Former President Joe Biden addressed attendees at the International LGBTQ+ Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C., on March 15, 2024, calling for renewed efforts in the fight for equality. During his speech, Biden made a notable verbal gaffe, mispronouncing the name of the country as he emphasized the importance of the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights.
Biden’s remarks were punctuated by a moment of levity when he referred to the nation as the “United States of Amerigotit.” Despite this slip, he maintained a serious tone, urging those present to continue standing against policies he criticized from the Trump administration. He stated, “We just have to get up. As long as we keep the faith… we’re the United States of Amerigotit, that’s who we are! We’re the U.S.!”
In his speech, Biden urged elected officials, leaders, and advocates to “get up and fight back,” highlighting the need to protect the Constitution and the rights it guarantees. He expressed concern about the current political climate, stating, “All of us are dismayed by the present state of the union. This is no time to give up.” His message sought to galvanize support for ongoing advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and equality.
Biden directed criticism towards Donald Trump and his supporters, claiming they are attempting to “distort and derail our fight for equality.” He emphasized the importance of ensuring that every American is treated with “basic decency, dignity, and respect.”
At the conference, Biden was honored with the Chris Abele Impact Award for his contributions to advancing LGBTQ+ rights during his presidency. The award, named after a member of the LGBTQ+ Victory Action board, recognizes significant efforts to promote equality and inclusion for LGBTQ+ individuals.
The event served as a platform for leaders in the LGBTQ+ community to come together, share experiences, and strategize on future actions necessary to combat discrimination and promote rights. As Biden concluded his speech, he reiterated the urgency of collective action in the face of adversity, reinforcing the message that the struggle for equality is far from over.
The Associated Press contributed to this report, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community under varying political administrations.