SOUTH DEERFIELD — Recalling 50 years ago to the date, outgoing state Rep. Stephen Kulik spoke about what still sticks out to him from his own high school graduation.
It was 1968 and a time with social and political unrest. There was war, assignations, marches for civil rights and “deep questioning of some of the institutions and norms that have formed the basis of our democracy.”
“When I look around in 2018, I actually see many similarities to what was happening 50 years ago,” Kulik, who’s retiring after 25 years serving in the Legislature, told Frontier Regional School’s graduates Friday.
Kulik’s message to graduates was not about what side of the aisle they may sit in politically, but rather about making sure they’re at least in the room.
“Indeed right now, especially at this time, I believe it’s more critical than ever for your fresh perspectives and new voices to be a big part of addressing and solving society’s problems,” he said to the 73 graduates.
He encouraged them to register to vote and, if they stay in the area, participate in Town Meeting, “democracy in its purest form.”
While Kulik’s message was to engage politically and never feel your voice is too small, the student speakers reminded their fellow graduates to cherish the memories of their years here, as it shaped them and their ambitions.
“I know I can say I have a friend in every one of these graduates,” Class President Stephen Worthley said, sporting a king’s crown atop his graduation cap.
National Honor Society Representative Kelsey Jarvis left her classmates with this: “These memories are ones that will remain with us as we go onto bigger and better things,” as the sun set over the football field a day where rain gave way for the warmth of a summer-like day.