President Joe Biden is set to deliver the commencement address at Morehouse College on Sunday. This comes at a time of tension on college campuses regarding the conflict in the Middle East and Biden’s outreach to Black Americans.
Prior to his speech at the historically black and all-male Morehouse College, the administration has been engaging with students and faculty. Biden plans to meet with students and staff during his visit, as mentioned by a senior administration official.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated, “I think it will be a moving commencement address. I think it will meet the moment and I think you will hear directly from the president on how he sees obviously the future of this country and also the community that they represent.”
The administration has been heavily involved in crafting Biden’s speech, taking input from younger team members, senior advisers, and individuals with connections to Morehouse and other HBCUs.
Protests over the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza have erupted on college campuses nationwide, leading to a sensitive atmosphere. Biden is expected to respect peaceful protesters and work with Morehouse on managing any demonstrations.
Efforts to engage with Black Americans have been a focal point for the administration, with recent discussions focusing on historical events like Brown V. Board of Education. Furthermore, the administration has emphasized investments in HBCUs and initiatives to address racial disparities.
These engagements reflect the administration’s commitment to reaching out to Black voters ahead of the upcoming election, with efforts to showcase progress made under Biden’s leadership. Biden’s upcoming visits to Georgia and Michigan aim to engage with Black voters and highlight his administration’s achievements.
