HARRISBURG — Gov. Josh Shapiro on Monday ordered United States and Commonwealth flags on all Commonwealth facilities, public buildings and grounds to fly at half staff on Saturday, March 7 in honor of the Rev. Jesse Jackson, who passed away earlier this month.

All Pennsylvanians are invited to participate in this tribute, which will coincide with the last day of memorial services scheduled for Jackson, a civil rights activist and Baptist minister who championed the Civil Rights Movement. Jackson made numerous visits to Pennsylvania throughout his life of service, advocating for labor and civil rights.

In October 2024, the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus hosted Jackson for a ceremony in which the General Assembly recognized his efforts in founding the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which advocates for civil rights, economic equality, voting rights and social justice.

“(The) Rev. Jesse Jackson was a change maker, a boundary breaker, and a passionate and unrelenting crusader for civil rights, equality and opportunity. To be around him felt like you were experiencing history,” Shapiro said in a post on X. “Lori and I are praying for his wife Jacqueline, his family, and everyone he inspired over the years.”

Flags shall remain lowered until sunset on Saturday, March 7.