Biden claps as Morehouse valedictorian calls for Gaza cease-fire in commencement speech
Morehouse College valedictorian DeAngelo Fletcher called for a cease-fire in Gaza during his commencement speech on Sunday, receiving applause from both fellow students and guest President Joe Biden as his administration continues to face pushback from college students across the U.S. over his support for Israel.
Biden sat behind the valedictorian during the ceremony at the historically Black college in Atlanta, where Fletcher spoke about the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the devastation it’s wrought.
Fletcher, who had the Palestinian flag pinned to his stole and another symbol of solidarity decorating his cap, said, “The Israel-Gaza conflict has plagued its people for generations,” noting how “both sides have suffered heavy casualties” following the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas.
“From the comforts of our homes, we watch an unprecedented number of civilians mourn the loss of men, women and children while calling for the release of all hostages,” he continued. “For the first time in our lives, we’ve heard the global community sing one harmonious song that transcends language and culture.”
“It is my stance as a Morehouse man, nay as a human being, to call for an immediate and permanent cease-fire in the Gaza Strip,” he declared to applause, with even Biden seen clapping behind him. [Continue reading…]
How sad to see the great Morehouse College embrace the war criminal and genocide enabler Joe Biden as an exemplar of peace and justice! The event was more propaganda for his failing campaign than an affirmation of the precious Black Brothers graduating from Morehouse! Martin…
— Cornel West (@CornelWest) May 19, 2024
#Morehouse professor of political science @ajd_theory skipped commencement to be in the streets with protesters this morning while Biden gave the keynote address despite significant student, faculty and alumni outcry. #Atlanta pic.twitter.com/mN2xdVJMtH
— Fiza Pirani (@fizapirani) May 19, 2024
An age divide: As President Biden takes the stage, Morehouse College alumni on the left give him a standing ovation, while the graduating class remains in their seats. pic.twitter.com/uCDlgcuKH0
— Fritz Farrow (@FritzFarrow) May 19, 2024