Massachusetts political leaders paid homage to Former Massachusetts first lady Kitty Dukakis, who died Friday night.
Dukakis, an activist and author who formerly served as a presidential appointee on national Holocaust panels, was remembered for her dedication to uplifting others through public service.
Governor Maura Healey said Dukakis was consistently working to help others in both her public and private life and served as an inspiration to many.
“She was a strong advocate for children, women and refugees, while also taking a leadership role in ensuring that the horrors of the Holocaust are never forgotten,’’ Healey said in the Saturday statement. “She spoke courageously about her struggles with substance use disorder and mental health, which serves as an inspiration to us all to break down stigma and seek help.’’
Senator Ed Markey said Dukakis broke barriers for women in government and leadership “with a joy and selflessness that only brought us closer to her.’’
“Throughout her remarkable life, Kitty transformed her personal struggles into positive and persistent change — a proud legacy that continues to benefit our Commonwealth and our country,’’ Markey said in a statement.
Mayor Michelle Wu said the Dukakis family fostered a lasting spirit of kindness and joy across the state, inspiring people to help one another.
“It was so inspiring to know that they had built a life and also were living as examples of what it meant to do right in your community to speak out and to try every day to make life a little bit better for everyone around you,’’ Wu said.
Massachusetts Democratic Party Chair Steve Kerrigan echoed the positive impact Dukakis had on the community, specifically for refugees and the homeless. He said it was her willingness to discuss her personal struggles when others were often afraid to talk about their private issues that made her unique.
“It was her courage in publicly sharing her struggles with depression and substance use disorder that truly defined her strength,’’ his statement posted on X said. “Her honesty and bravery helped break down stigma, inspiring countless others to seek support and begin their own journeys of recovery.’’
Representative Bill Keating also took to X to share how Dukakis was a “remarkable woman’’ and an inspiration to many.
“Our Commonwealth was lucky to have her as our First Lady. Kitty’s legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and a commitment to making the world a better place,’’ he said.
Talia Lissauer can be reached at talia.lissauer@globe.com.
