MSU will benefit from a visit from another prominent figure as students might have the chance to have their fears and concerns about life after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks eased by a remarkable world leader.
The Rev. Jesse Jackson has verbally committed to speak on campus Sept. 15.
Jackson is expected to make a speech focusing on finding peace after the Sept. 11 attacks at the event, called “Rally for Peace: From Fears and Tears to Hope and Harmony.”
The event is expected to be held at Breslin Center. MSU undergraduate student government officials said several student speakers have been tentatively scheduled for the program as well.
This is an excellent opportunity for MSU students to learn from a prominent leader and move on from Sept. 11.
Not only that, Jackson’s presence alone brings recognition to the university.
The civil rights activist is the founder and leader of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, a national group that aims to increase educational and employment opportunities for minorities.
He was appointed by Martin Luther King Jr. to direct the Southern Christian Leadership Conference’s Operation Breadbasket program in 1965.
Jackson ran for president in 1984 in 1988. He won the Michigan primary during his 1988 presidential campaign.
He began his activism during the 1960s, when as a student he protested the segregation of Greenville’s, S.C., public libraries. He has since advocated national health care and a war on drugs, ending apartheid in South Africa, advancing democracy in Haiti and peace negotiation between Palestinians and Israelis.
He was the first American to bring hostages out of Kuwait and Iraq in 1990 and help negotiate the release of U.S. soldiers held hostage in Kosovo in 1999.
Jackson also has received 40 honorary doctorate degrees, and was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, in 2000.
MSU stands to benefit from having Jackson, who has reportedly agreed to speak without a fee, on campus. And students might find in Jackson’s words the inspiration to help make a positive change in the world.
Students will have the chance to learn from an esteemed individual and major player on the world’s stage who is more than qualified to inspire them to keep hope alive.
Jackson personifies next week’s theme of finding peace, unity, harmony and hope, which will encourage Spartans to remain hopeful for the future of our country’s safety.
MSU students are fortunate to have the opportunity to hear the strong voice of a renowned leader on campus. We hope all seize the opportunity to hear his words.
