President Biden Faces Backlash Over Morehouse College Commencement Address

President Joe Biden speaks on the grounds of Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, Jan. 11, 2022, in Atlanta. Biden will deliver the commencement address at Morehouse University Sunda

President Joe Biden is set to deliver the commencement address at Morehouse College, a historically Black male-only institution, on Sunday. This appearance provides a crucial opportunity for Biden to engage with a Black audience, especially amidst concerns over his unwavering support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas in Gaza.

The White House has hinted that Biden may address the students' and faculty's worries at Morehouse regarding his stance on the war. This comes after weeks of student protests on college campuses nationwide.

Biden's speech at Morehouse is part of a broader outreach to Black constituents, as he aims to shore up support among these voters ahead of the upcoming election. Following his address at Morehouse, Biden will travel to Detroit to speak at an NAACP dinner.

Addressing concerns over Israel-Hamas conflict at Morehouse.

Biden to speak at Morehouse College commencement.

Outreach to Black voters in Georgia and Michigan for reelection support.

Preparation for speech includes engagement with Black groups and individuals.

Morehouse President defends Biden's invitation amid backlash.

Silent protests allowed during ceremony in response to student opposition.

Biden to visit Black-owned small business in Detroit.

Keynote address at NAACP's Freedom Fund dinner in Detroit.

Georgia and Michigan, where Biden narrowly won in 2020, are pivotal states in the upcoming election. The president's engagement with Black voters in these states is crucial for his reelection bid.

Biden has been actively preparing for his speech at Morehouse, acknowledging the challenges of the current moment and the diverse opinions within the community. He has engaged with various Black groups and individuals in recent days, including meeting with plaintiffs from the Brown v. Board of Education case and members of Black fraternities and sororities.

Despite some backlash from faculty and alumni over his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, Morehouse President David Thomas has defended Biden's invitation, emphasizing the college's commitment to social justice and political activism.

While some students remain opposed to Biden's appearance, Thomas has expressed willingness to accommodate silent protests during the ceremony but has warned against disruptions.

In Detroit, Biden is expected to visit a Black-owned small business before delivering a keynote address at the NAACP's Freedom Fund dinner. This event presents an opportunity for Biden to connect with voters in Wayne County, a historically Democratic stronghold that has shown signs of resistance to his reelection.

Protest rallies are planned in Dearborn, Michigan, against Biden's visit, reflecting the complex political landscape he faces as he seeks to secure support from diverse communities.