President Joe Biden delivered a commencement address at Morehouse College, calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza. This was Biden’s first remarks on a college campus since protests swept campuses across the country, condemning Israel’s ongoing invasion of Gaza. The President stated that his administration is working to end the conflict in Gaza and push for a two-state solution for the future. Despite the sensitive topic, no major protests or disruptions took place during the speech.
During the speech, a few students and at least one faculty member displayed Palestinian flags and turned their backs to the president. Some students silently walked out as Biden was awarded an honorary degree. Before Biden spoke, valedictorian DeAngelo Fletcher called for an immediate and permanent cease-fire in the Gaza Strip. Biden joined in the applause after Fletcher’s statement and shook the graduate’s hand after he left the stage, showing support for the sentiment expressed.
The commencement address comes amidst a wave of graduate season disruptions. Pro-Palestinian protests erupted on college campuses in April, demanding universities divest from companies with ties to Israel and opposing the war in Gaza. Many of these encampments ended violently after police were called in to dismantle tents and arrest protesters. Despite calls to rescind the invitation, Morehouse College proceeded with Biden as the commencement speaker. President David A. Thomas stated that the ceremony would be halted immediately if any disruptive behavior occurs during the speech.
Biden promised $16 billion in additional investment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) last week, receiving enthusiastic applause from Morehouse graduates and faculty. He highlighted the lack of access to endowments for most HBCUs in comparison to other private colleges. Biden also criticized the rhetoric of some Americans who claim that immigrants poison the country, quoting former President Trump. This marks the second time a president has spoken at Morehouse College, with then-President Obama delivering the commencement address in 2013.
As Biden spoke, a faculty member unfurled a flag of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, likely in protest of the ongoing conflict in central Africa. The President’s remarks at Morehouse College addressed pressing issues including the conflict in Gaza, investment in HBCUs, and the importance of supporting marginalized communities. Biden’s presence at the historically Black college reflects his administration’s commitment to addressing social justice and advocating for peace and diplomacy on a global scale.
