Atlanta, GA – During his commencement address at historically Black Morehouse College, President Joe Biden acknowledged the students’ concerns about the Israel-Hamas war, expressing empathy for their protests and acknowledging the heartbreaking scenes from the conflict in Gaza. Biden emphasized his support for peaceful protests and called for an immediate ceasefire to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and bring home the hostages held by Hamas.
Addressing the graduates, Biden acknowledged the complexity and challenges of the Israel-Palestine conflict, recognizing the frustration and heartbreak felt by many, including himself and his family. This direct engagement with students marked a departure from his previous limited public remarks on college campus protests, showcasing a renewed effort to connect with Black constituents.
Biden’s address at Morehouse also touched on domestic issues, such as condemning former President Donald Trump’s rhetoric on immigrants, reflecting on the challenges faced by the class of 2024 amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder. The president highlighted the need for a fair and just democracy that works for all, especially in the face of ongoing racial injustice in the country.
The announcement of Biden as the commencement speaker at Morehouse sparked backlash among some alumni and faculty members who criticized his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Despite this, the ceremony proceeded without disruptions, although some individuals expressed their dissent by turning their backs during Biden’s speech and displaying Palestinian flags.
Valedictorian DeAngelo Jeremiah Fletcher used his platform to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the need for peace and compassion for both Palestinians and Israelis. Biden, in a symbolic gesture, stood and shook Fletcher’s hand in support of his message.
In the midst of ongoing protests and tensions surrounding Biden’s visit, the president also received an honorary degree from Morehouse before proceeding to Detroit for a speech at the local NAACP chapter’s annual Freedom Fund dinner. The visit to Georgia and Michigan highlighted the importance of Black voter turnout in key states for the upcoming election.
Biden’s outreach to Black constituents extended through commemorating key moments in the Civil Rights Movement, meeting with members of Black fraternities and sororities, and engaging with supporters in Detroit. The visit aimed to secure support from historically Democratic counties while navigating tensions and dissent around his reelection campaign.
The protests and demonstrations during Biden’s visit underscored the deep divisions and diverse perspectives within these communities, emphasizing the complex political landscape facing the president as he seeks to engage voters and secure support for his reelection bid.