On the recordSeptember 3, 1997
I am saddened but inspired tonight. I am saddened because I stand here to say farewell to a sister friend who lived a life worth emulating. The late Betty Shabazz was a woman of character, a woman of strength and presence. She rose above tragedy when her husband was murdered. She stood up to challenges, rose to the occasion after the death of her husband, and raised her children with dignity and pride. I am saddened at the loss of this special woman, this special woman of history. I am happy, however, to have known of this woman and to be alive to have this woman demonstrate what strength and character really is. Dr. Shabazz died this summer the victim of an unfortunate circumstance, but until the end she showed courage, grace, and class to the victim and her family. She was an extraordinary woman.
Source
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