“Life In The Shadows” focuses on President John F. Kennedy’s pioneering initiative to improve the lives of persons with mental retardation. His advocacy culminated in the 1963 signing of the first piece of legislation in our country’s history addressing the needs of citizens with mental retardation and underwriting research and programs of action in the area of hereditary disorders, child disease and birth defects. As a result, millions of people emerged from lives of shame and isolation and were given their first opportunity to lead normal and productive lives. Through the leadership of members of the Kennedy family, individuals with mental retardation (intellectual disabilities) have now been empowered to realize and achieve their full potential.