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NAACP Mourns the Passing of Eunice Kennedy Shriver

KENNEDY SIBLING AND SPECIAL OLYMPICS FOUNDER DEVOTED HER LIFE TO HELPING OTHERS AND ADVANCING THE CAUSE OF HUMAN RIGHTS

WASHINGTON DC — The NAACP issued the following statement on the death of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister of former President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy and Senator Edward “Ted” Kennedy and champion for equality and inclusion for people with disabilities and the disadvantaged.

“The United States has lost an icon.  Eunice Kennedy Shriver devoted her life to improving the lives of others, advocating for those less fortunate, and instilling a vision of a loving and caring society to all around her,” stated NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous. 

Said Jealous: “The NAACP is deeply saddened by this loss.  Eunice Kennedy Shriver worked her entire life to break down racial barriers while working to assist individuals with disabilities.  She devoted her time and energy into teaching all of us that the U.S. could be a better place for all citizens, not just a select few.  The thoughts and prayers of the entire NAACP family go out to the Kennedys at this time of sorrow and mourning.”

“As a founder of the Special Olympics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver was a trailblazer in advancing the cause of human rights and equal opportunity, a mission that remains essential to the NAACP’s vision.  Her dedication to helping people was influential in inspiring the unwavering commitment to civil rights reflected in the legacy of former President John F.  Kennedy and Senators Robert and Edward Kennedy.  Mrs. Shriver was a hero to many of us at the NAACP,” stated Hilary O. Shelton, Director of the NAACP Washington Bureau and Senior Vice President of Advocacy and Policy.

Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities, conducting voter mobilization and monitoring equal opportunity in the public and private sectors.

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