President Biden delivered the commencement address at Morehouse College in Atlanta, discussing his history as vice president under President Obama, the war in Israel, and campus protests. He emphasized the need for Black students to be ten times better than anyone else to get a fair shot and criticized Republicans for not seeing Black people in the future of America. Biden also called for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and endorsed a two-state solution as the only solution to the conflict.
During a student’s address calling for an immediate and permanent cease-fire in Gaza, Biden could be seen clapping in support of the idea. This moment hinted at the contents of his address, where he unequivocally called for Israel to impose an immediate cease-fire. Biden also criticized Georgia’s election laws, claiming that voters are banned from receiving food and water while in line at polling places. The law actually prohibits poll workers and others from actively distributing water or food to voters within 150 feet of a polling place.
While some students and faculty protested Biden’s speech by turning their backs on him, the protest was not widespread and did not disrupt his address. This small protest highlighted the continued unrest at college campuses across the country, where anti-Israel protests have led to some universities canceling their commencement ceremonies. Prior to Biden’s address, some students had urged the college to rescind his invitation, citing his actions in the Middle East as insulting, especially during an election year. Despite these protests, Biden’s address at Morehouse College emphasized the importance of addressing racial inequality and the conflict in Israel.
Biden’s appearance at Morehouse College sparked controversy and protests among some students and alumni, who criticized his actions in the Middle East and questioned his selection as the commencement speaker. Despite this backlash, Biden used the opportunity to address issues of racial inequality and the war in Israel, calling for an immediate cease-fire and endorsing a two-state solution. His speech touched on the challenges that Black students face in America and highlighted the need for progress and unity in the face of ongoing conflicts and unrest.
While some Morehouse students and alumni expressed disappointment and frustration with Biden’s address, others viewed it as an opportunity to engage with important issues and discussions. Biden’s call for a cease-fire in Gaza and his criticism of Georgia’s election laws sparked debate and reflection among the audience. Overall, Biden’s commencement address at Morehouse College highlighted the complexities and challenges facing America today, while also emphasizing the importance of unity, progress, and dialogue in building a better future for all.
