Dallas pastor steps into role as leader of Jesse Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition

The Rev. Frederick D. Haynes III has been formally installed as the new president and CEO of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, succeeding the Rev. Jesse Jackson. The civil rights group founded by Jackson in the 1970s is elevating a new leader for the first time in more than 50 years. The organization’s work ranges from promoting minority hiring in the corporate world to conducting voter registration drives in communities of color.

Haynes, 62, said, “I’m appreciative of what he’s poured into me, which makes me feel like I’ve been prepared for this experience and this moment.”

Haynes has been senior pastor at Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas for more than 40 years. He will continue leading the Friendship-West Baptist Church while overseeing the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.

Jackson, 82, a powerful voice in American politics who helped guide the modern Civil Rights Movement, has dealt with several health issues in recent years, including Parkinson’s disease. Jackson announced in July 2022 that he would step down. He and Haynes have been working on the transition since the fall.

During an installation ceremony in downtown Dallas, Haynes told those gathered, “I stand not in his shoes but on his shoulders, and because I stand on his shoulders, I hope you stand with me.” Jackson, who uses a wheelchair, was in attendance, but didn’t speak at the ceremony. As Haynes took the stage he shook Jackson’s hand and bowed.

Haynes will remain in Dallas and continue in his role at Friendship-West Baptist Church as he leads the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which will still be based in Chicago.