SAGINAW, MICH – President Joe Biden visited Michigan last week to strengthen his backing among Black voters and counter the rising opposition caused by the White House’s unwavering support for Israel among Muslims in the pivotal swing state.
However, certain African American leaders now express feelings of alienation, citing Biden’s lack of engagement with more prominent members of the Black community during his visit to Saginaw, a city northwest of Detroit that serves as Michigan’s primary political barometer and boasts a 46% Black population.
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Pastor Hurley Coleman Jr wrote on Facebook:
I thought I would share this today because I am so proud of Dr. Pamela Pugh and her courageous stand in this season. I agree with her on so many points and applaud her efforts to address them while looking forward. There are many in our community who were excited to be in the company of the POTUS, and well they should have been. They had been invited to the event and may never have that chance again. There were others who were invited and chose not to go, whatever their reason it was their choice. There are many who are commenting who were in neither one of those choice moments. In this forum, anyone can have an opinion. In the coming days, everyone will have choices. I am sure that this will not be the last time in this campaign season that choices will be presented. I am anxious to see how many will work together to make sure that the next political effort truly offers what they think is important. If we follow the lead of Dr. Pamela Pugh, there is a good chance that we can present a strong unified community effort to address our community needs. I could spend a lot of time and effort countering some of the critics, but you have the privilege of clicking their name and looking at their page to see who they are and what they really believe. Keep standing strong Dr. Pamela Pugh.
State School board member Pamela Pugh also took to Facebook to voice her frustration:
Reflecting on President Joe Biden’s Saginaw visit, it’s clear a big chance to unite Democrats was missed. Many felt left out, and some protested by not going. This reminds us of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s call for unity and making grievances a force for change.
Now more than ever, we need to be inclusive and open to criticism, not just dismiss it as divisive. The Democratic Party must aim for true solidarity, beyond just trying to look good. This is crucial for real unity and addressing concerns properly, which helps earn the support of those who expect better.King’s lessons show us the importance of coming together, especially in tough times, to face global atrocities and work towards a united, progressive future.This is a systemic issue in the party that needs quick attention. Ignoring or sidelining parts of the base, while expecting their votes, looks like deliberate exclusion.
To avoid blaming losses on a disenchanted base, the party needs to genuinely engage and respect its members, showing that their involvement and votes are truly valued.
