New leader leaves Jesse Jackson’s civil rights group

The pastor who took over Rev. Jesse Jackson’s civil rights organization has submitted his resignation less than three months after his tenure began. 

The Rev. Frederick Haynes III, a pastor from Dallas, submitted his resignation from the Rainbow-PUSH Coalition on Friday, the Associated Press reported. 

In a statement, the 63-year-old pastor said he remains “committed to honoring the rich history of RPC,” as well as to Jackson and the calling and pursuit of social justice.

“Rest assured that my work in the fight for liberation and freedom continues,” Haynes said. 

Jackson, 82, announced last July that he was stepping down amid health issues, including his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. The reverend was a close ally and friend of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

In 1971, Jackson founded Operation PUSH, which later became the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, headquartered in Chicago. 

The group’s work focuses on minority and human rights, from conducting voter registration drives in communities of color to calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. 

In a statement, Jackson said the organization is grateful for Haynes’s service and leadership. 

“Our relationship with Rev. Haynes has been blessed by God to last over 30 great years,” the statement reads. “We remain eternal partners in the fight for peace, civil rights and economic justice.”

He added this son, Yusef Jackson, will continue to serve as chief operating officer of the organization.

“As we look forward, the Rainbow Push Coalition will continue to work for people and their right to fight for self-determination, and social and economic justice,” Jackson continued. “We will carry on the vital work of protecting, defending, and gaining civil rights by leveling the economic and educational playing fields.”

“Our commitment to promoting peace and justice around the world remains unwavering,” he added.