TRIBUTE TO CHRISTINE OSBURN JACKSON

TRIBUTE TO CHRISTINE OSBURN JACKSON

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 51 (Friday, March 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 51 (Friday, March 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E247-E248] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO CHRISTINE OSBURN JACKSON _____ HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN of south carolina in the house of representatives Friday, March 20, 2026 Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of an extraordinary woman, Mrs. Christine Osburn Jackson, who entered eternal rest on February 25, 2026, at the age of 97. Mrs. Jackson's life was defined by courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. For more than three decades, she stood at the helm of the YWCA of Greater Charleston, transforming it into a beacon of hope, justice, and opportunity for countless individuals across her community. Born in Marion, Alabama, to Roland and Cornelia Scott Osburn, Christine Jackson was shaped early by faith, family, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. Her upbringing, rooted in church and community, instilled in her the values that would guide her life's work. She pursued higher education in home economics and carried those skills with her as tools for empowerment and service. Early on, Mrs. Jackson proved she was a trailblazer, yet another reminder of her resilience and perseverance as a Black woman of her generation. In 1963, she and her husband, the late Reverend Dr. Eddie L. Jackson, Sr., made their way to Charleston, South Carolina, where her journey with the YWCA began humbly with teaching a sewing class. What followed was nothing short of transformation. In 1966, she assumed leadership of a segregated institution during one of the most pivotal periods in our Nation's history. With quiet strength and steady determination, she helped guide the YWCA through the turbulence of the civil rights struggle, ensuring that the Y's mission aligned with the principles of equality and inclusion. Under her visionary leadership, the YWCA of Greater Charleston became a cornerstone of the community. Mrs. Jackson championed programs that registered voters, supported young mothers, and provided educational and leadership opportunities for youth. She helped establish initiatives such as the Tribute to Women in Industry (TWIN), elevating the contributions of women across the region, and played a central role in creating Charleston's annual Martin Luther King, Jr., commemorations--ensuring that Dr. King's legacy would live on in both word and action. Her influence extended far beyond organizational leadership. During the 1969 Charleston Hospital Strike, the YWCA served as a meeting place for those seeking justice, and Mrs. Jackson stood among those committed to advancing civil rights. She was connected personally and historically to this movement, sharing close ties to the family of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and carrying forward the spirit of service and sacrifice that defined that era. Even in retirement, Mrs. Jackson remained a guiding force, ever hopeful and steadfast in her belief that ``the good in people will always outweigh the bad.'' Her life's work was made possible not only by her leadership but also by her unique ability to bring people together in the service of a greater cause. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children, Moshe Rashad and Kim Jackson; her bonus son, Jeremy Lamar Jackson; and a host of grandchildren, family, and friends who will carry her legacy forward. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in honoring the remarkable life of Mrs. Christine Osburn Jackson. She was a trailblazer, a servant leader, and a pillar of her community. Her legacy of service, justice, and faith will continue to inspire generations to come. [[Page E248]] ____________________