The scenes on the Oval 40 years ago caused change that still exists today.
In the midst of my graduate school application nightmare, my adjustments to a leadership position with the Civic Leadership Council, and the gigs that actually make me some money, I realized that I have one other need I need to stop ignoring: school.
It’s definitely been a tough quarter academically. I’m taking my history GEC, which is American history from 1963-present. I really love this class—what an exciting time it was to be alive in America. I recently did a research project on Vietnam anti-war protests at Ohio State. It’s hard to believe racial tensions and disregard for First Amendment rights were rampant just 40 years ago. It is nice to realize the progress we’ve made since our parents were our age.
The riots at OSU in the spring of 1970 lasted about a week, leading up to the Kent State shootings, which caused a final bout of chaos that forced President Fawcett (yes, as in the Fawcett Center) to close the school for twelve days. In fact, many American universities were closed due to massive student protests.
It is shocking to hear that these students, who are just like us, risked so much to stand up for their beliefs. I’m always surprised to talk to my father about his stories from back then. Although it’s best that this type of student behavior has subsided (disregarding the occasional Ohio State/Michigan game), I find myself wondering what it would take for the students of my generation to create such a national movement.