‘Genocide Joe’s Got To Go’: Ceasefire Protesters March, Turn Backs On Biden At Morehouse Commencement

AP Photo/John Bazemore

President Joe Biden was met with protests and “Genocide Joe” signs for his commencement speech at Morehouse College in Georgia on Sunday. And a few graduates and faculty engaged in silent protest during the speech, as well.

Biden’s speech at the venerable HBCU in Atlanta focused on race and politics, and several times made obvious references to Donald Trump without using the Republican nominee’s name.

On Israel and Gaza, Biden called the situation a “humanitarian crisis” and emphasized that he’s calling for “an immediate ceasefire.”

Nevertheless, many protesters outside the ceremony and some in attendance demonstrated their objection to having Biden speak due to the administration’s support for the Israeli people.

Cameras caught some in the ceremony who faced away as Biden spoke, others were seen in photos or social media, with various estimates of more than six but fewer than 20 attendees having turned their backs.

In a unique and impactful protest during the commencement address at Morehouse College, some students turned their backs on President Biden. The act was a powerful statement against the administration's handling of certain issues, showcasing the students' desire for change and… pic.twitter.com/q0kyHn5mym

— Pastor Robert L. Carpenter, II (@RobCarpenter2) May 19, 2024

Outside the ceremony the latest campus protest was far more vocal and active, with multiple signs accusing Biden of supporting “genocide” along with calls for “ceasefire” and threats to “Remember” on election day.

AP Photo/Brynn Anderson

AP Photo/Brynn Anderson

A message to #Morehouse alum from 2006 alumnus Basheer Jones, who joined the protest against Morehouse’s decision to allow Biden to speak at commencement despite overwhelming outcry: Withhold your dollars. “Your degree means nothing if you’re not using it to fight for justice.” pic.twitter.com/p9noTdrWVN

— Fiza Pirani (@fizapirani) May 19, 2024

BREAKING: The Protest against Biden at Morehouse is much stronger outside. pic.twitter.com/wSyvUzDnWY

— Stu (@thestustustudio) May 19, 2024

President Biden made note of the protests during his remarks.

“I want to say this very clearly: I support peaceful, nonviolent protest,” he said. “Your voices should be heard, and I promise you, I hear them.”

To date, many of the campus protests have not been peaceful, and the president and his administration have condemned the anti-Semitism, intimidation, and violence that have been present at several campus anti-Israel “encampments.”

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