The Bronx Celebrates “Warrior Queen” Bessie Mae Jackson’s 99 Years of Life and Legacy at Gala

by Louise Dente
The Bronx was alive with celebration on Saturday, March 8, as family, friends, and community members gathered to honor Bessie Mae Jackson’s remarkable life on her 99th birthday. The grand gala, held at the Eastwood Manor, was a heartfelt tribute to a woman whose dedication to education, writing, and community activism has left an indelible mark on the lives of many.

Throughout the evening, guests shared stories and memories, reflecting on the profound impact Bessie has had in their lives and the community. Her commitment to activism and education was highlighted in a series of proclamations and speeches that recounted her journey, from her early days as a teacher to her influential role in advocating for African American history.

Bessie Jackson is not just a birthday celebrant; she is a lifelong educator and a passionate advocate for African American history. For decades, she has served as the New York State Director of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), championing the importance of recognizing and celebrating African Americans’ contributions to society. In 2020, she became the founder of bill#506658, known as Abolition Commemoration Day in New York State.

A dedicated educator and community activist, Mrs. Jackson led the movement to establish a holiday commemorating the abolition of slavery in New York. In 2004, she spearheaded efforts to celebrate Emancipation Day at the United Christian Baptist Church, Rev. Reginald Parris, Pastor — which marked the historic moment when New York began to confront its legacy of slavery. This annual event continued until 2006, laying the groundwork for future initiatives.

Recognizing the importance of remembering this pivotal chapter in history, Jackson and her supporters organized a series of prayer breakfasts starting in 2007. These gatherings focused on advocating for the abolition of slavery in New York State to be officially recognized as a holiday.

Community leaders, educators, and activists came together, signing petitions and approaching politicians to rally support for this vital cause.
The campaign gained traction, but significant legislative progress was made only in 2018. The Abolition Commemoration Day Bill was placed on the state calendar on August 7, 2019.

This bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Gary Pretlow and co-sponsored by Speaker of the NYS Assembly Carl Heastie, marked a critical step toward formal recognition. On August 21, 2019, a parallel effort was led by then-State Senator Jamaal Bailey, who introduced Bill #506658, co-sponsored by then-Senator Brian Benjamin.

This legislation sought to declare the second Monday in July Abolition Commemoration Day, honoring the Abolition Act passed by New York State legislators on March 31, 1817, which abolished slavery in the state effective July 4, 1827.

The culmination of these efforts came on July 22, 2020, when the bill was passed by the New York State Legislature. It was signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo on October 7, 2020, marking a historic victory for advocates of social justice and recognition of the African American experience in New York.

Bessie Jackson’s unwavering dedication to this cause reflects her lifelong commitment to education and community empowerment. By championing the establishment of Abolition Commemoration Day, Mrs. Jackson has ensured that future generations will remember and honor the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom and equality in New York.

One of the presenters, distinguished scholar Dr. William Seraile, Professor Emeritus of African & African American History at Lehman College, described Bessie Jackson as a “Warrior Queen in the struggle to disseminate African American history to a wider audience.”

Seraile also went on to say that it was, in fact, Bessie who first advocated for the use of the term “African American” two years before Rev Jessie Jackson did during an appearance on the legendary Gary Byrd show on WLIB Radio.

Throughout the evening, guests shared stories and memories, reflecting on the profound impact Bessie has had on their lives and the community. Her commitment to activism and education was highlighted in a series of proclamations, including one from Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and speeches that recounted her journey, from her early days as a teacher to her influential role in advocating for African American history.

From the start to the end of the event, guests were treated to an atmosphere of joy and reverence. The warm ambiance was enhanced by the rhythmic beats of the African percussion group led by Atiba Wilson and Songhai D’jeli, who performed a vibrant selection of music celebrating African heritage and culture.

As the night progressed, Bessie took to the mic and thanked all who made the event possible. She was overwhelmed by the love she received in that hall.