Mary Kerry Kennedy, commonly known as Kerry Kennedy, is an American lawyer, author, and prominent human rights activist.
Born on September 8, 1959, in Washington, D.C., she is the daughter of former U.S. Senator and Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy and Ethel Skakel Kennedy.
As a member of the storied Kennedy family, she is also a niece of former President John F. Kennedy and former Senator Ted Kennedy.
Her life has been shaped by both the legacy of public service in her family and personal tragedies, including the assassination of her father in 1968 when she was eight years old.
Siblings
Kerry is one of eleven children born to Robert F. Kennedy and Ethel Kennedy.
Her siblings include Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Joseph P. Kennedy II, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., David Kennedy (who passed away in 1984), Courtney Kennedy, Michael LeMoyne Kennedy (who passed away in 1997), Christopher Kennedy, Matthew “Max” Kennedy, Douglas Kennedy, and Rory Kennedy.
Growing up in the public eye, the siblings navigated the immense spotlight and challenges following their father’s death, with several pursuing paths in public service, activism, law, and other fields.
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Career
Kennedy graduated from Brown University and earned her Juris Doctor from Boston College Law School.
She has dedicated her professional life to human rights advocacy.
In 1988, she founded what is now known as Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, an organization that continues her father’s legacy by promoting justice, defending human rights defenders, and working against inequality worldwide.
As president of the organization, she has led efforts in over 60 countries, coordinating delegations, supporting activists, and addressing issues such as political repression, discrimination, and the rule of law.
Kennedy has authored several books, including the New York Times bestseller Being Catholic Now, Speak Truth to Power, and Robert F. Kennedy: Ripples of Hope.
Her work has involved partnering with global organizations, highlighting stories of courage through initiatives like the RFK Human Rights Awards, and advocating for marginalized communities.
Accolades
Kennedy has been honored with awards such as the Eleanor Roosevelt Human Rights Award and the Medal for Social Activism.
In more recent years, she was named a recipient of the Freedom Award by the National Civil Rights Museum and the Oscar Romero Human Rights Award from the University of Dayton’s Human Rights Center for her decades-long commitment to global advocacy.
Additional honors include the Albert Shanker Award for her work in education and public service.
Her leadership has also been celebrated through the Ripple of Hope Awards and other distinctions that reflect her impact on promoting equality and protecting vulnerable populations.
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