Four powerful quotes surround us. These words of Robert F. Kennedy are etched in granite. They inspire action. Welcome to the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Bust in Brooklyn’s Columbus Park.
This memorial honors a man who served New York as a U.S. Senator. He served from 1965 until his tragic death in 1968. Anneta Duveen, a Brooklyn native, created this oversized bust. The Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Bust was dedicated in 1972. Ethel Kennedy, his widow, attended the unveiling. This marked New York City’s first memorial to the former senator.
Robert F. Kennedy was born in 1925. He was the third son of Joseph Kennedy. His older brother, John F. Kennedy, was the 35th President. Robert, often called “Bobby,” was close to Jack. He directed his campaigns. He served as U.S. Attorney General. The assassination of President John F. Kennedy deeply affected him.
In 1964, Robert Kennedy resigned as U.S. Attorney General. He moved to Manhattan. He decided to run for New York’s U.S. Senate seat. Despite being from Massachusetts, he won the election. In January 1965, Kennedy became a U.S. Senator.
As Attorney General in the early 1960s, Robert Kennedy engaged in civil rights. He approved FBI wiretaps on Martin Luther King. Yet, he helped protect King and his family. He pushed voter rights in the South. He sent federal marshals to protect Freedom Riders.
After his brother’s assassination, Robert Kennedy became a champion for minority rights. This included African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and immigrant groups. He supported busing to desegregate schools. He backed the Voting Rights Act of 1965. He advocated for anti-poverty programs. By 1968, he was a prominent voice for the disaffected.
One of Kennedy’s key initiatives was in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant. This neighborhood faced severe urban problems. Kennedy helped instigate a public-private initiative there.
After a tour of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Kennedy met with community activists. One activist said, “You’re another white guy that’s out here for the day.” Judge Thomas R. Jones said he was weary of promises. Elsie Richardson asked him to do more than previous officials.
Kennedy wondered if Bedford-Stuyvesant could be a place for change. He enlisted help from the private sector and foundations. By September 1966, he recruited business leaders. Working with Senator Javits, Kennedy secured funding for community development projects.
In December 1966, Kennedy presented his plan for Bedford-Stuyvesant. The new entity was known as the Bedford-Stuyvesant Development and Service Corporation. Franklin A. Thomas headed the community group. John Doar led the Development and Service Corporation. Kennedy remained involved until his assassination in June 1968.
The Robert F. Kennedy Memorial features a bronze bust. It rests on a Kitledge gray granite pedestal. The granite came from New Hampshire. The pedestal displays four quotes by Kennedy. These quotes inspire community action. They speak to changing events, amplifying voices, personal responsibility, and getting our house in order.
Take a moment to reflect on these words. Consider Robert Kennedy’s commitment to justice and equality. Remember his efforts to improve communities. Let this Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Bust inspire you.