Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Ethel Kennedy

Newark, N.J. - Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the death of Ethel Kennedy:

"The passing of Ethel Kennedy is a deep personal loss to her many loved ones and friends - and a profound official loss for our nation. She was the matriarch of a great family and a national treasure.

"After the tragic loss of her husband, Senator Bobby Kennedy, Ethel Kennedy moved forward with grace, dignity and a profound dedication to carrying on their untiring commitment to expanding opportunity, promoting civil rights and building a more peaceful world. Her deep faith, personal resolve and strength helped America cope with a shared loss as she channeled her energies into establishing the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights, which for more than 56 years has worked to educate and inspire leaders, activists and students to transform their communities and expand the blessings of peace.

"For Ethel's lifetime of service, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation's highest civilian honor, by President Barack Obama in 2014. Ethel's faith, fortitude and determination inspired all who had the opportunity to know her.

"Paul and I knew and loved Ethel. She was funny, she was a compelling storyteller and her integrity inspired hope that will endure for generations to come. May it be a comfort to her loving children, her darling grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the entire Kennedy family that so many grieve with and pray for them during this sad time."