Dallas Pastor Named Head of Civil Rights Organization Founded by Rev. Jessie Jackson Sr.

Dallas (WBAP/KLIF) – A North Texas mega-church pastor was named the new president of the longtime civil rights organization Rainbow Push in Chicago.

On Sunday during a service on the Windy City’s South side, Rev. Jessie Jackson Sr. transferred leadership of the organization he founded over 50 years ago to Rev. Dr. Frederick Haynes III of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas.

Vice President Kamala Harris announced the news during a service, talking up haynes leadership abilities
“to carry on the greatest tradition of the organization and to meet the challenges of this moment.”

Let’s keep hope alive.

(Vice President Harris – Rainbow PUSH Coalition convention) #BidenHarris2024 pic.twitter.com/9U6RRpPWB8
— LP (@lppolitical) July 16, 2023

Reverend Haynes said that the honor felt “so surreal.” Speaking of the iconic civil rights leader, Haynes told WBAP/KLIF’s media partner WFAA-TV, “To think that I can fill those huge shoes is insane, but I can stand on his shoulders…and by that I mean learn from him.” Rev. Jackson who has been battling Parkinson’s Disease for several years will transition to an emeritus role.

Rev. Jesse Jackson arriving at reception at Rainbow PUSH Coalition ahead of expected announcement he will step down as head of the organization @WGNNews pic.twitter.com/7Ug6lixsxb
— Dana Rebik (@DanaRebikWGN) July 14, 2023

Rev. Haynes will retain his senior pastor position at Friendship West.