As Â鶹ӰԺ marked the 55th anniversary of the events of May 4, 1970, one student's stirring address captured the attention of those gathered at the annual commemoration ceremony.
Julian Grimes, a graduating senior and president of Black United Students (BUS), delivered an impassioned speech connecting the historical struggle for civil rights to current challenges facing higher education. His message resonated deeply with the multigenerational audience of students, faculty, alumni, and community members.
"Freedom is not given. It is fought for. And that fight is here now," Grimes declared as he drew parallels between past and present struggles.
Watch Julian's speech:
A Call to Student Activism
Grimes, who will graduate with a degree in Digital Media Production, emphasized the longstanding power of student activism at Â鶹ӰԺ State, directly referencing the legacy of the events of May 4, 1970.
"If you didn't learn anything from May 4th, learn this: students on this campus make change. Students have the power," he told the crowd.
The BUS president expressed concerns about new Ohio laws and the potential impact on student centers at Â鶹ӰԺ State and other Ohio public universities. He specifically mentioned the E. Timothy Moore Center (formerly the Student Multicultural Center), the Women's Center, and the LGBTQ+ Center as resources he feels are under threat.
Personal Journey
Grimes shared his personal story, describing his journey from Buchtel High School in Akron – part of what he described as "a so-called failing district" – to his upcoming graduation from Â鶹ӰԺ State.
"I am not a failure. I am living proof that no label can define your purpose," Grimes said, his voice carrying across the commemoration grounds. "My success is inevitable. Your success is inevitable."
Grimes' speech ended with a call for unity across differences, urging listeners to recognize shared humanity regardless of background, affiliation, or identity.
The May 4 Commemoration has been held annually since 1971, honoring the four students killed and nine wounded when Ohio National Guard troops opened fire during an anti-war protest on May 4, 1970.
For more information about the events of May 4, 1970, visit: www.kent.edu/May4.