CBC HONORS JESSE JACKSON'S PRESIDENTIAL RUN: Members paid tribute to 25th anniversary of activist's first White House campaign.

       In successive one-minute speeches in a nearly empty chamber on Wednesday (Nov. 18), caucus members praised Jackson as a trailblazer whose presidential runs in 1984 and 1988 were important steps toward President Obama's election last year.       

       Jesse Jackson looked on as his son Rep. Jesse L. Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.) presided over the first hour of House business and CBC members stepped to the microphone, reports the Washington Post.       

       "We really benefited from his unbelievable work," said caucus chairman Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), who was twice a Jackson delegate at Democratic Party conventions. "He paved the way for many of us to run for Congress and other elected offices. He showed us how to build a serious grass-roots movement that cut across race and class."       

       Lee was followed by 11 other CBC members and Rep. Dennis J. Kucinich (D-Ohio).       

       Jackson called the tributes "a joy." "I remember talking to President Barack about it," he said. "He was a student at Columbia in 1984, watching the debate. To see so many people gain traction in that season is really gratifying, but I see many people whose spirits are now challenged as they grapple with this sinking economy."       

       The CBC's recognition of his career will continue at a "Discussion on Race" event Wednesday night.