Kitty Dukakis, the wife of former Massachusetts governor and Democratic presidential candidate Michael Dukakis, has passed away at the age of 88. An outspoken advocate for mental health and addiction issues, Dukakis leaves behind a legacy of resilience and advocacy that has touched countless lives.
Born and raised in Brookline, Massachusetts, Dukakis met her future husband while attending high school in the Boston suburb. The pair, seemingly polar opposites in personality and background, soon found themselves embarking on a lifelong journey together. Their partnership spanned over six decades, marked by moments of triumph and challenges that tested the very essence of their bond.
Kitty Dukakis rose to national prominence during her husband’s 1988 presidential campaign, where she played a pivotal role as a campaigner and public figure. Her unwavering support and dedication to Michael Dukakis’s political endeavors earned her high praise and recognition, with many citing her as a key influence in his decision to seek the presidency.
In the midst of the campaign, Dukakis made headlines for her candid revelation of a 26-year struggle with amphetamine addiction, which she successfully overcame through treatment. Her openness about her battle with addiction and subsequent efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse endeared her to many, transforming her personal struggles into a platform for advocacy and education.
Despite facing public scrutiny and personal challenges, including a battle with alcoholism that led to hospitalization, Kitty Dukakis remained a beacon of hope and resilience. Her journey toward healing and self-discovery, chronicled in her autobiographies “Now You Know” and “Shock,” shed light on the complexities of mental health and addiction, inspiring others to seek help and break the stigma surrounding these issues.
In her later years, Dukakis continued to champion causes close to her heart, advocating for human rights, gender equality, and the preservation of Holocaust memory. Her tireless efforts to make a positive impact on society, both in the public eye and behind the scenes, earned her widespread admiration and respect from colleagues and constituents alike.
Reflecting on her legacy, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey praised Dukakis as “a force for good in public life and behind the scenes,” highlighting her unwavering commitment to social justice and advocacy. Dukakis’s ability to transform personal pain into a catalyst for change resonated deeply with those who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched.
As we bid farewell to Kitty Dukakis, we honor her memory and celebrate the enduring legacy of compassion, courage, and resilience she leaves behind. May her spirit of advocacy and empathy continue to inspire future generations to speak their truth and seek help in times of need.
