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Kent State Shootings Remembrance

Honor the lives lost and stand for peace on Kent State Shootings Remembrance Day. Let's never forget this tragic event in our history.

Tuesday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 4

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On May 4th, we remember the tragic events that took place on this day in 1970 at Kent State University. The Kent State Shootings Remembrance is a day to honor and pay tribute to the four students who lost their lives and those who were injured when the National Guard opened fire on peaceful protestors. This event sparked nationwide outrage and brought attention to the anti-war movement during the Vietnam War. Despite the somber tone of this day, it serves as a reminder of the power of peaceful protest and standing up for what you believe in. Let's take a moment to reflect and honor those affected by this tragic event.

TIMELINE

Kent State Shootings Remembrance Timeline

Kent State Shootings

On May 4, the Ohio National Guard opened fire on students protesting the Vietnam War at Kent State University, killing four and injuring nine.

Presidential Commission

President's Commission on Campus Unrest concluded the shootings were "unjustified".

Civil Trial Failure

Eight of the guardsmen were acquitted by a federal grand jury.

Kent State Memorial Opens

A memorial dedicated to the memory of the students killed was completed on campus.

First Formal Remembrance Day

Kent State University held its first formal annual remembrance event, 20 years after the shootings.

National Historic Landmark

Kent State Shootings Site was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Kent State Shootings Remembrance

Attend a commemorative event

Many organizations and communities hold events to honor and remember the victims of the Kent State shootings. Attend one of these events to pay your respects and learn more about the tragic event.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local organization

Use this day as an opportunity to give back to your community. Find a local organization that supports causes related to the Kent State shootings and offer your time and support.

EDUCATE

Educate others about the event

Spread awareness and educate others about the Kent State shootings by sharing information and resources on social media, or hosting a discussion or presentation about the event for friends and family.

CREATE

Create art in remembrance

Express your feelings and thoughts about the Kent State shootings through art. This could be through painting, drawing, or any other creative medium that allows you to process and remember the event in your own way.

DONATE

Donate to a related charity

Support organizations that work towards promoting peace, non-violence, and social justice – causes that align with the values of those who lost their lives in the Kent State shootings. Consider making a donation in their honor.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Kent State Shootings Remembrance is Important

It educates future generations about an important event in history

The Kent State shootings may not be as well-known as other events in history, but it is an important one to remember. By commemorating this day, we can educate future generations about this event and its significance in shaping our society today.

It honors the victims and survivors

The Kent State shootings were a tragic event that resulted in the deaths of four students and the injury of nine others. Remembering this event is a way to honor those who lost their lives and recognize the bravery and resilience of the survivors.

It serves as a reminder of the power of peaceful protest

The Kent State shootings occurred during a time of intense political and social unrest. Remembering this event can serve as a reminder of the importance of peaceful protest and the consequences of violence against protesters.