The Kennedy Political Union
American University students are regularly recognized as some of the most politically active students across the nation. Since its founding in 1968, the Kennedy Political Union (KPU) has remained true to its mission as a non-partisan, student-run, student-funded, lecture series. By inviting speakers from all ends of the political spectrum to campus, KPU engages AU students, faculty, and staff. Over the years, KPU has established a culture of service and responsibility by broadening interest in social and political activities on the college campus. The range of KPU guest speakers reflects AU’s commitment to value diversity across campus.
Heavyweight boxing champion and Muslim minister, Muhammad Ali, spoke at AU on May 4, 1968 on the struggle of black men in America.
Before becoming the first African American woman to run for President, Shirley Chisholm spoke about the black protest movements in her 1970 speech.
In September 1971, Barry Goldwater spoke to a surprisingly friendly audience and fielded questions for an hour. He mentioned his support of President Nixon’s plans for economic recovery, and his thoughts on the South Vietnam elections.
Pioneering women’s rights activist and journalist Gloria Steinem spoke at AU on several occasions. In 1972, Steinem spoke on behalf of her work for the National Women's Political Caucus, which gave voice to women’s issues.
In September 1974, Senator George McGovern spoke to a skeptical audience on his campaign plan for the upcoming election.
In Spring 1986, Leslie Stahl spoke about her experience as CBS White House Correspondent and Face the Nation host at an event co-sponsored by AU's School of Communication and the KPU. Her lecture analyzed President Reagan’s media strategy to move blame away from the White House to deflect bad press, nicknaming Reagan as “Mr. Teflon.”
Political satirist Mark Russell performed his stand-up comedy act covering current events and musical parodies on March 13, 1988.
Coretta Scott King called women to action in her speech in 1988. She spoke in support of the Equal Rights Amendment and a women’s solidarity movement.
In 1991, Cesar Chavez rallied students to boycott grapes in support of the United Farm Workers Association, which advocated for the improvement of workers conditions in California.
South African Deputy President, FW deKlerk spoke about the responsibilities of those in political leadership positions, while drawing parallels between the civil rights movement and fight for freedom in South Africa in his speech on November 8, 1994.