Former President Joe Biden delivered a passionate speech at an AME church service in Galveston, Texas, addressing the controversy surrounding the designation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. He condemned critics of the holiday, accusing them of attempting to erase America’s history. Biden emphasized that the holiday represents a crucial part of the nation’s story, stating that slavery was ‘our original sin.’
Biden’s remarks included a veiled criticism of former President Donald Trump, whom he referred to as ‘this guy’ before stopping himself and making the Sign of the Cross to the applause of the congregation. He also highlighted concerns about ongoing efforts to remove historical narratives from textbooks and classrooms, arguing that such attempts cannot obscure the nation’s past. Biden further addressed the ongoing challenges faced by Black Americans and other minorities in accessing the ballot box, urging the public to support voter registration efforts.
On the other hand, Trump criticized the additional federal holiday, claiming it costs the U.S. billions of dollars in lost economic activity. He warned that the trend of designating holidays could eventually lead to every working day being a holiday. Some states, such as West Virginia, have issued Juneteenth proclamations but have chosen to keep state offices open on the day, reflecting a mixed response to the holiday. The White House was reached out to for comment, but no response was provided as of now.