Kent State Shootings Remembrance

Kent State Shootings Remembrance is observed on May 4. This solemn day honors the four students who were killed and the nine who were wounded when the Ohio National Guard opened fire during an anti-war protest in 1970. It serves as a time for the Kent State University community and the public to reflect on the tragedy and the importance of democratic rights. ¹

See also: Bed-in for Peace Day

History of Kent State Shootings Remembrance

The events leading to the remembrance began in late April 1970, following President Richard Nixon’s announcement of the Cambodian Incursion during the Vietnam War. This expansion of the conflict sparked immediate protests at colleges across the United States. At Kent State University, demonstrations grew increasingly tense over several days, leading the mayor to declare a state of emergency and request assistance from the Ohio National Guard.

On May 4, 1970, approximately 2,000 people gathered on the university Commons for a noon rally. After the crowd refused orders to disperse, National Guard units deployed tear gas and moved students toward a practice football field. As the guardsmen retreated back up a hill, 28 soldiers turned and fired 67 rounds into the crowd over 13 seconds. The gunfire killed Allison Krause, Jeffrey Miller, Sandra Scheuer, and William Schroeder, some of whom were simply walking to class between buildings.

Why is Kent State Shootings Remembrance important?

This day marks a pivotal moment in American history that fundamentally changed the national conversation about the Vietnam War. The tragedy triggered the largest student strike in U.S. history, with more than four million students walking out of classes at hundreds of schools. It revealed deep social and political divisions within the country and raised urgent questions about the use of military force against unarmed citizens on domestic soil.

The remembrance is essential for protecting the legacy of the First Amendment and the right to peaceful assembly. It serves as a permanent reminder of the high stakes of political dissent and the responsibility of the government to protect its people. By honoring the victims, the day encourages educational institutions to remain spaces where students can express their beliefs without fear of violence. It also provides a dedicated space for survivors to share their experiences and ensure the facts of the event are not forgotten.

• It honors the memories of the four students killed during the 1970 protest
• The day emphasizes the constitutional rights of free speech and assembly
• It highlights the historical impact of student activism on national policy
• The observance promotes dialogue about peaceful conflict resolution
• It provides a formal opportunity to learn from the failures of civil discourse

How to Observe Kent State Shootings Remembrance

The most prominent way to observe the day is by participating in the annual commemoration events at Kent State University. This traditionally includes a candlelight walk and vigil that begins at 11:00 p.m. on May 3 and continues through the night. Participants stand in the parking lot spaces where the four students fell, maintaining a quiet presence until the following afternoon. At noon on May 4, the university rings the Victory Bell 15 times—once for each person shot and twice for those who died at Jackson State shortly after.

For those unable to visit the campus, observing the day often involves visiting the May 4 Visitors Center virtually or in person to view historical artifacts and photographs. Listening to protest music from the era, such as the song “Ohio” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, is a common way to connect with the emotional weight of the tragedy. Many people also use the day to engage in discussions about current civil rights issues or to read historical accounts that clarify the timeline of the shootings.

• Take part in the candlelight vigil to show solidarity with the victims
• Listen to the ringing of the Victory Bell at noon to mark the moment
• Explore the exhibits at the May 4 Visitors Center to learn specific facts
• Wear a black or white armband as a quiet symbol of mourning and peace
• Read the poetry or view the art created by students involved in the movement

Kent State Shootings Remembrance Dates Table

1. https://www.kent.edu/may4visitorscenter[↩]