The new president and CEO of Rainbow PUSH Coalition says he’s learned so much from the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. that he’s basically a graduate of University of Jesse Jackson Sr.

The Rev. Frederick Haynes III is only sort of kidding. He has learned so much from the Jackson that Haynes’ Dallas church will become home to a southern Rainbow PUSH Coalition satellite.

As for filling Jackson’s enormous shoes, Haynes says that’s not possible.

“I stand here on the shoulders of one who has literally changed the world,” said Haynes Tuesday at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition Convention.

“When I say I’m standing on his shoulders, it’s because I have too much sense to stand in his shoes. The shoes are much too large,” said Haynes.

He was referring to Jackson’s long history in the Civil Rights movement starting under the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to running for president in 1980 and 1984. Jackson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000. 

“Jesse Jackson has been for us and continue to be a north star for freedom and justice,” said Haynes.

Voter registration, getting out the vote and reparations will be some of the top priorities for Rainbow Push under Haynes.

He’s also focused on the recent Supreme Court decisions on student debt relief and affirmative action.

“The mission and vision of Rainbow PUSH is needed in 2023 as much as in 1973,” Haynes said. “The Supreme Court has declared war on freedom and justice.”