About

On May 4, 1970 members of the Ohio National Guard fired into a crowd of Kent State University demonstrators, killing four and wounding nine Kent State students. The impact of the shootings was dramatic. The event triggered a nationwide student strike that forced hundreds of colleges and universities to close.

The events surrounding May 4, 1970 represent an emotional and significant time for so many individuals. The impact of those events continues to affect and influence generations nearly 50 years later. 

The 50th commemoration in 2020 will not only remember and honor those who lost their lives or were wounded, but it will build on the lessons learned over the past 50 years to help inspire others for the next 50 years to continue the pursuits of freedom of expression and social activism. We invite you to be a part of a very special and historic event that will take place at Kent State University starting in the fall of 2019 and continuing through the commemoration on May 4, 2020.