FAITH LEADERS TO RECEIVE THE REV. JESSE L. JACKSON SR. FREEDOM & JUSTICE AWARD AT ANNUAL RAINBOW PUSH CONFERENCE IN CHICAGO


FAITH LEADERS TO RECEIVE THE REV. JESSE L. JACKSON SR. FREEDOM & JUSTICE AWARD AT ANNUAL RAINBOW PUSH CONFERENCE IN CHICAGO

 

The National Conference will be the first since the passing of founder Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. and will focus on democracy, civil rights, and economic justice for every generation.  

 

Rainbow PUSH announced on this past Thursday that it would honor three faith leaders during its annual national convention taking place June 10–13, 2026, at its headquarters in Chicago.

This year’s convention, themed “Fulfilling the American Promise,” will bring together leaders, advocates, and community members from across the country at a pivotal moment in American history. The convention programming will examine what organizers describe as a growing gap between the ideals of American democracy and the lived realities of the millions who call this country home. Throughout the three-day gathering, attendees will hear from elected officials, nationally recognized civil rights leaders, policy experts, movement organizers, faith leaders, media executives, and cultural voices for critical conversations on the issues shaping the nation’s future.

“My father, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., believed deeply in the power of the gospel and the pulpit to transform communities and move people to action. Throughout his life, he worked hand in hand with faith leaders to advance justice, equality, and human dignity’ said Yusef Jackson, CEO of Rainbow PUSH. ‘As part of this year’s Conference — the first since my father’s passing — we wanted to honor just a few of the many faith leaders who stood beside him and who continue to serve as beacons of hope through their leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to our communities.”

The Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. Freedom & Justice Award will be presented to three prestigious and accomplished faith leaders: Bishop Michael Eddy, Bishop Byron Brazier, and Reverend Dr. Jeremiah Wright.

This recognition comes at a historic time for the faith community following the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson, whose moral leadership and steadfast commitment to civil rights continue to influence ministers and community leaders today.

Additional information on each of the honorees are listed below. Final Conference programming and event details will be announced next week.

Reverend Dr. Jeremiah Wright joined the Trinity United Church of Christ in 1972. Within a matter of months, he demonstrated an understanding and deep commitment to help Trinity UCC achieve its motto and vision. The motto, "Unashamedly Black and Unapologetically Christian," was coined by his predecessor, the Reverend Dr. Reuben Sheares, and officially adopted by the congregation shortly after Pastor Wright began his ministry. As Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, IL, where he served for 36 years, Dr. Wright combined his studies of West African music and Judeo-Christian thought to create over 70 ministries to address the needs of the community and to enrich the lives and faith of his congregants by moving ministry, as stated in his own words, “from theory to praxis.”

 

Bishop Michael Eddy of the People’s Church of the Harvest, Church of God in Christ, has extended a holistic ministry in Chicago, IL, for over 44 years and was elevated to Bishop in April of 2026. Initiating and developing programs and services to meet the needs of youth, adults, and suffering humanity. His community commitment continues as a member of the Chicago Police Board, Commissioner of the Illinois Medical District (IMD), and board member of the Coalition of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago.

 

Bishop Byron Brazier served his father for 13 years before being named pastor of the Apostolic Church of God in 2008 and Bishop of the Apostolic Church of God - Chicago in 2026. As an advocate for the community, Dr. Brazier continues to ensure that the church remains a beacon of light and an agent of change. Through the establishment of the Bishop Arthur M. Brazier Foundation, Dr. Brazier has secured philanthropic support for the development of the Woodlawn community in education, public safety, and economic development.

Rainbow PUSH invites members, supporters, and all those committed to civil rights, human dignity, and social justice to attend.

For more information and to register, visit: https://rainbowpushconference.com/

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