Michelle Obama absent from another high-profile event | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleJosh MarcusSaturday 07 March 2026 01:42 GMTObama laments the Trump era as he points to Jesse Jackson's exampleMichelle Obama was notably absent from the memorial service for civil rights icon Rev. Jesse Jackson in Chicago.The service was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton, along with Kamala Harris and Hillary Clinton.President Donald Trump did not attend the service due to scheduling conflicts, but sent a video tribute.The Obamas had a long-standing relationship with Rev. Jackson, with Barack Obama crediting him for paving the way for his own political career.Michelle Obama has previously stated her intentional decision to reduce public appearances, including funerals and inaugurations, to define her own choices.In fullMichelle Obama raises eyebrows again by skipping Jesse Jackson’s memorial serviceThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in