President Biden delivered a commencement address at Morehouse College, a historically Black men’s institution in Atlanta, invoking scripture and personal tragedies from his past to inspire and encourage the graduates. He addressed the issue of manhood, emphasizing that it is about strength, respect, and dignity, not toxic behavior like hate and bigotry. Biden also criticized the actions of those who stormed the Capitol with Confederate flags and referred to them as not being patriots. The speech marked his first significant appearance before college students since protests over the war in Gaza began impacting campuses.
Biden called for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and highlighted the humanitarian crisis in the area, expressing concern over the situation. He acknowledged the impact of the war on his family, including his wife Jill Biden, who has urged him to work towards ending the conflict. The speech was crafted with input from White House officials, students, faculty, and alumni of Morehouse, reflecting a collaborative effort to address important issues. Some students engaged in respectful protests during the commencement ceremony, displaying signs of activism and advocacy.
Throughout his speech, Biden emphasized his commitment to addressing inequalities and promoting equality, highlighting his administration’s efforts to reduce child poverty and forgive student loan debt. He urged the graduates to consider his record and the diversity of his appointments, including the first Black female Supreme Court justice and the first Black woman vice president. Biden also shared personal stories of adversity, such as the loss of family members, to connect with the graduates who have faced significant challenges themselves.
Biden highlighted the importance of faith and hope in moments of despair, drawing on lessons from his own life and religious teachings. He acknowledged the struggles faced by Black communities in America and the need for systemic change to address racial inequalities. Despite facing opposition from some faculty, alumni, and students over the war in Gaza, Biden received both support and criticism during his address at Morehouse College. The event reflected the broader challenges facing the Biden administration in mobilizing and retaining support from Black voters.
The visit to Morehouse was part of a broader effort by Biden to engage with voters, particularly Black Americans, amid growing concerns about his approval ratings and voter apathy. Recent polls show declining support for the administration, driven by issues such as the war in Gaza and economic concerns. Biden’s trip to Detroit, following the Morehouse address, highlights his focus on reconnecting with voters in key battleground states. The need to effectively communicate the administration’s achievements and address voter concerns remains a priority as Biden seeks to secure support for a potential second term in office.
