President Biden marked the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education on Thursday by meeting with plaintiffs and their families at the White House. This event was aimed at solidifying support among Black Americans, who played a crucial role in his election victory in 2020.
During the meeting, Mr. Biden expressed gratitude to the litigants for their bravery in challenging racial segregation in schools, a move that eventually led to a groundbreaking legal ruling.
Cheryl Brown Henderson, daughter of lead plaintiff Oliver L. Brown, shared that Mr. Biden acknowledged the risks taken by those involved in the case during a time when Jim Crow laws were still prevalent.
The meeting in the Oval Office is part of a series of events planned to emphasize Mr. Biden’s commitment to the Black community. The culmination will be his commencement address at Morehouse College, a historically Black institution, on Sunday.
Mr. Biden intends to highlight past achievements for Black Americans while showcasing his own accomplishments, such as the increase in Black household wealth and the record-low Black unemployment rate last year.
Stephen K. Benjamin, senior adviser to Mr. Biden, emphasized that the president is actively shaping history every day, not just reflecting on past events like the Brown case. However, recent polls indicate growing dissatisfaction among young, Black, and Hispanic voters, posing a challenge to Mr. Biden’s Democratic support base.
While some campuses are experiencing unrest over issues like the conflict in Gaza, Morehouse College has remained relatively quiet, given its legacy of civil rights activism.
Representative James E. Clyburn defended Mr. Biden, stating that the perceived decline in Black support is exaggerated. He praised the president’s policies, particularly efforts to address issues like lead poisoning and high insulin costs affecting Black communities.
White House officials highlighted the significance of Mr. Biden’s meeting with the Brown v. Board of Education plaintiffs, underscoring his ongoing commitment to civil rights causes.
While Mr. Biden’s stance on busing for school integration has evolved over the years, his recent engagement with the Brown case plaintiffs signifies a renewed focus on honoring Black history and achievements.
Janai S. Nelson, president of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, praised the courage of those involved in pivotal civil rights moments like Brown v. Board of Education, emphasizing the need to recognize their contributions more prominently.
Zach Montague contributed reporting.
