Kitty Dukakis, Former First Lady and Advocate, Passes Away at 88

BROOKLINE, Mass. -- Kitty Dukakis, the widow of former Massachusetts governor and Democratic presidential nominee Michael Dukakis, has passed away at the age of 88. Her son, John Dukakis, confirmed that she died on Friday evening, surrounded by family.

Throughout her life, Dukakis was an advocate for mental health and addiction awareness, candidly sharing her experiences with depression and substance abuse to help others. Her family described her as a loving and spirited individual who had a deep empathy for people from diverse backgrounds. They highlighted her 60-year partnership with Michael Dukakis, noting their profound love for one another.

Kitty Dukakis played a significant role in her husband's presidential campaign in 1988, where she was recognized for her active campaigning and was influential in his decision to run for office. During a pivotal moment in the campaign, a question posed during a presidential debate brought her to the forefront of national attention, emphasizing the public's interest in their family dynamics.

Prior to the 1988 campaign, Kitty Dukakis bravely revealed her past struggles with a 26-year addiction to amphetamines, a battle she fought with the help of treatment. This experience led her to become an advocate against drug and alcohol abuse, particularly aimed at educating young people about its dangers.

Following her husband's electoral defeat to George H.W. Bush, Dukakis faced her own challenges with alcoholism, eventually entering a treatment program. She candidly discussed her struggles in her autobiography, acknowledging the influence of her upbringing on her battles with addiction and self-esteem.

In later years, Kitty Dukakis attributed her recovery from depression to electroconvulsive therapy, which she began in 2001. She remarked on how this treatment opened new avenues for her life.

Current Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey remembered Dukakis as a powerful advocate for remembrance of the Holocaust, as well as a champion for children, women, and refugee rights. Healey praised her for speaking openly about mental health and addiction, emphasizing the importance of breaking down societal stigmas surrounding these topics.

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell noted that Dukakis's legacy would endure through the policies she supported and the inspiration she provided for others to share their own stories.

Dukakis's commitment to social issues, including her advocacy for the homeless and political refugees, was recognized by many, including Maria Ivanova, director of Northeastern University's Policy School, which hosts the Kitty and Michael Dukakis Center for Urban and Regional Policy. Ivanova commended Dukakis for her honesty and compassion in public life.

Michael Dukakis, who has retired as a professor of political science, continues to engage with students and the community. The couple first met in high school in Brookline, Massachusetts, and their relationship blossomed despite their differing backgrounds--Michael being Greek Orthodox and Kitty being Jewish.

Kitty Dukakis, previously married and a mother to a son, married Michael Dukakis in 1963, with whom she had two daughters, Andrea and Kara. Her father, Harry Ellis Dickson, was an associate conductor for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and her education included degrees in modern dance and broadcasting.

In addition to her contributions to the public sphere, Dukakis served on various councils and committees, including the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council, and was involved in initiatives aimed at helping Cambodian children.