Reporter Accuses Jesse Jackson Of Sexual Harassment

Danielle Young and Jesse Jackson

Civil rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson has been accused of sexual harassment by a journalist who says the Chicago community leader grabbed her thigh while making a crude comment, according to WMAQ-TV5 Chicago

Writer Danielle Young, in an article for "The Root," accused Jackson of making the "unwanted" advance and comment during a photo-op after a media event.

"I walked toward Jackson, smiling, and he smiled back at me," Young wrote. "His eyes scanned my entire body. All of a sudden, I felt naked in my sweater and jeans. As I walked within arm’s reach of him, Jackson reached out a hand and grabbed my thigh, saying, 'I like all of that right there!' and gave my thigh a tight squeeze."

The post included several photos of the encounter in which Young writes "don't let the smile fool you. I'm cringing on the inside."

A representative for Jackson's Rainbow PUSH Coalition said "Although Rev. Jackson does not recall the meeting three years ago, he profoundly and sincerely regrets any pain Ms. Young may have experienced."