Jesse Jackson, Wife Emerge as Grand Baba, Grand Yeye as African Festival of the Arts Ends in U.S.

Segun Atanda/

 

American civil rights activist and former presidential aspirant, Rev Jesse Jackson, and his wife, Jacqueline Jackson have been honoured with Yoruba chieftaincy titles at the African Festival of the Arts holding at Washington Park, in Chicago.

Rev Jackson was conferred with the title of Grand Baba and his wife, fondly called Jackie, was crowned Grand Yeye.

NewsmakersNG learnt that they were celebrated for their advocacy together promoting educational excellence and economic enterprise for African-Americans.

‘Today, the Jackson’s continue their advocacy together promoting educational excellence and economic enterprise for African Americans. Chicago is a better place because they chose to make this their home base.’

The Jackson’s nearly 60-year relationship was described as an American success story writ large.

According to the organizers of the event, the Jacksons were married in 1962; they are the parents of five, the leaders of a national organization serving thousands (Operation PUSH), and well known across the world to millions.

Of their life together, Jackie Jackson was quoted saying: “I knew we would be doing great things.”

Great things indeed. From their role in the 60’s civil rights movement, where Rev. Jackson served as a lieutenant to Rev. Martin Luther King. Through Jackson’s two runs for President of the United States, to their joint involvement in international affairs, the couple has been a force in changing the status quo.

For her part, Mrs Jackson has visited Mideast war zones to see the effects on women and children. She has travelled to world hotspots like Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua, but always relished her role as a mother.

Of her children, she has said, “Your children are a statement.”

The colourful audience in Chicago were told as the titles were being conferred: “Today, the Jackson’s continue their advocacy together promoting educational excellence and economic enterprise for African Americans. Chicago is a better place because they chose to make this their home base. With the theme of the 29th Annual African Festival of the Arts being “love” we are pleased to honour their partnership, their advocacy and their love for all of mankind.”

The event also witnessed a Fashion Show, special performances and award presentations.

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