New York, Feb 18 (NationPress) Jesse Jackson was a key figure in the lineage of civil rights and anti-racism champions, standing alongside his mentors Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela, who drew inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi. In his keynote address marking the 60th anniversary of Gandhi's martyrdom in 2008 in New Delhi, Jackson referred to Gandhi as the "spiritual godfather" of such leaders.

Jackson, who passed away on Tuesday, was a relentless advocate for civil rights in the United States, continuing the non-violent struggle initiated by King, which also paved the way for Indian immigrants.

M.R. Rangaswami, the founder of Indiaspora, shared his condolences, recalling his conversations with Jackson: "The Indian community owes a lasting debt to the African-American community. The courage and sacrifice that led to the Civil Rights Act also enabled immigration reform, welcoming people of color, including many of us!"

Reflecting on Gandhi's timeless influence, Jackson stated in New Delhi, "Even 60 years post his martyrdom, his visions of democracy, peace, and human rights remain vibrant. Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King were visionaries who heard a different rhythm and marched to a unique beat."

Jackson emphasized that Gandhi's aspirations for democracy, decolonization, and human rights continue to gain traction. He noted, "Nuclear warfare and greed are still our adversaries, yet non-violence and Satyagraha—soul force—remain our remedy and the only avenue toward the peace we seek."

Jackson also acknowledged Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's role in India's fight for freedom and decolonization. During his trip to Kolkata in 2014, he wrote in the visitor's book, "Gandhi plus Bose equals Liberation."

In Kolkata, he addressed the Indian Institute of Management, discussing the potential of globalization to enhance the world for everyone.

He proposed that the term "foreigner" should be replaced with common global standards that promote economic justice.

Elaborating on his vision of internationalism, he explained the "Save the House" principle: If a house is ablaze, trying to save just one room is futile; everyone must unite to save the entire structure.

During his bid for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination in 1984, he referenced then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, arguing that if she could lead India, a nation of 600 million, a woman could also serve as his running mate.

Jackson's daughter, Santita, noted that this eventually led to Democratic candidate Walter Mondale choosing Geraldine Ferraro as the first female vice-presidential candidate on a major party's ticket.