Many Have Preached Politics From This Pulpit, but Biden Is the First President

Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C., will forever be associated with a former President because of his memorable eulogy for the victims of a racist massacre in its fellowship hall in June 2015. But it is the current President who will become the first sitting president to speak at the church. The President will deliver a campaign address there about threats to American democracy, including those posed by political and hate-fueled violence. The church has a long history of political significance and has served as a symbol of Black resistance and resilience. The President’s choice to speak at the church intends to show common cause with Black voters.