WASHINGTON (AP) — On occasion, Caroline Kennedy ventures into the limelight and assumes the role of custodian of the Kennedy legacy.
She did so Wednesday night, promoting the sequel to her father's famous book, "Profiles in Courage," and assuring the audience that her family's political legacy would likely continue — her three children are already talking about running for office.
But don't look for their names on the ballot box just yet. They range in age from 9 to 13.
The event, held at George Washington University, also featured Bob Woodward of The Washington Post and education activist Marian Wright Edelman. Both contributed to Kennedy's new book, "Profiles in Courage for Our Time," a collection of short profiles of elected officials who stood by their convictions, though it often cost them their popularity and political fortune.
"Only when we are engaged in our political system can we change society," Kennedy said.
Though Kennedy participated in the panel, she seldom spoke about herself and gave little insight into her family life.
She did praise her grandmother, Rose Kennedy, however, as a personal hero who showed "tremendous faith and tremendous discipline." "She often said that one person could change the course of history," Kennedy said. "She also combined that with an absolute political sense. She was always concerned with what we were thinking."
She said her new book has taken on added significance since the attacks of Sept. 11.
"Since 9-11, people have changed their perspective on public service, recognizing the sacrifice people in public service often make," she said. "They have made real the face of courage."