A Hero for America’s Moms is Laid to Rest
News Release
August 20, 2009
CONTACT: Gretchen Wright, 202/371-1999
A Hero for America’s Moms is Laid to Rest
MomsRising, the million-member online and on-the-ground grassroots organization working to improve economic security for all families, today joined the nation in mourning the loss of U.S. Senator Edward M. Kennedy. On the day he is being laid to rest, MomsRising Executive Director Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner called the Senator “a force of nature, a lion, and an elegant street fighter for social justice.”
Senator Kennedy attended the MomsRising Capitol Hill launch in 2006, sharing personal stories and speaking eloquently about the compelling need to end discrimination against mothers, and all women. At that event, Senator Kennedy called the treatment of mothers and children, “really a defining issue in terms of our country, our society, our humanity, and our decency” and pledged support for MomsRising and its agenda.
MomsRising worked closely with the late Senator a range of issues, including healthcare reform, fair pay, paid sick days, and family and medical leave. “Senator Kennedy was an incredible partner as well as a bold and inspiring leader,” said MomsRising President and Co-Founder Joan Blades.
This month, MomsRising members have been fanning out across the country to dispel unfounded rumors, misperceptions and lies about healthcare reform. For this effort, dubbed the SuperMom Healthcare Truth Squad, SuperMoms dressed in red capes are distributing truth flyers to educate people about what healthcare reform will really do – and not do. Senator Kennedy called healthcare reform “the cause of my life.”
“Senator Kennedy’s legacy lives on as we continue the fight for mothers and children,” Rowe-Finkbeiner added. “Our nation is stronger and so much better off because of his service. He touched all of our lives in so many ways. Even as we celebrate his life and contributions, we will miss him terribly.”
MomsRising.org is an online and on-the-ground grassroots organization of more than a million people who are working to achieve economic security for all families in the United States. MomsRising is working for paid family leave, flexible work options, affordable child care, and for an end to the wage and hiring discrimination which penalizes so many mothers. MomsRising also advocates for healthcare for all, toxic-free environments, and breastfeeding rights so that all children can have a healthy start. Established in 2006, MomsRising and its members are organizing and speaking out to improve public policy and to change the national dialogue on issues that are critically important to America’s families.
