Alumni and Friends Event
Please save the date for a special evening of reflection and conversation as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of Robert F. Kennedy’s historic “Ripple of Hope” address, which took place at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in June 1966.
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2026
Venue: Harvard Kennedy School, Boston, Massachusetts
Time: to be confirmed
The program will feature renowned human rights leader, Kerry Kennedy, whose lifelong commitment to advancing justice and human rights continues the legacy of her father; Randall Kennedy, the Michael R. Klein Professor of Law at Harvard Law School and one of the nation’s leading legal scholars; and Margaret Marshall, former Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, who shared the stage with Robert F. Kennedy during his historic 1966 “Ripple of Hope” address. Together, they will reflect on the enduring influence of the speech, its impact on the UCT community, and its continuing relevance in advancing justice, leadership, and social change today.
Robert F. Kennedy’s speech has inspired generations to believe that individual acts of courage and conviction can shape a more just and compassionate world. Sixty years later, its message remains as powerful and relevant as ever.
Additional program details will be shared in the coming weeks.
We hope you will join fellow University of Cape Town alumni and friends for this meaningful commemorative event.
