President Joe Biden is set to give a speech on the rising tide of antisemitism as protests continue in support of Palestine and against Israeli actions in Gaza, leading to a pushback from some young voters. Despite Biden’s long-standing support for Israel, pressure has mounted as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with over 34,000 people killed since October 7. Ceasefire talks in Cairo and Doha are ongoing, but there are concerns about a potential Israeli military invasion into the city of Rafah, where many civilians are seeking refuge.
Biden is scheduled to speak at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum’s annual Days of Remembrance ceremony in honor of the 6 million Jews killed in the Holocaust and to condemn the alarming rise in antisemitism in the US. The speech is expected to address recent campus protests and the need to combat antisemitism while supporting the right to peaceful demonstration. The administration has been vocal in denouncing antisemitism throughout the Israel-Hamas conflict, but the speech comes amidst a dire situation in Gaza and increasing protests at home that are challenging Biden’s attempt to maintain unity among young voters.
The speech will draw a connection between the Holocaust and the current rise in antisemitism, emphasizing the need to confront hatred wherever it appears. Biden will also highlight the events of October 7 and the importance of not denying the horrors that occurred. While the president has been consistent in condemning antisemitism, his support for Israel during the Gaza conflict has sparked protests and scrutiny, especially as Israel considers a military assault on Rafah, a move strongly cautioned against by the Biden administration.
The administration is also responding to pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses, with over 2,000 arrests since April 18. Biden is expected to reaffirm the right to free speech while condemning antisemitism and violence on campuses. The administration’s response has evolved in light of reports of physical assaults and harassment of Jewish students, with Education Secretary Miguel Cardona condemning antisemitism on campuses. Second gentleman Doug Emhoff has also been actively engaged in addressing antisemitism and supporting Jewish campus leaders.
In addition to the speech, the Biden administration is implementing new actions to counter antisemitism, including sending letters to school districts and colleges about discrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, providing resources for campus safety, and convening technology firms to address antisemitic content online. The speech coincides with actions taken to mark Holocaust Remembrance Day and does not aim to draw a political contrast with former President Donald Trump, despite concerns about Biden’s eroding support among young voters due to his stance on the Gaza conflict.
As Biden continues to navigate the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict and rising antisemitism, his administration is working to address the challenges faced by the Jewish community and combat hatred in all its forms. The speech and accompanying actions signal a commitment to standing against antisemitism while upholding democratic values and the right to peaceful protest. Biden’s efforts to address these issues come at a critical time as tensions escalate in Gaza and protests continue across the country.
