Biden Urges Continued Fight for Equality Despite Speech Gaffe at LGBTQ+ Conference
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former President Joe Biden delivered an impassioned speech on Friday at the International LGBTQ+ Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C., urging elected officials, advocates, and community leaders to persist in the fight for equality. During his remarks, Biden made a notable verbal slip, referring to the nation as the “United States of Amerigotit,” a phrase that quickly drew attention but did not overshadow his core message.
Speaking to a crowd gathered to discuss the future of LGBTQ+ rights, Biden emphasized the importance of resilience and unity in the face of ongoing challenges. “We just have to get up. As long as we keep the faith … and remember who the hell we are. We’re the United States of Amerigotit, that’s who we are! We’re the U.S.!” he said, before continuing to call for renewed vigor in protecting civil liberties.
The former president’s speech highlighted concerns over recent political developments and policies that he argued threaten the progress made in recent years. Biden specifically criticized the administration of President Donald Trump, accusing him and his supporters of attempting to “distort and derail our fight for equality” and to “further divide the country.” He described these efforts as attempts to portray the movement for equality as “something scary, something sinister,” but reaffirmed that the fight is fundamentally about ensuring every American is treated with “basic decency, dignity, and respect.”
Biden’s remarks come amid ongoing national debates over LGBTQ+ rights and constitutional protections. His call to “fight back” resonated with many attendees who have witnessed recent rollbacks in protections and increased political polarization. “All of us are dismayed by the present state of the union,” Biden said. “This is no time to give up. It’s time to get up. Get up and fight back. Get up. Continue to fight. And what’s the fight all about? … it’s about protecting the Constitution. It’s about protecting the Constitution.”
During the event, Biden was honored with the Chris Abele Impact Award, named after a prominent LGBTQ+ Victory Action board member. The award recognized Biden’s role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights during his administration, including efforts to expand protections and promote inclusivity.
The International LGBTQ+ Leaders Conference serves as a platform for discussing strategies to advance equality and address challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities nationwide. Biden’s participation underscored the ongoing political and social significance of these efforts.
For more information on federal initiatives related to civil rights and equality, visit the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. Details on the protection of constitutional rights can be found through the National Archives’ Constitution resources. The Human Rights Campaign offers extensive advocacy and educational materials on LGBTQ+ rights. Additionally, the White House Briefing Room provides official statements and updates from the Biden administration.
Despite the momentary gaffe, Biden’s speech reinforced his commitment to equality and constitutional protections, rallying leaders to continue their work toward a more inclusive America.
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