Full Speech: Meghan Markle’s Surprise Graduation Address to Her Old High School

Summary

In this heartfelt graduation speech, the speaker addresses the Immaculate Heart High School Class of 2020, reflecting on the ongoing societal challenges of racism and injustice. Drawing from personal experiences and recent events, the speaker offers an apology for the world the graduates are inheriting while urging them to lead with love, compassion, and empathy. The speech encourages the graduates to use their voices and vote, emphasizing their role in rebuilding a more inclusive and just society. The speaker expresses pride and excitement for the graduates' future, cheering them on as they embark on the journey of positive change.

Takeaways

• 😀 Acknowledging the devastating events in the country, state, and hometown of LA during the graduation speech.
• 😀 Emphasizing the importance of speaking up and not remaining silent on issues of racial injustice.
• 😀 Recognizing the significance of individuals whose lives were lost to senseless acts of racism, such as George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Tamir Rice.
• 😀 Sharing a personal memory from the speaker’s high school years about volunteering and the lesson of putting others' needs above one's own fears.
• 😀 Apologizing for the world the graduates must face, where issues of racism still exist, drawing parallels with past events like the LA riots.
• 😀 Encouraging the graduates to reframe the challenges they face, not as an end, but as the beginning of meaningful change.
• 😀 Highlighting the necessity of rebuilding society and the importance of persistence in that process until foundational changes are made.
• 😀 Inspiring the graduates to lead with love, compassion, and empathy as they step into adulthood and make their own impacts.
• 😀 Empowering the graduates to use their voices for change, especially as many are coming of age to vote and participate in society.
• 😀 Expressing pride in the graduates and their potential to become leaders who will contribute to a better, more inclusive world.
• 😀 Closing with a message of congratulations and excitement about the graduates' future contributions to society.

Q & A

What is the speaker's main message to the graduating class?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of using their voices to create change, lead with empathy, and be part of rebuilding a better world. The focus is on the power of youth in driving progress and social justice.

Why does the speaker say that staying silent is not an option?

The speaker believes that silence in the face of injustice does not lead to change. By speaking out and taking action, people can make a difference in the world, especially in times of social unrest.

What specific events does the speaker reference to illustrate societal struggles?

The speaker references the senseless acts of violence and racism that led to protests, such as the deaths of George Floyd, Brianna Taylor, Tamir Rice, and others, along with the LA riots, which were sparked by racial injustice.

How does the speaker reflect on their own experiences during the LA riots?

The speaker recalls being a young teenager during the LA riots, witnessing the destruction and chaos firsthand, including ash falling from the sky, looting, and the tense atmosphere. This memory highlights the enduring impact of societal unrest.

What lesson did the speaker learn from their teacher in high school?

The speaker recalls a lesson from their teacher, Miss Pelea, who told them to always put others' needs above their own fears. This lesson stuck with them and was especially relevant in light of recent societal events.

What is the significance of the phrase 'We will rebuild' in the speech?

The phrase 'We will rebuild' signifies the ongoing effort to address societal issues and injustices. It emphasizes resilience and the commitment to rebuilding, even when the foundation is broken.

How does the speaker suggest that the graduating class can contribute to societal change?

The speaker encourages the graduating class to use their voices, lead with compassion, and take action. They also mention the importance of voting and empathy for those who may have a different perspective.

Why does the speaker focus on the idea of leading with love and compassion?

Leading with love and compassion is emphasized as a way to address societal challenges and heal divisions. The speaker believes these values will help the graduating class build a more inclusive and just world.

What is the significance of the speaker mentioning the age of the graduates (18 or turning 18)?

The mention of the graduates being 18 or turning 18 underscores their new responsibilities as young adults, particularly the power they now have to vote and influence change in society.

What final message does the speaker give to the graduating class?

The speaker expresses immense pride and excitement for the graduates, encouraging them to embrace their role in making a positive impact on the world. They convey strong support and a belief in the graduates' readiness to lead and create change.