The president of Morehouse College said he will halt ceremonies during the school’s Sunday graduation if there are major disruptions during President Biden’s scheduled commencement address.
“What we will not allow is disruptive behavior that prevents the ceremony or services from proceeding in a manner that those in attendance can participate and enjoy,” said school president David Thomas. told CNNgiving the example of “prolonged shouting at the president while he speaks”.
“I have also made the decision not to ask police to remove individuals from graduation with zip ties. If faced with the choice, I will cease ceremonies at the site if we reach that position,” Thomas said.
Biden is making a stop at the historically black, all-male college in Atlanta in the wake of protests on campuses across the country, as young progressives express their frustration with the administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war.
Some students and teachers allegedly raised concerns about the president’s visit, citing concerns about protests — and that Biden’s speech could overshadow the graduation event.
Steve Benjamin, head of the administration’s Office of Public Engagement, met with students before the course began to address these concerns.
“People have different thoughts about what they would like to hear,” Benjamin told reporters on Thursday. “We listened very carefully. We received these messages and shared them with the president and his speechwriting team.”
The visit also comes as Biden works to reach young voters and voters of color, amid signs that some critical voting blocs are souring on the party.
A week after Morehouse, Biden is scheduled to deliver remarks to the U.S. Military Academy at its commencement on May 25.
This story originally appeared on thehill.com read the full story
