Dallas megachurch pastor steps down as head of Rainbow PUSH Coalition
DALLAS — The Dallas megachurch pastor who recently took over as the president and CEO of Reverend Jesse Jackson's Rainbow PUSH Coalition is stepping down.
In July, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition officially transferred leadership to Reverend Dr. Frederick Douglass Haynes III as Rev. Jesse Jackson transitioned to emeritus status. Haynes was installed as president and CEO at his Dallas church, Friendship West Baptist Church.
Now, Haynes is stepping down less than a year after he was named the successor.
Haynes released the following statement announcing his resignation:
"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."
Jesse Jackson established the civil rights and social justice organization in 1971.
Following Haynes' resignation, Jesse Jackson said his son, Yusef Jackson will continue to serve as Chief Operating Officer.
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."
Haynes' decision to step down was first announced by Roland Martin on his Black Star Network.