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On Friday, President Joe Biden traveled to South Carolina to deliver the commencement address for the graduates at South Carolina University.
South Carolina Congressman and House Majority Whip James Clyburn marched with graduating seniors, something he didn’t get to do when he graduated because the school didn’t hold December commencement ceremonies at that time.
Biden spoke about the opportunity the graduating class has in this country.
A few classes, every once in a few generations, enter at a point in American history where it actually has a chance to change the trajectory of the country,” Biden said. “You face that inflection point today, and I’m confident you will meet the moment.”
Biden also spoke about the legacy of the importance of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
“You’re ready because you’re part of a proud and sacred tradition, an HBCU tradition, more than 180 years of excellence,” Biden said. “Institutions that instill a sense of purpose and commitment to make a difference in all their students, not just to lift up yourself but to lift up others; institutions grounded in the belief that every American of every race, background and zip code should have a fair and equal chance to get as far as their god-given talents give them.”
Biden went on to note that, “HBCUs have helped produce 40% of all Black engineers in America, 50% of all the Black lawyers in America, 70% of all the Black doctors and dentists in America, and 80% of all the Black judges in America.”
Biden pledged to “keep up the fight” to pass voting rights legislation that remains stalled in Congress due to Republican opposition.
“I’ve never seen anything like the unrelenting assault on the right to vote. Never,” Biden said.
“This battle is not over,” Biden added. “We’re going to keep up the fight until we get it done and you’re going to keep up the fight and we need your help badly.”
Biden said his administration was “just getting started” on several issues and would fight for police reform and reducing gun violence.
After his speech, Biden was presented with an honorary doctorate from the university.
