Ethel Kennedy, the widow of Robert F. Kennedy, who passed away on September 10, 2023, at the age of 95, left behind not just memories of her remarkable life, but also a legacy intertwined with the social and political movements of the turbulent 1960s. Renowned for her unwavering commitment to social justice, Kennedy was more than just the matriarch of the Kennedy family; she was also a voice for the voiceless during some of America’s most challenging times.
Born on April 11, 1928, Ethel Skakel grew up surrounded by wealth and privilege but chose to dedicate her life to the causes she believed could change the world. After marrying RFK, she embraced his activism and developed her own passion for advocacy, addressing issues related to civil rights, women's rights, and mental health reform. Her marriage to Robert F. Kennedy was filled with both public spotlight and private struggles, but they shared a deep bond characterized by mutual respect and love.
Robert, the younger brother of President John F. Kennedy, was viewed as a political dynamo, and his untimely death on June 6, 1968, only intensified Ethel's commitment to continue his work. Following his assassination, Ethel devoted herself to charities and community service, embodying the spirit of her late husband. She became involved with numerous organizations, including the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights, which was established to promote justice and human rights worldwide.
Throughout her life, Ethel continuously emphasized the importance of standing up for social justice. She famously said, "We must take responsibility... It is our duty to build the world we want to live in." This conviction drove her to rally for educational opportunities and to advocate for mental health, especially highlighting the need for humane treatment of those affected by mental illness. Her commitment to these causes not only stemmed from her experiences but also from her deep-seated belief in compassion and empathy.
Her role as a mother to eleven children—Lisa, Kathleen, Joseph, Robert Jr., David, Courtney, Michael, and her late children, John and Mary, as well as her adopted children, Amy and Douglas—was also significant when considering her legacy. Despite the challenges of raising such a large family, Ethel maintained her commitment to family values, often highlighting the strong familial bonds she admired within the Kennedy clan. Each of her children remains engaged with various social causes, continuing their mother’s commitment to service through their unique paths.
While being surrounded by tragedy, including the assassinations of her husband and brother-in-law, Ethel found resilience through her faith and family. Many who knew her remarked on her incredible strength and grace, noting how she could find light even amid darkness. Her friends described her as someone with unwavering positivity, who focused on building rather than breaking down.
The mark Ethel Kennedy left on American culture and society is undeniable. Her advocacy, often overlooked amid the more prominent political landscapes of her husband and brothers-in-law, continues to inspire new generations to engage with social justice issues today. The RFK Center maintains her legacy alive through its commitment to human rights, integrative approaches to social justice, and empowerment of communities.
Public figures and friends have expressed their condolences following her passing. President Joe Biden stated, "Ethel Kennedy’s courage and grace embodied the spirit of the American people. She devoted her life to fighting for justice and equality for all. The world is dimmer without her."
Similarly, fellow activists and organizations recognized her lifetime of unwavering commitment to advocacy and change. The Kennedy family remains unified and dedicated to her interests, expressing how her values continue to inspire them daily.
Despite Ethel's absence, her legacy doesn’t end; it breathes through the lives she touched and the movements she helped spark. Looking back, it’s clear the impact she had went beyond the walls of her family home. The cause of equality she dedicated her life to continues to thrive through the works of those willing to stand against the tide for justice.
Ethel Kennedy will be remembered not just for her time as the wife of RFK or as the mother of eleven—the quintessential family matriarch—but for her role as one of America’s fiercest advocates for human rights. Many will continue to look to her story as one of hope, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice and equality.
Her funeral is being planned to honor her legacy and the impactful life she lived. Friends, family, and the many lives she has touched are expected to gather to celebrate not only her life but the lasting change she inspired through her actions.
While Ethel Kennedy may no longer walk among us, her legacy will endure as long as people continue to fight for the justice she championed. Her story is woven deeply within the fabric of American history, reminding us all of the power of resilience and the importance of advocacy. The movement for justice and equality, which she embraced, remains alive today, continuing to echo her belief: it is our duty to make the world we want to live in.
