US Citizenship Podcast: 250 to 250: 99. Betty Ford, Narrated by Kate Barr

Friday, September 4, 2026

Heather Cox Richardson and 250 to 250: Betty Ford, Narrated by Kate Barr

Kate Barr and her Can’t Win campaigns exposed gerrymandering; now YALLvote and the Can’t Win Victory Fund support down ballot candidates fighting rigged maps across the South. Here, Barr celebrates Betty Ford, the outspoken First Lady who broke taboos around breast cancer and addiction and transformed the role to fit her own voice.

Betty Ford was the First Lady of the United States from 1974 to 1977.
Her husband, Gerald Ford, was the President.
Betty Ford spoke openly about important issues for women.
She supported the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA).
She believed that being First Lady should not stop her from speaking about her beliefs.
In 1974, Betty Ford learned that she had breast cancer.
At that time, many people were afraid or embarrassed to talk about cancer.
Betty Ford spoke openly about her cancer and treatment.
Later, she also spoke about her problems with alcohol and pain medicine.
She helped people understand that addiction needs treatment and care.
She helped start the Betty Ford Center to treat people with addiction.
Betty Ford became known for her honesty, courage, and public service.

POP Interview and Civics Quiz:

USCIS PM-602-0188. Have you ever used or sold illegal drugs?
USCIS 100:55. What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?
USCIS 128:69. What are two examples of civic participation in the United States?

Family Fun

Friday, September 4, 2026