Jesse Jackson A Real Inspiration - Teather

6.00.00pm GMT Thu 23rd Aug 2007

Stonebridge community activist Sandra Wiltshire (left) was honoured to meet Jesse Jackson (right)

Brent's Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Teather was in Stonebridge today to welcome civil rights activist Reverend Jesse Jackson Snr. to the borough.

Reverend Jackson, a renowned civil rights leader who worked alongside Martin Luther King and was the first Black presidential candidate, was attending an event organised by Brent community radio station Life FM.

He is in the UK on a ten day visit aimed at encouraging more people to use their right to vote. Reverend Jackson will commemorate the abolition of the slave trade and highlight the economic contribution of Black and Minority ethnic communities in the UK past and present.

Reverend Jackson also met Liberal Democrat community activist Sandra Wiltshire.

Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East Sarah Teather said:

"It was great to see Jesse Jackson in Brent, particularly as he was here to promote such an important message.

"We really must encourage more people to use their vote, particularly those who are currently underrepresented such as young people, or those from Black and Ethnic Minorities.

"Black and Minority Ethnic people have made a huge contribution to life in the UK and we must make sure their voice is heard at the ballot box."

Sandra Wiltshire (left) and Jaqueline Jackson (right) think it's important for more Black and Ethnic Minority people to vote

Liberal Democrat Stonebridge Campaigner Sandra Wiltshire said:

"I was so excited and inspired to shake Jesse Jackson's hand. Like many young, black Britons I have admired him my whole life.

"Jesse Jackson has led the way for Black and Ethnic Minority people in public life. He is a real inspiration for those of us who want to get involved in politics and make a difference in our community."

Related Links:

Life FM.

More on Jesse Jackson's UK tour.