Clinton Recalls ‘Deep Love’ for Jesse Jackson, Cites ‘Brilliant’ Line

Clinton Shares Personal Reflections on Jesse Jackson’s Impact

Former President Bill Clinton delivered a deeply personal tribute to civil rights leader and minister Jesse Jackson, revealing a profound respect and affection that developed over years of interaction. Speaking at a celebration and memorial service, Clinton reflected on Jackson’s enduring legacy and his ability to connect past struggles with present challenges, particularly highlighting a memorable quote that he considered “brilliant.”

A Shared Background, A Deep Connection

Clinton began by drawing parallels between his own life and Jackson’s, noting their shared experience of being raised by single mothers in the South. This personal connection, he suggested, provided a unique lens through which he came to “truly love” Jackson.

“I came to truly love Jesse Jackson, and we had more in common than he thought. We were both two gods who were born to single mothers, living in the south.”

The former president recounted their first meeting at the 20th anniversary celebration of the integration of Little Rock Central High School. He described the historical significance of the school, once lauded for its beauty and academic prowess, which later became a focal point of the Civil Rights Movement. Clinton, then a 29-year-old attorney general of Arkansas, recalled observing Jackson’s unique approach to activism.

‘Open Your Brains, Not Your Veins’: A Defining Moment

Clinton vividly remembered Jackson addressing a crowd of young people at the Little Rock event. While acknowledging the debt owed to the Little Rock Nine and their supporters, Jackson pivoted to address the pervasive issue of drug use plaguing smaller towns in the Midwest during the late 1970s. It was during this speech that Jackson delivered a line that would resonate deeply with Clinton.

“You owe a lot to the Little Rock Nine who integrated this school. You owe a lot to Daisy Bates and the other people who supported them. You owe a lot to the people who were take this achievement and throw it away on drugs. And then he said, I’ll never forget it… Jesse Jackson looked at these kids and he said, you have to open your brains, not your veins.”

Clinton lauded the quote as “totally brilliant,” recognizing its power to encapsulate personal responsibility, community care, and self-preservation. He marveled at its effectiveness, stating, “No matter how long I live and stay in politics, I may never have a single line that’s that good.”

A Continuing Dialogue, A Lasting Influence

The bond between Clinton and Jackson continued to strengthen. Ten years later, at the 30th anniversary of the Little Rock Central High School integration, Clinton, by then the governor of Arkansas, hosted Jackson at the governor’s mansion – the same place where Governor Orval Faubus had once plotted to prevent integration. A celebratory dinner was held, followed by a late-night, extended conversation between Clinton, Jackson, and Hillary Clinton.

Clinton recounted how he and Jackson continued their discussion long after Hillary had retired for the night, only being ushered to bed by her hours later. This extended dialogue underscored the depth of their engagement and mutual respect.

Jackson’s Role in Shaping a Better Presidency

The former president concluded his remarks by asserting that despite their occasional disagreements, Jesse Jackson’s influence made him a better leader. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of pastors and community leaders present, drawing a parallel to Jackson’s persistent dedication to addressing societal issues.

“We did not always agree, but I’ll tell you one thing, he made me a better president when I got in office.”

Clinton’s reflections highlight Jackson’s multifaceted role as a moral compass, a bridge between historical struggles and contemporary problems, and a source of inspiration for political leaders. The “open your brains, not your veins” adage serves as a powerful reminder of Jackson’s enduring ability to articulate complex social issues with profound clarity and impact.

Looking Ahead

As the nation continues to grapple with issues of social justice, racial equality, and community development, the lessons imparted by figures like Jesse Jackson remain critical. Bill Clinton’s heartfelt tribute underscores the importance of continued dialogue and engagement, emphasizing how listening to and learning from diverse voices can ultimately shape more effective and compassionate leadership.

Source: Pres. Bill Clinton: 'I came to truly love Jesse Jackson' (YouTube)