Ethel Kennedy, a prominent human rights activist and the widow of former US Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, passed away at the age of 96, as confirmed by her family. She was hospitalized after suffering a stroke last week, and her grandson, former Massachusetts Rep. Joe Kennedy III, shared the news of her passing.
Throughout her life, Ethel Kennedy dedicated herself to social justice and human rights causes. She leaves behind a large family, including nine children, 34 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren. She was known for her strong Catholic faith and was a daily communicant. Her family finds comfort in knowing that she has been reunited with her late husband, Robert F. Kennedy, as well as other family members who have passed away.
Ethel Kennedy played a significant role in supporting her husband during his political career, including his Senate campaign and his presidential run in 1968, which tragically ended with his assassination. After Robert F. Kennedy’s death, she continued her activism by founding the nonprofit organization Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, which advocated for causes such as environmental protection and human rights.
Her activism took her around the world, from supporting the Farm Workers movement with Cesar Chavez to confronting political leaders like Kenyan dictator Daniel Arap Moi. In 2014, she was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama for her lifelong dedication to social justice.
Despite facing personal tragedies, including the deaths of family members in accidents and overdoses, Ethel Kennedy remained committed to making a positive impact on the world. In 2018, she participated in a hunger strike to protest the separation of families at the US-Mexico border during the Trump administration.
Ethel Kennedy’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations to stand up for justice and equality. Her family has been deeply involved in politics, with her son Robert F. Kennedy Jr. running for president in 2024. Although his campaign faced criticism from some family members, Ethel Kennedy’s commitment to social justice and human rights will always be remembered.
Born in Chicago in 1928, Ethel Kennedy met her husband Robert F. Kennedy in 1945 and they were married in 1950. Their life together was marked by both personal and public challenges, but Ethel Kennedy’s unwavering dedication to making the world a better place will always be remembered.
In conclusion, Ethel Kennedy’s passing is a loss for the human rights community, but her legacy will continue to inspire people to fight for a more just and equitable society. She will be remembered for her tireless advocacy and commitment to making a difference in the world.
