Graduates turn their backs to Biden during commencement speech
19 أيار 2024 19:56
US President Joe Biden’s commencement address at Morehouse College has spurred some students to turn their backs to him over his support for Israel and its war on Gaza.
“It’s a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, that’s why I’ve called for an immediate ceasefire,” Biden said.
“I know it angers and frustrates many of you including in my family,” he said.
One graduate appeared to hold up a Palestinian flag briefly and an audience member stood and turned their back with their fist raised.
Some graduates wore keffiyehs – the black-and-white headscarves that have become an emblem of solidarity with the Palestinian cause – tied around their gowns, while the valedictorian called for a permanent and immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
“It’s a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, that’s why I’ve called for an immediate ceasefire,” Biden said.
“I know it angers and frustrates many of you including in my family,” he said.
One graduate appeared to hold up a Palestinian flag briefly and an audience member stood and turned their back with their fist raised.
Some graduates wore keffiyehs – the black-and-white headscarves that have become an emblem of solidarity with the Palestinian cause – tied around their gowns, while the valedictorian called for a permanent and immediate ceasefire in Gaza.