Morehouse College has scheduled a meeting for this Thursday to give faculty members a chance to voice their concerns about President Joe Biden‘s upcoming commencement speech next month.
Provost Kendrick Brown expressed his enthusiasm about having a sitting president speak at Morehouse. “This aligns with Morehouse’s mission and our commitment to engaging with social justice issues and moral concerns,” he said.
Commencement speeches are typically a way for presidents to connect with young audiences and their dynamic energy. However, this year’s speeches are overshadowed by widespread pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses and opposition to Biden’s stance on Israel, adding tension to the event.
The White House recently announced that Biden will deliver only two commencement speeches this year, choosing Morehouse and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point as the venues.
Andrew Douglas, a Morehouse professor, highlighted the internal debate among students and faculty regarding potential protests during the upcoming commencement ceremony. Some faculty members are strongly opposed to sharing the stage with Biden, reflecting division within the community.
Douglas, a member of the faculty council, emphasized the disappointment expressed by many members regarding the decision to invite Biden without broader consultation with the campus community. He also discussed widespread concerns about the conflict in Gaza, attributing blame to the Biden administration for its involvement in months of violence and devastation.
In response to the criticism, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized that commencement speeches traditionally focus on graduates and their families. She acknowledged the unique challenges of the current moment but reiterated Biden’s commitment to delivering an uplifting message during these occasions.
The upcoming meeting between Morehouse’s leadership and faculty members signals an effort to address these concerns, although the administration has clarified that Biden’s invitation will not be rescinded.
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