We should keep asking on Jesse Jr.'s behalf
The former Congressman is taking an admirable stance
Less than a month ago this space was used to exhort Black folk, allies and believers in Democracy to reach out to President Donald Trump asking him to pardon Jesse Jackson, Jr. Jackson served most of the 30 months he was sentenced to; since his release in 2015 it is irrefutable he has been a model citizen.
Former President Joe Biden, after being contacted by Jackson and Jackson’s father the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, ignored their pleas for a pardon; but did grant pardons, as well as preemptory pardons to his son and other family. Bypassing the appeals of the Jackson is a sin for which there is no forgiveness
The focus for a pardonrequest has shifted to President Donald Trump, who to date has not tipped his hand either way when it comes to Jackson, Jr.
In his latest request, Jackson, Jr. took the extremely high road in urging Trump to consider pardons, not only for himself, but also for the 77 million Americans who could have their lives favorably reversed with action from Trump.
It is important to reiterate Jackson’s Jr.’s crime was a victimless one. There was no horde of donors requesting their contributions be returned after his conviction. And if
ever there was an example of leading the right kind of post-incarceration life; Jackson Jr. continues to provide it.
It is extremely perplexing that more Black elected officials, past and present, are not rallying around Jackson, Jr. publicly. While the chances are remote, their voices might be what can bring about a pardon sooner-if at all.
Maybe pleas to Trump regarding a pardon will fall on deaf ears, but it is imperative for that cohort that was named initially to employ an old African-American adage “nothing beats a failure but a try.” And we can’t forget the proverb “but for the grace of God there go I.”
Advocating for Jackson, Jr. won’t change our lives; other than the realization we’re part of making Democracy work. However, it is a step we all need to and should take.