ABSTRACT
In Robert Francis Kennedy's own words, his intention was to help the poor and that meant "to give them power". The Kerner Commission Report is significant because it saw the problems of black people in American society as a result of the white-controlled social structure. Robert Kennedy's agreement with the findings of the Kerner Report explains why he understood that the best way to help the poor meant "to give them power." Robert Kennedy's declaration that his understanding of the role of Community Action Programs for the poor was "to give them power" signalled his strong and unwavering commitment that the poor must have a voice and, they must have the opportunity to engage in "maximum feasible participation." Robert Kennedy and other advocates of the War on Poverty were faced with trying to determine the best approach as they sought to empower the poor in rather difficult political circumstances.
