The Rev. Jesse Jackson.
Acting Governor Tregenza Roach has directed that all Virgin Islands flags at Government House and on public buildings throughout the territory be flown at half-staff beginning Thursday, February 19 through sunset on Thursday, February 26 in honor of The Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr.
According to Government House, the order recognizes the life and legacy of Jesse Jackson, Sr., who died on February 17, 2026. The civil rights leader and ordained minister is being remembered as a national and iconic figure whose advocacy spanned decades.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential activists of his era, Jesse Jackson, Sr. championed the rights of all people and focused particularly on civil rights for the poor, underprivileged, and underrepresented. He was known for taking an active stance against police brutality, institutionalized racism, and the oppression of people of color.
Jackson worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement and later emerged as one of the most prominent civil rights leaders of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Throughout his career, he led efforts to unify America’s increasingly diverse population, centering his message on poor and working-class citizens. Following his presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, Jesse Jackson, Sr. became recognized as an elder statesman within the Democratic Party.
As part of the tribute, Acting Governor Roach has called upon residents to pause in remembrance while flags are lowered in recognition of Jackson’s life and service.
The half-staff order remains in effect through sunset on February 26, 2026.
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