President Biden delivers a powerful commencement address at Howard University, highlighting the importance of unity, progress, and fighting against hate.
Washington, D.C. – On May 13, 2023, President Joe Biden delivered a heartfelt commencement address to the graduating class of Howard University. Speaking at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., President Biden emphasized the significance of unity, progress, and the ongoing battle for the soul of the nation.
Class of 2023, congratulations.
You’re a part of one of the most gifted, tolerant, talented, and best educated generations in our history – you’re the best of us.
You’ll decide who America will be.
And you won’t shoulder this burden alone. pic.twitter.com/Z10RJoNYmd
— President Biden (@POTUS) May 14, 2023
President Biden expressed his gratitude to the university’s President, Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick, for the invitation and acknowledged the distinguished faculty and staff in attendance. He commended the Class of 2023 for their achievements and resilience, recognizing their journey through hardships and their potential to create a new moment of hope and possibilities.
With Mother’s Day approaching, President Biden asked the graduates to stand and honor their mothers and grandmothers, highlighting the essential role of mothers in shaping society. He shared personal anecdotes and paid tribute to Congressman Jim Clyburn for his integrity and honored his longstanding commitment to public service.
The President also recognized the presence of Prime Minister Rowley and Dr. Tony Allen, President of Delaware State University, emphasizing the importance of their contributions to partnership, climate change, and the advancement of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
President Biden proudly declared his commitment to supporting HBCUs and acknowledged the influence of the Divine Nine, a collection of historically Black Greek letter organizations, in shaping policies and advocating for change in the White House.
Reflecting on Howard University’s historic significance, President Biden highlighted its role as a proving ground for leaders in various fields. He acknowledged the university’s legacy of promoting excellence, leadership, and truth, and credited Howard for fostering trailblazing intellectuals, including Vice President Kamala Harris.
Addressing the challenges faced by the nation, President Biden drew from personal experiences and historical events to emphasize the ongoing battle against hate, racism, and violence. He stressed the need to confront these issues head-on and reaffirmed his commitment to combating white supremacy, political extremism, and the erosion of democracy.
The President urged the graduates to stand up for truth, reject hate, and protect fundamental rights and freedoms. He emphasized the significance of voting rights, affordable healthcare, housing, and equality for all Americans. President Biden praised the graduates for their involvement in the democratic process, which has resulted in historic progress.
Speaking on the importance of the graduates’ role in shaping the future, President Biden highlighted their potential to change the trajectory of the country. He cited the accomplishments made possible by their votes, such as the appointment of the first Black woman to the Supreme Court and the progress in addressing climate change.
President Biden acknowledged the impact of student debt on millions of Americans, especially those from marginalized communities, and expressed his commitment to providing relief and support. He criticized the opposition from some members of the Republican Party who have sought to block these measures.
In conclusion, President Biden called upon the graduates to continue the work of redeeming the soul of the nation. He expressed his confidence in their ability to lead and create a future that celebrates diversity, learns from history, and embraces progress. He reminded them that their voices and actions matter and will shape the destiny of America.
President Biden’s commencement address at Howard University resonated with the graduates and underscored the ongoing battle for the soul of the nation. His call for unity, progress, and the rejection of hate serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead and the graduates’ pivotal role in shaping the future of the United States.