Ethel Kennedy, Champion of Justice and Human Rights, Dies at 96

Ethel Kennedy, Human Rights Icon and RFK's Widow, Passes Away at 96

As the wife of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, Ethel stood by his side through thick and thin, supporting his presidential ambitions...

Ethel Kennedy, widow of Robert F. Kennedy, passes away at 96. A champion of human rights and social justice, she leaves behind a legacy of compassion and advocacy.

Ethel Kennedy, a devoted wife, mother of 11, and champion of human rights, has left an indelible mark on American history. She passed away on October 10, 2024, at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to social justice.

As the wife of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, Ethel stood by his side through thick and thin, supporting his presidential ambitions and advocating for civil rights. After his tragic assassination in 1968, Ethel continued to raise their 11 children alone, while also founding the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights.

Throughout her life, Ethel received numerous accolades for her tireless work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014, awarded by President Barack Obama. Her impact extends far beyond her family's legacy, inspiring generations to fight for human rights, environmental protection, and social justice.

A Life of Purpose:

Early Life: Born on April 11, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, Ethel grew up in a devout Catholic family.

Marriage and Family: She married Robert F. Kennedy in 1950 and had 11 children with him.

Human Rights Advocacy: Ethel founded the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights in 1968.

Legacy: She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014 for her dedication to social justice and human rights.

As the devoted wife of Senator Robert Kennedy, whom she married in 1950, Ethel bore eleven children. Her enduring legacy is deeply intertwined with the iconic Kennedy family, particularly the storied Camelot era.

Ethel Kennedy's life took a dramatic turn in 1968 when her husband, Robert Kennedy, was assassinated at Los Angeles' Ambassador Hotel during his presidential campaign. Just 40 years old, Ethel found herself suddenly widowed.

Despite the tragedy, Ethel persevered, channeling her energy into advocacy and philanthropy. She declined to remarry, instead focusing on promoting gun control and supporting various causes.

In the aftermath of Robert's assassination, Ethel founded the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights. This organization became a testament to her dedication to global peace and human rights.

While Ethel occasionally spent summers at the Kennedy family's iconic Hyannis Port estate, she largely stepped back from public life. Her legacy, however, continues to inspire generations.

Ethel Kennedy's remarkable life journey began to take shape in 1945 when she met Jean Kennedy at Manhattanville College of the Sacred Heart. The two became fast friends and roommates, marking the start of Ethel's enduring connection to the Kennedy family. This friendship would eventually lead her to Robert F. Kennedy, whom she married in 1950.

Years later, Ethel's tireless advocacy for social justice, human rights, environmental protection, and poverty reduction earned her the nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. President Barack Obama presented her with this prestigious award in 2014, acknowledging her profound impact on countless lives worldwide. During the ceremony, Obama praised Ethel's “generosity and grace,” highlighting her unwavering dedication to creating positive change.

Through her work with the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights, which she founded after her husband's assassination in 1968, Ethel continued to champion the causes closest to her heart. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of compassion, perseverance, and commitment to creating a more just and peaceful world.

In 2021, Ethel Kennedy broke her usual silence with a powerful public statement, vehemently opposing the potential parole of Sirhan Sirhan, the man responsible for her husband's assassination. Despite the California parole board's initial recommendation for release, Ethel's words carried significant weight, and Governor Gavin Newsom ultimately intervened to block Sirhan's parole.

Ethel Kennedy's statement underscored the enduring pain and trauma inflicted by Robert Kennedy's tragic death. Her advocacy ensured that justice was served, and Sirhan Sirhan remained accountable for his heinous crime.

This rare public intervention highlighted Ethel's unwavering commitment to preserving her husband's legacy and protecting the integrity of the justice system.