Reverend Jackson and our father were from South Carolina with an innate sense for freedom and a belief that we as a people should stand up for that freedom. Both men were leaders in the civil rights movement fighting the good fight for equality.
Many times over the years I remember seeing Reverend Jackson at dad’s shows. As I would listen in on their conversations sometimes, they would discuss those issues affecting black people, those who are marginalized and without representation. My father and Reverend Jackson knew what it was like to not have. Both men coming from the segregated south did not stop them from standing up and speaking out for people’s rights.
Their friendship lasted over 40 years. We, as a family, were very thankful that Reverend Jackson took time to attend and speak at dad’s funeral. I remember the words he shared with me, “move quietly letting no one know your moves.”
Thank you Reverend Jackson for standing up , speaking out for the people and being a strong a Freedom Fighter.
Deanna Brown Thomas
President of The James Brown Family Foundation.
