St. Louis, IL--and then to Cairo, IL. Both communities were in desperate need of help. The reason he asked me to go at that time was the fact that the Reverend Jesse Jackson, in 1969, was launching Operation Breadbasket. He was shining a light on the ravages of poverty and the failure of the government to protect those in need. He went through these two communities to listen to the desperate, the damned, and the disinherited. Even then, Reverend Jackson exuded a warmth that could put even the most anxious person at ease. He spoke with eloquence that would stir a person's heart--always did. As he continued his fight against poverty and injustice, Reverend Jackson became one of the founding voices of the civil rights movement in America. He inspired countless politicians, activists, and preachers to fight for the dignity in every person. In his life, Reverend Jackson contributed to the benefit of so many people. He will continue to be a symbol of hope, endurance, and equality long after his death. I extend my sympathies to his wife, his family, his friends, and followers. His Operation PUSH on the South Side of Chicago is a legendary venue. Everybody who is anybody in politics makes a stop there.”