Anne Williams (activist) facts for kids
Anne Elizabeth Williams (born Anne Meath; February 6, 1951 – April 18, 2013) was a brave campaigner who fought for justice for the victims of the Hillsborough disaster of 1989. This terrible event saw 97 Liverpool football fans lose their lives at Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield. Anne's own son, Kevin Williams, was among those who died.
The Hillsborough Disaster and Anne's Fight
Anne Williams began her fight for justice after her 15-year-old son, Kevin, was tragically crushed to death in the Hillsborough disaster. She believed the first official investigation into the disaster was wrong and questioned its findings.
Even though Anne had no legal training, she became incredibly knowledgeable about the case. A journalist from the BBC, Judith Moritz, said that talking to Anne made it seem like she had studied law for many years.
Anne started a group called "Hope For Hillsborough." This group later joined with another called the "Hillsborough Justice Campaign," and Anne eventually became its leader. She worked tirelessly to get a new investigation into what happened at Hillsborough.
Anne's Life
Anne was born in Formby on February 6, 1951. She went to Our Lady of Lourdes school in Birkdale. She became a mother of three children and worked part-time in a newsagent's shop in Formby. Kevin was her younger son from her first marriage. Later, she married Steve Williams and had a daughter with him.
Anne later moved to Chester. She sadly passed away from cancer on April 18, 2013, at the age of 62. Two of her children survived her.
A Lasting Legacy
In December 2013, Anne Williams was honored for her long and courageous fight for justice for her son Kevin and all the Hillsborough victims. She was given the Helen Rollason Award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards. This award is given to someone who has shown outstanding achievement in the face of adversity.
Alan Hansen, a former Liverpool player who was at the stadium on the day of the tragedy, presented the award. Anne's brother Danny, her son Michael, and her daughter Sara accepted the award on her behalf. The audience gave them a standing ovation, showing their respect and admiration for Anne's incredible efforts.
