Graphic by Desmond Cole

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

As we continue to observe Black History Month in February, we pause to remember a person who would have been a great President of the United States, Jesse Jackson, who passed away on February 17, 2026. He gave us words of hope and a life of dedication to justice. His voice was the voice of the rejected, the marginalized, and the despised. We give thanks for his life and work as we continue the struggle against tyranny, authoritarianism, and injustice in all its forms. Ponder the words of Jesse Jackson and let us begin the healing anew for the sake of our nation and all the world:

“Our flag is red, white and blue, but our nation is a rainbow — red, yellow, brown, black and white — and we’re all precious in God’s sight,” he said. “America is not like a blanket — one piece of unbroken cloth, the same color, the same texture, the same size. America is more like a quilt — many patches, many pieces, many colors, many sizes, all woven and held together by a common thread.”

The Interfaith Peace Project will continue to observe every month as Black History Month. Now, more than ever, it is important to teach and promote the true and actual history of Black America. Now is the time to confront racism and bigotry. Now is the time for people to cross the boundaries of fear and prejudice. Now is the time for everyone to stand up for the cause of peace for the sake of everybody.

In this moment of our Nation’s history, we hear his stirring and challenging words again and anew:

“You must not surrender. You may or may not get there, but just know that you’re qualified and you hold on and hold out. We must never surrender. America will get better and better. Keep hope alive. Keep hope alive. Keep hope alive. On tomorrow night and beyond, keep hope alive.”