"The People's Celebration" Announced for Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.

"The People's Celebration" Announced for

Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.

The Rainbow PUSH Coalition has released details on services honoring the life and legacy of civil rights icon Jesse L. Jackson. He will be celebrated during multiple events in Chicago next week. I'm sharing that information here for his Fifth Ward neighbors and friends:

Wednesday and Thursday, February 25 and 26

Rev. Jackson will lie in state at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters at 930 East 50^th Street. Doors will open at 10 a.m. on both days, closing at 9 p.m. on Wednesday and 6 p.m. on Thursday.

Friday, February 27

“The People’s Celebration” will be held at the House of Hope, located at 752 East 114^th Street, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Doors open at 9 a.m.

Saturday, February 28

Rev. Jackson's Homegoing Service will be held at Rainbow PUSH. Doors open at 9 a.m., and the service will begin at 10 a.m.

Other Events for Your Calendar

Application Deadline

Is Tomorrow!

Quarterly Town Hall

Is Approaching

EARLY VOTING HOURS

Now through March 8

·      Weekdays: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

·      Saturdays: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

·      Sundays: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

March 9 - March 16

·      Weekdays: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm

·      Saturday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

·      Sunday: 10:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Any voter in Chicago can vote at any early voting site. Early voting starts March 2 in all 50 wards of Chicago. The locations for these early voting sites are listed here.

Attention: Fifth Ward Homeowners

Apply for a ComEd

Power for Good Grant

And Don't Forget:

Black Dads Always Rock!

Please Share with Our Young People

Calling all 10th- and 11th-grade young men interested in energy and sustainability! Learn more at the next information session on March 3.

Embark on a free, electrifying week of energy learning, hands-on activities, and leadership development at the Exelon Foundation Boys to STEM Academy. The Chicago academy will convene June 21 – 26, 2026, at DePaul University, offering a week of energy challenges and immersive experiences that blend STEM with professional development skills.

Students will explore sustainable energy solutions, meet professionals in the STEM and energy industry, and become part of a community shaping the future!

Judge the 2026 National

ACT-SO Competition

The 117th NAACP national convention returns to Chicago on July 15-17, 2026. One of the most anticipated highlights each year is the NAACP ACT-SO competition. Founded by author, journalist, and longtime Fifth Ward resident Vernon Jarrett, ACT-SO is a year-long youth initiative that recognizes creativity, academic achievement, and artistic achievement.

ACT-SO also offers an opportunity for dedicated individuals to serve as judges for the national competition. This is a unique chance to witness firsthand the incredible talent and dedication of these young scholars and artists who travel across the nation, from as far away as Alaska, to compete for the top NAACP student honors.

Here are several compelling reasons why volunteering to judge for ACT-SO is a rewarding experience:

• Inspire the Next Generation: Your expertise and feedback will directly encourage and shape the futures of these talented young individuals.
• Witness Excellence: You will be privileged to see exceptional projects and performances across a range of categories, from STEM and humanities to visual and performing arts.
• Network with Leaders: An opportunity to connect with other professionals, educators, and community leaders passionate about youth development.
• Give Back to the Community: Your time and expertise will contribute significantly to the success of this vital NAACP program.
• Make a Tangible Impact: It is incredibly fulfilling to know that you helped recognize and celebrate these students' achievements, especially those who have traveled great distances. Your presence will underscore the importance of their hard work and dedication.

Researching Chicago History?

Libraries: A Safe Space to Learn