President Joe Biden’s upcoming commencement address at Morehouse College has stirred up controversy and division on campus. Some students and faculty members are welcoming the opportunity for increased attention on the historically Black, all-male college, while others are apprehensive about the potential for protests related to Biden’s support of Israel’s campaign against Hamas. Biden’s address is seen as a chance for him to connect with young Black men, a demographic that recent polls suggest may be moving away from the president.
Biden’s support for Israel’s actions in Gaza has led to tension on college campuses across the country, complicating his outreach to progressive students who typically support Democratic politicians. While Biden has avoided college visits since facing interruptions during a speech in January, his appearance at Morehouse College is seen as a test of his appeal to young voters of color leading up to the fall elections. Biden and his advisers have been preparing for the speech in battleground Georgia, aiming to keep the focus on the graduates while acknowledging the potential for protests.
The decision to invite Biden to speak at Morehouse College was made before the Israel-Hamas war began, with the president set to receive an honorary degree. Both students and faculty members at Morehouse have expressed differing opinions on Biden’s presence, with some believing his speech will be impactful and authentic to the college, while others view it as a strategic move to win over Black male voters. Calls for Biden to address his support for Israel in his speech have been voiced by some students who feel perturbed by the tension in Gaza.
In response to the upcoming visit, student-led protests have taken place at Morehouse College, calling for divestment from Israeli companies and solidarity with oppressed Palestinian people. Some students are frustrated with both Biden and the college’s senior leadership for allowing the president to speak at the school. Morehouse College President David A. Thomas has defended the decision not to rescind Biden’s invitation, emphasizing the need to address divisive tensions and urging Biden to focus on issues related to the school and the wider community in his speech.
The White House and Morehouse College are implementing additional security measures in preparation for Biden’s visit, as protests are expected. Student volunteers assisting with the graduation ceremony are undergoing de-escalation training to address potential challenges during the event. Concerns have been raised by faculty members that the focus on Biden’s attendance may overshadow the celebration of the graduating students. The college is taking steps to ensure the event remains centered on the achievements of the nearly 500 students graduating.
Overall, Biden’s upcoming commencement address at Morehouse College is fraught with tension and conflicting opinions within the campus community. The president faces the challenge of navigating protests and addressing concerns related to his support for Israel while aiming to connect with young Black voters and emphasize themes of overcoming adversity and community engagement in his speech. The event serves as a test of Biden’s appeal to key demographics and his ability to address complex issues in a divisive political climate.
