 Robert Kennedy delivering his speech in Jameson Hall. To the right is the chair left empty to signify Ian Robertson's absence | |
| Date | June 6, 1966 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 33:52 minutes |
| Venue | Jameson Hall, University of Cape Town |
| Location | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Also known as | "Ripple of Hope" Speech |
| Theme | Apartheid/Civil rights/Activism |
Robert F. Kennedy's Day of Affirmation Address (also known as the "Ripple of Hope" Speech[1]) is a speech given to National Union of South African Students members at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, on June 6, 1966, on the University's "Day of Reaffirmation of Academic and Human Freedom". Kennedy was at the time the junior U.S. senator from New York. His overall trip brought much US attention to Africa as a whole.
In the address Kennedy talked about individual liberty, Apartheid, and the need for justice in the United States at a time when the American civil rights movement was ongoing. He emphasized inclusiveness and the importance of youth involvement in society. The speech shook up the political situation in South Africa and received praise in the media. It is often considered his greatest and most famous speech.
- ^ Memmott, Mark (30 June 2013). "LOOKING BACK: RFK's 'Ripple Of Hope' Speech In South Africa". npr.org. National Public Radio. Retrieved 5 May 2016.