Biden reassures Morehouse graduates that he is listening to their protests against the war in Gaza

President Joe Biden addressed Morehouse College graduates during his commencement speech, acknowledging their voices of protest over the Israel-Hamas war. He expressed support for peaceful nonviolent protest and emphasized the heartbreaking scenes from the conflict in Gaza. Biden called for an immediate cease-fire to stop the fighting and bring home the hostages taken during the conflict.

The president’s speech also touched on American democracy, condemning Donald Trump’s rhetoric on immigrants and addressing the challenges faced by Black communities. Biden highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and George Floyd’s murder on the class of 2024, prompting questions about whether democracy truly works for everyone.

While there was some backlash over Biden’s invitation to speak at Morehouse, the event proceeded without major disruptions. Several graduates and a faculty member displayed symbolic gestures of protest during the speech, including sitting with their backs turned and draping a Palestinian flag.

The valedictorian, DeAngelo Jeremiah Fletcher, called for an immediate and permanent cease-fire in Gaza, emphasizing the suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis. Biden shook Fletcher’s hand after his speech and was awarded an honorary degree by the college.

Biden’s outreach to Black constituents continued with a planned visit to Detroit for an NAACP dinner. The president’s efforts to engage with Black voters in key states like Georgia and Michigan are crucial for his reelection bid in November’s expected rematch against Donald Trump.