Robert Francis Kennedy on the Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

A Poignant Tribute

On April 4, 1968, Martin Luther King Jr., a renowned civil rights leader, was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. The news sent shockwaves across the nation, sparking widespread outrage and grief. Among those deeply affected by King's death was Robert Francis Kennedy, a US senator and presidential candidate at the time.

Kennedy's Speech

Hours after King's assassination, Kennedy delivered a powerful speech in Indianapolis, Indiana. With raw emotion, he condemned the violence and called for unity and peace. Kennedy's words resonated with a nation reeling from trauma:

"What we need in the United States is not division; what we need in the United States is not hatred; what we need in the United States is not violence or lawlessness; but love and wisdom, and compassion toward one another, and a feeling of justice toward those who still suffer within our country, whether they be white or whether they be black."

A Lasting Legacy

Kennedy's speech served as a beacon of hope during a dark time. His message of unity and compassion inspired countless Americans to come together and work towards a more just and equitable society. His words continue to resonate today, reminding us of the importance of understanding, tolerance, and the pursuit of a better future for all.