Politics

On The Passing of Eunice Kennedy Shriver

By Speaker Pelosi

Eunice Kennedy Shriver?s fundamental belief that every human has inherent worth and dignity revolutionized perceptions in this country and around the world. She enriched the lives of millions of individuals with intellectual disabilities; by unmasking discrimination and encouraging acceptance, she enriched the lives of all of us. The Special Olympics, and the joy it brings to countless children, will long stand in tribute to her life and work.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver was comforted and strengthened by her deep faith, which inspired her work for justice. She was immeasurably proud of her family, her accomplished brothers, but also her sisters, her children and grandchildren, and her husband, Sargent, whom she loved fiercely for more than half a century.

On behalf of all Members of Congress, I express our condolences to our colleagues, Senator Ted Kennedy and Congressman Patrick Kennedy. My thoughts are also with California?s first family, First Lady Maria Shriver and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. I hope it is a comfort to the Shriver and Kennedy families that so many are grieving their loss and praying for them in this sad time.

Full post as published by The Gavel on August 11, 2009 (boomark / email).