Summary

Robert F. Kennedy begins his speech by announcing to the audience the news of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination and by acknowledging Martin Luther King Jr.’s civil rights activism. 

Kennedy accepts that the day of Martin Luther King Jr.’s death is a turning point for Americans, who might find themselves tempted to act upon their anger and hatred. Kennedy claims that he understands the grief and anger that black Americans must be feeling but asks all Americans not to let the tragic event divide them.

Kennedy asks Americans to follow Martin Luther King Jr.’s example and act with kindness towards others. He specifically addresses black people and claims that he understands what they might be feeling, particularly because Martin Luther King Jr.’s mu...