Quote

Speech at the Democratic State Committee Dinner, Columbus, Ohio

October 8, 1966

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Columbus, OH

[The American people] are not going to vote for the Democratic party because things are fine or because they “never had it so good.” They are not going to pull the Democratic lever because they want to “stand pat” or “keep cool.” They will not favor our cause if they want to keep the status quo or stand in the way of change or go back to days that are gone. For if this is the course they wish there is another party, the Republican party, which is far better qualified, by history, tradition and temperament, to preside over stagnation and drift. No, they will vote for us only if they want to keep America moving. And I believe they intend to keep America moving.

New year, new us. Same mission.

Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights is rebranding to honor the legacy of our founder and hero, Mrs. Ethel Skakel Kennedy. From now on, we will proudly be known as the Robert & Ethel Kennedy Human Rights Center

While our name is changing, our mission and work remain the same. We will continue to fight injustice, advance human rights, and hold governments accountable around the world in 2026 and beyond.