Tuesday marked 40 years since the Kent State Massacre. It was one of the most important moments in American history, triggering the only nationwide student strike we've ever seen, animating the antiwar movement, and ultimately ending the war -- four long years later. It was also one of the saddest moments in American history: our soldiers killing our children. I worked with Rep. Tim Ryan, who represents Kent State today, to pass a House resolution yesterday memorializing the event. But I felt that wasn't enough. So I gave this speech on the Floor of the House last night:
My father was a history teacher. I sometimes wonder what kind of speeches he might give, if he had been elected to Congress instead of me. It's too late to ask him -- he's been gone for ten years. But last night I gave the speech that I thought he might give, explaining what Kent State meant then, and what it means today.
is for you, Dad.
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