Dallas Pastor Freddy Haynes was installed as the head of civil rights organization Rainbow Push in February and has decided to vacate the post less thatn 3 months later. Haynes released a statement announcing his abrupt resignation on Tuesday. A reason for the pivot was not given.
The organization that was started by the Rev. Jesse Jackson in 1971 has been a source of support for a vast range of issues facing the African American community of over it 52 year existence. Jackson himself, who had been suffering from Parkinson's disease when he stepped down, handpicked 63-year-old Haynes to be his successor. In a follow-up video to the initial announcement that was written on Rainbow Push letterhead, Haynes called Jackson his personal hero and committed his continued advocacy for the organization's cause. He said it was "necessary" to resign "in light of the huge challenges facing our community."
Haynes has ben the pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Chruch in Dallas for 40 years where he simultaneously maintained his post while leading the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
Given the pomp and circumstance surrounding the leadership transition and failure to elaborate on the brevity of his service in the organization, it is apparent that something is awry. It was a sold out gala event at the Black Academy of Arts and Letters with attendees form around the nation. The response Dr. Haynes provided describes moving on to do work that he could have presumably done within his post as the head of Rainbow PUSH. Yet, his decision to pursue social justice matters in a "another lane" outside of the organization subtly suggests there may have been internal conflict.
Houston Style magazine cited financial challenges as the basis of Haynes stepping down. Sources close to RPC revealed that financial woes had plagued the organization, contributing to Dr. Haynes’ difficult decision. While neither Dr. Haynes nor Rev. Jackson could be reached for comment
Rev. Jackson accepted the resignation in a separate statement. Jackson's son Attorney Yusef Jackson will continue in the capacity of COO. A replacement was not mentioned.
"We will carry on the vital work of protecting, defending, and gaining civil rights by leveling the economic and educational playing fields," Leader Emeritus Jackson said. “Our commitment to promoting peace and justice around the world remains unwavering.”
The Slice News is awaiting a response from Pastor Haynes.