Tributes to Irish Advocate Sister Stanislaus Kennedy After Her Death at 86
Irish President Michael D. Higgins and Taoiseach Micheál Martin have paid tribute to Sister Stanislaus Kennedy, a renowned Irish campaigner and advocate who passed away at age 86. Sr Stan, known for her fearless activism for human rights, equality, and support for marginalized communities, died at St. Francis Hospice in Dublin. She founded Focus Ireland in 1985 to combat homelessness, inspired by her research into women's needs in Dublin during the 1980s. Throughout her life, she established numerous organizations including the Immigrant Council of Ireland, the Sanctuary spirituality centre, and Social Innovations Ireland. Her work often challenged the Catholic Church, advocating for social justice issues such as women's rights and same-sex marriage, and she was recognized with at least 18 awards, including honorary doctorates. Born Treasa Kennedy near Dingle, County Kerry, she joined the Sisters of Charity at 18 and dedicated her life to helping the poor, homeless, immigrants, and those in disadvantaged communities. Her advocacy was characterized by persistence and directness, earning her the nickname 'the most intransigent woman' by Charles Haughey. Sr Stan was also a prolific writer and speaker, contributing significantly to social policy and community development in Ireland. Her death prompted widespread tributes, emphasizing her profound impact on Irish society and her unwavering commitment to social justice.
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