Morehouse College valedictorian DeAngelo Fletcher called for a ceasefire in Gaza during his speech on Sunday, drawing applause from both fellow students and host President Joe Biden, as his administration continues to face opposition from college students in the US over his support for Israel.
Biden was behind the farewell ceremony at the historically black college in Atlanta, where Fletcher spoke about the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the devastation it has caused.
Fletcher, who had the Palestinian flag pinned to his stole and another symbol of solidarity on his cap, said: “The Israel-Gaza conflict has plagued its people for generations,” noting how “both sides have suffered heavy losses ” after the October attacks. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas.
“From the comfort of our homes, we watch as an unprecedented number of citizens mourn the loss of men, women and children as they call for the release of all hostages,” he continued. “For the first time in our lives, we have heard the world community sing one harmonious song that transcends language and culture.”
“It is my position as a Morehouse man, indeed as a human being, to call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip,” he declared to applause, with even Biden seen clapping behind him.
‘Hear the people of this world. Sing the song of righteous justice,” the graduate concluded.
After turning away from the lectern, Fletcher hugged Morehouse President David Thomas before exchanging a handshake and a few words with Biden.
During his own speech at the ceremony, Biden addressed the waves of student protests on college campuses across the country, saying he supports “peaceful, nonviolent” action.
“What is happening in Gaza and Israel is heartbreaking,” he added, saying his government has called for an “immediate” ceasefire in Gaza.
Last week in Washington DC, it was reported that members of the Biden administration told key lawmakers that they plan to send more than $1 billion in additional weapons and ammunition to Israel.
As Biden addressed graduates, their friends, families and teachers, some students turned their backs on him, and at least one held up a Palestinian flag, according to Axios.
However, others in the audience chanted the words “four more years” as he took the stage.
Check out Fletcher’s comments here:
“It is my position, as a Morehouse man – no, as a human being – to call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.”
– DeAngelo Fletcher, valedictorian of Morehouse’s class of 2024
Look at the Palestinian flag on top of his graduation cap. https://t.co/wZ7ypqwOVhpic.twitter.com/4HLfvQEDXm
— Big Mike from The Wood. (@oluwaburnerboy) May 19, 2024
