In a powerful speech at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, President Biden drew a stark parallel between the segregationists of the 1950s and modern-day extremists, including his predecessor, Donald Trump, and his allies.
Biden’s remarks came as he met with Black leaders to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the landmark Brown v Board of Education decision, which paved the way for integration across the United States.
Biden recounted meeting the Little Rock Nine, who faced racist abuse and violence as they integrated Little Rock’s Central High School in 1957. He argued that the same animus driving segregationists then is now manifesting in efforts to gut affirmative action and diversity initiatives.
Biden Delivers Scathing Critique of MAGA Movement, Draws Comparison to Segregationists in NAACP Speech
Biden denounced Trump and his “MAGA Republican allies” for leading an “extreme movement” backed by a Supreme Court that has rolled back progress on affirmative action. He emphasized that this movement seeks a country “for some, not for all.”
Biden’s speech was part of a broader push to engage with the African American community amid sagging approval ratings among young Black voters.
He later met with the presidents of the influential “Divine Nine” network of Black sororities and fraternities and will speak at Morehouse College in Atlanta, a prestigious historically Black institution.
Biden highlighted the vital role of historically Black colleges and universities, noting that they have educated a disproportionate number of Black doctors, dentists, judges, and even Vice President Kamala Harris.
He emphasized his commitment to defending freedoms and expanding access to education and jobs for people of color, contrasting his vision with the restrictive policies of his predecessor and his allies.
