A close-up analog photograph of a young person speaking at a microphone on a large convention stage, red and blue bunting in the background, warm amber stage lighting, visible film grain.

Media Coverage

Kids for Kerry and its founder Ilana Wexler captured national attention during the 2004 presidential campaign. From print interviews to television appearances, the story of a 12-year-old from Oakland, California mobilizing kids for political action resonated across the country.

TIME For Kids Interview

Ilana Wexler was featured in TIME For Kids, interviewed by TFK Kid Reporters Avery Stone and Lily Wasserman. In the interview, Ilana shared what inspired her to start Kids for Kerry and offered advice on how other kids could get involved in the political process.

She emphasized that young people don't need to wait until they're old enough to vote — they can volunteer, write letters, talk to their families, and make their voices heard right now.

Convention Speech Coverage

Ilana's appearance as the youngest speaker at the Democratic National Convention in Boston generated widespread media attention. News outlets across the country covered her speech, highlighting her message that kids care deeply about the future of the country and the planet.

Video recordings of the convention speech are available in RealMedia and QuickTime formats on our TV & Radio page. An MP3 audio version is also available for download.

Campaign Trail Appearances

Throughout the 2004 campaign season, Kids for Kerry was featured in local and national media covering youth political engagement. Coverage included appearances at Kerry fundraising events, Teresa Heinz Kerry events, and radio interviews — including a segment on KFOG radio.

For a full list of video and audio recordings, visit the TV & Radio page.