A Dallas pastor who recently took over leadership of the Rev. Jesse Jackson’s civil rights organization has resigned after less than three months in the position. The Rev. Frederick Haynes III confirmed his resignation as president and CEO of the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition, citing the decision as a result of prayer and consultation.
Haynes, 63, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to succeed Rev. Jackson and lead the organization that he founded over 50 years ago. While he did not provide specific details on the challenges prompting his resignation, he emphasized the need to move on.
Rev. Jackson had announced his intention to step down from his role in July and introduced Haynes as his successor. Haynes, who serves as the pastor at Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, was formally installed as president and CEO in a ceremony held in February.
Despite his short tenure, Haynes had already begun working with Rainbow PUSH on advocating for social justice and political activism. He expressed admiration for Rev. Jackson, calling him one of his heroes and a great leader.
Rev. Jackson, known for his significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, has faced health challenges in recent years, including a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. However, the 82-year-old has continued to remain active in public engagements, such as his appearance at a Chicago City Council meeting in January to support a resolution for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
