Elgin Nelson
Rev. Dr. Frederick Douglass Haynes III, who assumed the role of president and CEO of Rev. Jesse Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition, has resigned from his position, only three months after taking the role. Haynes was appointed as the successor to Rev. Jesse Jackson last year, is also the senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, TX.
Haynes aimed to expand the coalition’s work after being chosen by Jackson to succeed him after years of collaboration. Despite stepping down, Haynes pledged his ongoing support for the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, while thanking those who supported him during his tenure.
Haynes released the following statement expressing his decision to resign, citing prayer and deliberation:
“After continual prayer and deliberation, I have decided to step down from the position of Chief Executive Officer and President of Rainbow Push Coalition (RPC), effective immediately. I remain committed to honoring the rich history of RPC and the legacy of its esteemed leader, the incomparable Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr., and, most significantly, to the calling and pursuit of social justice. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have expressed their support since my appointment in July of last year. Rest assured that my work in the fight for liberation and freedom continues.”
Rev. Jesse Jackson also accepted Haynes’ decision to step down on behalf of the organization’s Board of Trustees and thanked him for his service.
“We are grateful to Rev. Haynes for his service and leadership, continuing the work of our founder and President Emeritus Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. Our relationship with Rev. Haynes has been blessed by God to last over 30 great years. We remain eternal partners in the fight for peace, civil rights and economic justice.”
“As we look forward, the Rainbow Push Coalition will continue to work for people and their right to fight for self-determination, and social and economic justice. We will carry on the vital work of protecting, defending, and gaining civil rights by leveling the economic and educational playing fields. Our commitment to promoting peace and justice around the world remains unwavering.”
Following Haynes’ resignation, Jesse Jackson announced that his son, Yusef Jackson, will continue to serve as Chief Operating Officer of the organization.
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, founded by Jesse Jackson in 1971, is dedicated to advocate for civil rights and social justice. Despite Haynes’ departure, the organization reaffirmed its commitment to its mission under Jackson’s leadership. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, formerly known as Operation PUSH, continues to champion causes such as minority hiring and voter registration drives.