Giffords to receive Profile in Courage Award

Former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords is being honored with the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum said in a Friday announcement that the former congresswoman was being recognized for her “political, personal, and physical courage she has demonstrated in her fearless public advocacy for policy reforms aimed at reducing gun violence.”

Giffords was one of 19 people injured in a 2011 shooting during a “Congress on Your Corner” event she was holding in Tucson, Ariz. Six people were killed.

The lawmaker resigned from Congress last year to focus on her recovery.

Caroline Kennedy will present the Profile in Courage Award in a May ceremony.

Kennedy, daughter of the late commander-in-chief and president of the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, said of Giffords, “Instead of retreating following the tragic shooting that ended her Congressional career, she has recommitted herself to fighting for a more peaceful society free from hate and violence. She is a true Profile in Courage.”

Past recipients of the honor include: late Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.), late Rep. John Murtha (D-Pa.), Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), former Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wisc.) and former President Gerald Ford.

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