Michelle Obama is expected to attend the funeral of Hadiya Pendleton in Chicago on Saturday. On Feb. 7, Chicago Tribune reported that the First Lady has plans to attend the funeral out of respect for the young girl who was shot and killed. Pendleton was an honor student who performed with her majorette band at Obama's Inauguration just days before her life was taken.
As previously reported, Hadiya Pendleton was shot by gang members in Chicago. This tragedy was recognized by the Obama's and while Michelle is not expected to make any public statement, her attendance will be appreciated by Pendleton's family and friends.
Barack Obama is not expected to attend the funeral, neither are the couple's two children, Sasha and Malia. Although the fact that Mrs. Obama is attending is getting national attention, it doesn't sound like she wants this to be a spectacle. According to her communications director, Michelle wants to attend the funeral privately to pay her respects and give her condolences.
"As a mother and Chicagoan, the first lady was heartbroken to learn of the tragic loss of Hadiya Pendleton due to senseless gun violence. Too many times, we’ve seen young people struck down with so much of their lives ahead of them. The first lady is traveling to her funeral on Saturday to offer her condolences and support to Hadiya’s family and loved ones," said Kristina Schake, communications director for Michelle Obama.
Michelle Obama electing to attend Hadiya Pendleton's funeral is getting positive feedback from most people. There are some, however, who feel as though this choice is a bit ironic, given the country's split stance on gun control.
© Effie Orfanides 2013
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