CHICAGO – Marsy’s Law for Illinois State Director Jennifer Bishop Jenkins issued the following statement after the announcement of the passing of legendary civil rights leader Reverend Jesse Jackson:
“As the world both mourns his loss and celebrates his legacy, Reverend Jesse Jackson’s extraordinary impact on advancing the cause of crime victims' rights should not be overlooked. Reverend Jackson played an essential role in the successful effort to add Marsy’s Law not just to the Illinois Constitution, but also a number of state constitutions across the country. Reverend Jackson led the victims’ rights movement with his eloquent and repeated public statements defining victims’ rights as being integral to the very definition of civil rights. As Reverend Jackson repeatedly said, ‘Victims' Rights ARE Civil Rights!’
The entire Marsy’s Law organization was privileged to work at Reverend Jackson’s side and hold the deepest gratitude for the work that Reverend Jackson did on behalf of crime victims, including personally and repeatedly lobbying for its passage in several states. We know this is just one of the many ways that Reverend Jackson changed the world. He will be deeply missed, but his remarkable legacy will live on without end.”