Biden Listens to Morehouse Graduates’ Protests Against Gaza War
President Joe Biden addressed the graduating class of Morehouse College in a commencement speech, acknowledging the voices of students protesting the Israel-Hamas conflict. He expressed support for peaceful protest and recognized the heartbreaking scenes from the conflict in Gaza.
Biden emphasized the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and called for an immediate cease-fire to end the fighting and bring home the hostages taken during the conflict. He acknowledged the complexity of the situation and the impact it has on many, including his own family.
The president’s speech also focused on American democracy, condemning rhetoric on immigrants and highlighting the challenges faced by the class of 2024, who began college during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder. Biden questioned whether democracy truly worked for everyone, especially in the face of ongoing racial injustices.
The decision to have Biden as the commencement speaker at Morehouse College led to some backlash due to his handling of the war. However, despite concerns, the event proceeded without major disruptions. Some attendees expressed their dissent by turning their backs during the address or displaying flags symbolizing different causes.
The valedictorian of the class addressed the Gaza conflict in his speech, calling for an immediate cease-fire and recognizing the suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis. Biden acknowledged the student’s words and received an honorary degree from the college.
Following the ceremony at Morehouse College, Biden headed to Detroit to speak at an NAACP dinner, as part of his outreach to Black constituents. Georgia and Michigan are expected to play pivotal roles in the upcoming presidential election, and Biden’s efforts to connect with Black voters in these states are crucial for his reelection bid.
Biden’s interactions with members of the Black community, including meetings with plaintiffs involved in the Brown v. Board of Education case and members of Black fraternities and sororities, reflect his commitment to engaging with diverse groups of constituents.
In Detroit, Biden planned to visit a Black-owned small business and deliver the keynote address at the NAACP’s Freedom Fund dinner, aiming to connect with a large audience and address important issues facing the community.
His visit to Wayne County, with its significant Arab American population, also underscores the importance of engaging with diverse communities and addressing their concerns. Despite planned protests against his visit, Biden remains focused on reaching out to a wide range of voters in his bid for reelection.
Overall, Biden’s speeches at Morehouse College and the NAACP dinner highlight his efforts to connect with Black voters and diverse communities, recognizing the importance of their support in the upcoming election.
