Deep divisions and apprehension on the campus of Morehouse College have presented President Joe Biden with a delicate balancing act as he prepares to deliver the commencement address at the historically Black, all-male college. The White House has been working to quell concerns within the Morehouse community, as enhanced security measures and potential pro-Palestinian protests loom over the event.

The upcoming address at Morehouse College is seen as an opportunity for President Biden to reconnect with young Black men, a group that has shown a declining support for him in recent polls. However, there are mixed reactions within the Morehouse community regarding Biden's presence on campus.

Colin Royal, managing editor of the Maroon Tiger student newspaper and a junior at Morehouse, described an overwhelming sense of confusion and disarray among the students. Some view Biden's visit as an opportunity to bring attention to the college, while others are skeptical of the president's motives, accusing him of pandering to Black male voters.

One of the key issues dividing the Morehouse community is Biden's support for Israel's campaign against Hamas, which has caused unrest on college campuses nationwide. Some students are calling for the president to address his stance on Israel in his speech, seeking reassurance and a wrestling with the tension in Gaza.

On the other hand, there are students who have reassured Biden's authenticity and believe that his remarks will be impactful for their lives. Aylon Gipson, a graduating senior and member of the Morehouse College Democrats, met with the Biden administration and expressed confidence that the president has something important to say to the students.

Despite the divisions, Morehouse College President David A. Thomas has emphasized the importance of holding tensions and promoting inclusivity. He hopes that Biden will focus on what the school represents, lay out his vision for a more inclusive economy, and address the Israel-Hamas war.

The college has faced protests and demands from student-led organizations, such as the Atlanta University Center Student Intercommunal Coordinating Committee, which has called for immediate divestment from Israeli companies and severing ties with Israel in solidarity with the Palestinian people.

In response to the concerns raised by the Morehouse community, the White House has dispatched White House Director of the Office of Public Engagement Steve Benjamin to engage with students and faculty. During a two-hour meeting, Benjamin listened to the concerns and aspirations of the Morehouse community, with attendees expressing a desire for a focus on students' accomplishments rather than a campaign-style speech.

As Sunday's commencement event approaches, the White House is preparing for the possibility of protests, and the college has assured that silent non-disruptive protests will be allowed. However, President Thomas has emphasized that any significant disruptions hindering attendees' ability to participate and enjoy the ceremony will result in immediate shutdown.

President Biden's commencement address at Morehouse College carries significance as a potential litmus test for his support among young voters of color in the upcoming fall elections. The president and his team have been consulting with Morehouse students, faculty, and alumni, including Dr. Eddie Glaude, a Morehouse alumnus and Princeton professor of African American Studies, to craft a speech that resonates with the community.

This event marks President Biden's second visit to Morehouse College, with the previous one focused on voting rights. The White House is hopeful that the address will provide an opportunity for the president to connect with young Black men and address their concerns, further cementing his commitment to inclusivity and progress.

As the commencement day approaches, all eyes are on President Biden's speech, which will play a crucial role in determining the impact he has on the young voters of color and addressing the divisions that exist within the Morehouse community.