Biden asks for honesty, decency, and dignity during Day of Prayer amidst college riots
President Biden recently issued a proclamation to mark the National Day of Prayer with a message urging cooperation and decorum in the face of ongoing disruption and violence on college campuses across the nation.
The proclamation, released on Wednesday ahead of the National Day of Prayer on May 2, emphasized the importance of unity and faith during challenging times. “Scripture tells us to rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and be constant in prayer,” Biden wrote in the proclamation. “This year, my prayer for our Nation is that we keep faith that our best days are ahead of us and continue to believe in honesty, decency, dignity, and respect.”
President Joe Biden’s call for peace and nonviolence comes as colleges and universities in the U.S. are experiencing widespread chaos due to student protests demanding divestment from Israel and more. At Columbia University in New York City, students recently barricaded themselves inside a campus building after weeks of demonstrations, leading to a police raid by the NYPD to restore order.
Similar disruptions are occurring at campuses such as the University of California Los Angeles, Tulane, Portland State University, and others, as students continue to voice their demands for change.
On the National Day of Prayer, President Biden directly addressed the situation, condemning the actions of students that have resulted in disorder on college campuses. “Vandalism, trespassing, breaking windows, shutting down campus operations, forcing the cancellation of classes and events—none of this constitutes peaceful protest,” Biden stated. “Threatening and intimidating individuals, instilling fear—these actions do not align with peaceful demonstrations. They are illegal. While dissent is a fundamental aspect of democracy, it must never escalate to disorder.”
White House Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates echoed Biden’s sentiments, emphasizing the President’s condemnation of any anti-Semitic or dangerous behavior exhibited during the demonstrations.
President Biden’s message on the National Day of Prayer emphasized the need for respect, understanding, and peaceful dialogue in the face of conflicts. “May we see each other not as enemies, but as fellow human beings, each created in the image of God and valued in His sight,” he continued. “May we strive to include everyone, provide equal opportunities, and eliminate hate from our midst. Together, we can achieve anything if we unite in purpose.”
While the protests on college campuses continue to draw attention and spark debate, President Biden’s call for unity and respect serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining decorum and nonviolence in all forms of activism and advocacy.
As the nation navigates through these challenging times, the message of hope, patience, and prayer highlighted by President Biden offers a guiding light towards a future built on mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence.
