President Biden delivered a commencement address to young Black men at Morehouse College, reflecting on his own past and invoking scripture. He spoke about the toxic idea of manhood promoted by extremist forces, calling for strength, respect, and dignity. Biden also spoke out against the storming of the Capitol and called for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, expressing his family’s distress over the situation. Graduates, who are encouraged not to protest during the ceremony, displayed subtle signs of protest, such as sitting with their backs to Biden or wearing symbolic scarves.
Throughout his speech, Biden emphasized his commitment to correcting inequalities and supporting Black Americans. He highlighted his administration’s efforts to address issues like student loan debt forgiveness and reducing the poverty rate for Black children. He urged the graduates to have faith in moments of adversity and drew parallels between the challenges of his life, including personal tragedies, and the struggles they face in today’s society. Biden’s focus on religious inspiration and redemption aimed to contrast his leadership style with that of former President Trump.
Morehouse College, known for its tradition of producing well-rounded men who engage in social justice, posed a unique setting for Biden’s speech. Some faculty, alumni, and students had initially objected to his visit due to concerns about U.S. support for Israel in the Gaza conflict. However, despite initial tensions, Biden’s visit concluded with signs of both support and opposition from the crowd. Following his speech at Morehouse, Biden continued his efforts to win back support from Black voters by addressing an N.A.A.C.P. event in Detroit, highlighting the importance of these voters in his reelection bid.
Biden’s recent outreach to Black voters comes amid declining approval ratings and concerns about the economy, fueled partly by the war in Gaza. While Black voters played a crucial role in his 2020 election victory, recent polls show a decrease in support among this demographic. Issues like the economy and the ongoing conflict are contributing to growing apathy among Black voters, particularly in key battleground states like Michigan. Biden’s efforts to communicate his administration’s successes and engage with voters in these communities reflect his awareness of the need to address these concerns to secure reelection in 2024.
In his speeches and interactions with Black communities, Biden continues to emphasize his dedication to addressing racial inequalities and promoting social justice. By engaging directly with issues that matter to Black voters and acknowledging their concerns, Biden seeks to rebuild trust and support within these communities. As he navigates challenges like the Gaza conflict and economic uncertainty, Biden’s ability to connect with voters on a personal and policy level will be crucial in shaping his prospects for a second term in office.
