Eunice and Rosemary Kennedy pictured traveling together. (Source: SpecialOlympics.Org)
Athletes, Widjmy Charles and Dalila Semichi, compete in track and field events at the Special Olympics World Games, 2019. (Source: ABC News)
Athletes, Widjmy Charles and Dalila Semichi, compete in track and field events at the Special Olympics World Games, 2019. (Source: ABC News)
Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s dedication to the Special Olympics was built on the beliefs of inclusion and acceptance. Growing up, Shriver was inspired by her intellectually disabled sister, Rosemary, to fight for the rights of individuals affected with intellectual and physical disabilities. With Shriver’s worldwide movement based on inclusion and equity, millions of athletes have the chance to call the games home.
Eunice and Rosemary Kennedy pictured traveling together. (Source: SpecialOlympics.Org)
"For a long time my family believed that all of us working together could provide my sister with a happy life in our midst. My parents, strong believers in family loyalty, rejected suggestions that Rosemary be sent away to an institution."
~ Eunice Kennedy Shriver
Eunice Kennedy Shriver was born into the Kennedy’s, an influential family. Shriver was the sister of U.S. President John F. Kennedy, U.S. Senator and Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, and U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy. Shriver was born on July 10,1921 and was the fifth of nine children to Joseph P. Kennedy and Rose Fitzgerald. Born into a wealthy and politically powerful family, public service was an honored tradition. Shriver received a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from Stanford University. Following graduation, she worked at numerous governement positions, eventually taking over the management of the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation. This foundation had two goals, focusing on how society cares for individuals with disabilities and to help identify ways to prevent the causes of intellectual disabilities.
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