[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 10 (Wednesday, January 21, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E88]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO SISTER ANN KEEFE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DAVID N. CICILLINE

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 21, 2015

  Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sister Ann 
Keefe, who passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2015 after a long and 
courageous battle against cancer.
  In 1982 Sister Ann joined the ministry at St. Michaels Church in 
Providence and began her life long fight for those who had no voice and 
those particularly vulnerable and marginalized.
  Recognizing the challenges that faced our city and Rhode Island, 
Sister Ann took action to help the poor, empower workers, advocate non-
violence and promote justice for all. Over thirty years of service to 
our community, she cofounded the Institute for the Study and Practice 
of Nonviolence, which is credited with helping to sharply cut the 
city's murder rate. She started Providence CityArts! to 
help at-risk youth. And, she was involved in creating nearly two dozen 
other organizations that continue to create opportunity for so many.
  I had the extraordinary honor of working with Sister Ann over many 
years and treasured our friendship. As Mayor, I was especially proud to 
work with Sister Ann to support the Institute for the Study and 
Practice of Nonviolence to make Providence safe for kids and future 
generations of young Rhode Islanders. During this time, I witnessed her 
leadership skills, dedication and profound commitment to the youth of 
our city. Last year, even though she was battling cancer, Sister Ann 
was still fighting for those without a voice and helped my office 
secure Saint Michaels Church as the location for a comprehensive 
immigration reform rally and attended the event to show her support. 
There are so many examples of when she would connect those in need with 
those that could help.
  She was a remarkable and strong woman who served as an inspiration 
for all of us and she leaves behind a great legacy. Her passing is a 
tremendous loss for Rhode Island, but her presence will continue to be 
felt in the community through the many organizations she helped found 
and run, and the positive impact she has had on so many.
  My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones. Rest in 
peace, Sister Ann.

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