Philadelphia faith leaders reflect on Rev. Jesse Jackson's legacy after his death at 84

The world is mourning the loss of a civil rights giant tonight. Reverend Jesse Jackson is being remembered as a trailblazer who changed politics for generations. He worked tirelessly to mobilize black voters, but his reach was bigger than that, building a rainbow coalition to prove that a wide range of people deserve to have their voices heard. It is Tuesday night, and the Big Story in Action News is remembering the life and legacy of the Reverend Jesse Jackson. The 84-year-old civil rights leader and two-time presidential candidate died peacefully this morning in his sleep, according to his family. Jackson worked tirelessly for underrepresented communities in both the U.S. and abroad. He was considered the protege of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He met with countless world leaders, and he created the Rainbow Push Coalition to empower multiracial political power. Reverend Al Sharpton is paying tribute tonight, saying Jackson was his mentor. He was one who was more responsible than anyone for teaching me activism. Jesse Jackson changed the civil rights movement. He was a consequential and transformative figure. Reverend Jesse Jackson is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, and six children. His family has requested that his memory be honored by continuing the fight for justice, equality, and human rights. Let's bring in now Action News reporter Taronda Thomas, who's live at Triumph Baptist Church in Tioga-Knightstown. And Taronda, the pastor there had a major influence on Jesse Jackson throughout his life and career. He absolutely did, Rick. In fact, many would say he's the person who inspired Jesse Jackson to be the man he was. In fact, Jackson spoke here at Triumph's current location, as well as its previous location, about seven times. The lead pastor here, as well as leaders across the city, say he will be missed. Keep hope alive. Keep hope alive. It was the news everyone woke up to. When my wife told me this morning that he had passed away. But no one could believe. And that got me. Civil rights icon and politician, Reverend Jesse Jackson, gone at the age of 84. I think he was one of the great speakers of our time. Reverend James Hall, Jr. of Triumph Baptist Church in Tioga-Knightstown, remembers Jackson as both the spirited speaker and the talented teen he first met in South Carolina. I would go to football games and see him play football. It was Reverend Hall who baptized Jesse Jackson, inspiring his faith and his activism. He was consistent in his beliefs. And he didn't compromise. He was very approachable. Reverend William B. Moore of 10th Memorial Baptist Church in North Philadelphia went from being inspired by Jackson to helping with Operation Push in Philadelphia. For him, the pulpit was not something that was confined to the four walls of the church. But he really took the pulpit out into the world. That inspiring spirit took Jackson across the country as he ran for president in 1984 and 1988, with a Philadelphia political legend, the late Lucian Blackwell, helping. His wife, former Philadelphia City Council member Janie Blackwell, recalled how important Philadelphia was to Jackson. When you knew he was coming or when he was here, it was absolutely exciting. He was one of those personalities. Though saddened by Jackson's death, the local leaders who knew him say his legacy is evident and enduring. He brought people together of all faiths, all denominations. He wanted to make this world a better place, and he did everything he could to make that happen. Reverend Hall says Jackson was also particularly passionate about economic freedom and equality. He hopes that, too, is part of his lasting legacy. Toronto, thank you for that report tonight.