Celebrating Ethel Kennedy, Our Founder and Hero
April 11, 1928 – October 10, 2024
Throughout Ethel Kennedy’s marriage to Robert F. Kennedy, the couple shared a passion for politics and a commitment to social justice. As the founder of RFK Human Rights, she led the organization from its very inception and played a vital role in its growth and development for more than half a century.












After founding Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights months after her husband’s death in 1968, Ethel Kennedy became a political force in her own right, personally tackling human rights issues both at home and abroad.
Over her 96 years, she has been a champion for justice, standing with human rights defenders around the globe—from breaking bread with Cesar Chavez, to marching with the Immokalee farm workers, to advocating before a Kenyan dictator for justice for human rights activists.
Energized by the heroes she has supported and the many lives she has touched, she has been the catalyst, the motivation, and the greatest supporter for our work to carry forth Senator Robert F. Kennedy’s legacy. From partnering with frontline advocates all over the world to speaking truth to power at every turn, Ethel inspired us every day.
Ethel lived a tremendously impactful life and was the cornerstone of RFK Human Rights until she passed away on October 10, 2024. May she rest in eternal peace.
“For anyone to achieve something, he must show a little courage. You’re only on this earth once. You must give it all you’ve got.”
– Ethel Kennedy
We share our sincere condolences with her entire family, including our president and leader, Kerry Kennedy.
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