Ted Kennedy recalled
As an activist against the oppression of peoples’ rights over the past half-century, I always had a modicum of respect for Ted Kennedy. As a leading figure in American mainstream politics with the courage to stick to the standards of freedom that the USA has always represented – he could always be counted on.
Ted Kennedy and his wife, Victoria, at Hyannis Port in 1992
Daylife/AP Photo used by permission
Worldwide tributes for U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy, who has died after a long battle with brain cancer, poured in Wednesday, led by politicians hailing his role in securing a lasting peace in Northern Ireland…
Kennedy, of Irish Catholic ancestry, was initially an outspoken opponent of British military deployment to the province during the violence of the 1970s and 80s in which more than 3,600 people were killed, but later moderated his views to support negotiations that brought all sides to the table.
The senator is credited with getting an American visa for Gerry Adams — leader of the pro-Irish nationalism Sinn Fein party accused of links to Irish Republican Army militants — allowing him to attend a pivotal U.S. conference on Northern Ireland’s future.
Kennedy was awarded an honorary knighthood in March 2009, for his contribution to Northern Irish peace, which included a landmark speech in the province in 1998 urging mainly pro-British Protestants and mainly pro-Irish Catholics to work together…
Sinn Fein president Adams greeted Kennedy’s death with great sadness.
“He has served the American people with courage and commitment for nearly 50 years. His service to Ireland through his role in the peace process was exceptional and contributed significantly to its progress.”
Ted Kennedy was the only one of the Kennedy brothers I never demonstrated against. If that means anything.
I don’t doubt he shared the commitment to imperial foreign policy of his brothers – or the opportunism they demonstrated in their climb to power. But, he could be counted upon to take the stand for working people, for civil rights for all – when his own constituency was rattled by racist attacks.
He was willing to stand up to the bullies that Republicans have become. He would challenge the cowards that the Democrats have become.
For a’ that and a’ that…
The Kennedys are a family of Patriots. I hope Ted Kennedy’s son Congressman Patrick Kennedy steps up to the plate and takes up where his Father has left us. Take it to the next level Patrick.
I also hope President Obama takes off the gloves and the Democrats and Patriots that remain continue the fight for health care.
Eric Scott
August 26, 2009 at 8:23 am