Geraldine Ferraro, who earned her place in history as the first woman and first Italian-American to run on a major party presidential ticket died on the same day that Nancy Pelosi, the first woman and first Italian-American to be Speaker of the House was born, March 26.

In response to her passing in 2011, New York City public advocate Bill de Blasio called Ferraro a "a true trailblazer who inspired enormous pride among women, Italian-Americans and all New Yorkers."

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo also released a statement acknowledging her Italian heritage. The statement read, "She made a difference as a young prosecutor in Queens, as a congresswoman, as the first woman and first Italian-American to run for vice-president on a major party line and as a lawyer in private practice. As a role model for women across the world, she demonstrated that glass ceilings can be shattered. I had the honor and privilege to work with Geraldine for many years and I learned a great deal about courage and leadership from her."

Ferraro who born in Newburgh, New York died at Massachusetts General Hospital while surrounded by her loved ones at the age of 75.

The cause of death was complications from multiple myeloma, a blood cancer that she had battled for twelve years, her family said.

Geraldine Anne Ferraro (August 26, 1935 – March 26, 2011)

by Donna Montagna

Fonte: The IA Journal