Commemorating Betty Ford: A Legacy of Advocacy and Compassion
Purpose of the Stamp:
This stamp honors First Lady Betty Ford??s legacy, celebrating her dedication to women??s rights and her impactful contributions to America, including advocacy for breast cancer awareness and substance abuse treatment.
Stamp Design:
The design features a portion of Betty Ford??s 1977 official White House portrait by Felix de Cossio. The oil painting depicts her in a pale blue chiffon dress, exuding elegance and grace.
First Day City:
The stamp was unveiled at the Annenberg Health Sciences Building in Rancho Mirage, California, home to the Betty Ford Center, a renowned rehabilitation facility co-founded by Ford to support those battling addiction.
Historical Significance:
Betty Ford was a trailblazer for women??s rights and a compassionate advocate for health-related causes. Born in Chicago on April 8, 1918, Elizabeth Anne "Betty" Bloomer developed a passion for dance, even training under the legendary Martha Graham. After her father??s death when she was 16, she began championing women??s equality.
Her marriage to Gerald Ford in 1948 marked the beginning of her support for his political career, from Congressman to President. As First Lady, Betty championed the Equal Rights Amendment and influenced public opinion, with campaign slogans like ??Vote for Betty??s Husband?? during the 1976 election.
Though Ford??s presidency ended after his election loss, Betty??s impact endured. In 1982, she founded the Betty Ford Center, dedicating her life to aiding those in need. This stamp is a fitting tribute to her enduring influence and compassionate spirit.
