Jesse Jackson and Several Other Protesters Detained Outside the U.S. Capitol

The Reverend Jesse Jackson was detained on Wednesday along with 20 other protesters outside the U.S. Capitol during a protest demanding the abolishment of the filibuster.

While there is no indication that Jackson was handcuffed at any period, he and other demonstrators were cited for crowding or obstructing. It is unknown at this time if the civil rights activist will face formal charges.

The 79-year-old, who suffers from Parkinson’s disease, had to be assisted by his son and another demonstrator as U.S. Capitol Police escorted him away.

Along with Jackson, Bishop William Barber II was also taken into custody as he blasted Senators Joe Manchin and Mitch McConnell for rejecting the For the People Act and for failing to support a $15 minimum wage.

The demonstration, which the Poor People’s Campaign organized, went on for two hours before police intervened.

Protesters marched with signs and fists held high from the Supreme Court to the front of the Hart Senate Building. Barber reportedly stood in the middle of Constitution Avenue with hundreds of demonstrators behind him, calling out Manchin specifically.

Went to visit a friend at the Capitol & walk into the #PoorPeoplesCampaign protest over the #FILIBUSTER. Next thing I know, Rev. Jesse Jackson & Pastor Dr. William Barber II are getting arrested! pic.twitter.com/x6YRw2IUCI

— Shardé M. Davis, Ph.D. (@DrShardeDavis) June 23, 2021