Morehouse Grads Turn Their Backs on Biden, Walk Out of Ceremony

During the commencement ceremony at Morehouse College on Sunday, several graduates turned their backs on President Joe Biden as he delivered his address, and some even walked out in protest. This notable demonstration at one of the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) coincided with ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Protest Details

As President Biden spoke, at least seven graduates and a faculty member turned their backs in protest. According to The New York Times, a group of students also walked out as Biden received an honorary degree. Some of the protesting students wore Palestinian flags or keffiyeh scarves, signaling their stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

DeAngelo Jeremiah Fletcher, the valedictorian, expressed his solidarity with the Gaza Strip before Biden's speech, calling for an immediate ceasefire. Biden acknowledged Fletcher’s statement with applause and later addressed the conflict in his own speech, emphasizing his support for peaceful protest and a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.

Biden’s Address

In his address, Biden interwove comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict with statements highlighting his administration’s inclusion of Black individuals in government and judicial appointments. “I support peaceful, non-violent protest. Your voices should be heard. And I promise you, I hear them,” Biden said. He reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis.

Pre-Ceremony Concerns

Leading up to the ceremony, there were faculty concerns about the selection of Biden as the commencement speaker amid student protests over the Israel-Hamas war. Kendrick Brown, Morehouse’s provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, acknowledged these concerns in an email, inviting faculty to discuss their perspectives but maintaining that the college would not rescind its invitation to Biden.

Shifting Political Support

This incident occurs amid shifting political support among Black voters, particularly Black men, who have increasingly indicated support for former President Donald Trump in the upcoming 2024 election. Polls suggest this trend is significant in several battleground states, including Georgia.

Conclusion

The protest at Morehouse College underscores the intersection of global political issues and domestic political dynamics, reflecting broader discontent and shifting allegiances among voters. Share this article to keep others informed about these developments, and consider subscribing to our newsletter for more insights and updates.