On Monday (June 10), President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris gave powerful remarks at their Juneteenth concert, which took place on the White House lawn. Biden’s speech was used to warn attendees how Republicans are trying to set Black America back.
“Taking away your freedoms, making it harder for Black people to vote or have your vote counted. Closing doors of opportunity, attacking the values of diversity, equity and inclusion. If you can believe it, banning books about Black experience,” Biden said.
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“America is a promise — a promise of freedom, liberty, and justice. The story of Juneteenth, as we celebrate it, is the story of our ongoing fight to realize that promise — not for some, but for all,” Harris also stated.
The pair, along with second gentleman Doug Emhoff, welcomed dozens of state and federal lawmakers for the star-studded event. Here are the best moments.
President Joe Biden’s Memorable Remarks
America’s commander-in-chief used his speech to remind participants that the “White House lawn’s never seen anything like this before” regarding the Juneteenth festivities. “Our history is not just about the past, it’s about our present and our future. It’s whether that future is a future for all of us, not just for some of us,” Biden said.
Vice President Kamala Harris Takes The Podium
At the event, Harris emphasized how the upcoming presidential election could result in a terrifying future for Black Americans. “Because while we celebrate a holiday dedicated to teaching and honoring America’s full history, extremists across our country attempt to ban books and erase our past,” Harris stated. “And on this point, let us be very clear: Black history is American history.”
Star-Studded Front Row
Actor Billy Porter, U.S. Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, Kamala Harris, Joe Biden and Philonise Floyd — the brother of George Floyd — enjoyed the Juneteenth concert on the South Lawn of the White House.
Having A Little Kiki
Actor Billy Porter and Vice President Kamala Harris had a little moment during the epic festivities.
Kirk Franklin Brings Down The House
Kirk Franklin gave a rousing performance during the concert and even welcomed Kamala Harris to dance with him onstage.
A Very Royal Moment
Shortly after welcoming her to the stage, Kirk Franklin kissed the hand of Vice President Kamala Harris, which made for quite the royal moment.
Trombone Shorty Takes The Stage
The tremendously talented Trombone Shorty is no stranger to the White House and impressed onlookers with a fantastic performance.
A Beautiful Set From Gladys Knight
The one and only Gladys Knight sung classics such as “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” and “Midnight Train to Georgia.”
Doug E. Fresh Gets In The Zone
Hip-hop legend Doug E. Fresh took in the special moment during his captivating Juneteenth set.
The “Godmother Of Soul” Immensely Shines
Of course, Patti LaBelle — also known as the “Godmother of Soul” — gave a spirited rendition of “Oh, People” and kicked off her shoes in the process.
Brittney Spencer’s Angelic Voice
Country star Brittney Spencer donned an all-black ensemble as she sung her heart out.
Roy Wood Jr. Honors Our Progress
Host Roy Wood Jr. told the crowd, “It’s important to know how we got all the way from enslavement to the first Black woman vice president and the first Black woman on the Supreme Court” in reference to the appointment of Ketanji Brown Jackson.
An Excited Audience
Nearly 1,700 people were in attendance for this year’s White House Juneteenth celebration, which recognized the Black struggle throughout American history.
Anthony Hamilton Takes Us To Church
Singer/songwriter Anthony Hamilton gave soothing renditions of a few songs from his classic discography.
Our Incomparable Aunties
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) and Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) were in attendance for the White House’s second annual Juneteenth celebration.
Charlie Wilson’s Call And Response
Charlie Wilson ended his unforgettable performance by chanting along with the audience. “Our ancestors are smiling down on us celebrating something that would have seemed unfathomable.”
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