President Joe Biden made a rare public appearance Thursday night at the National Bar Association’s 100th anniversary gala, held at the Hyatt in Chicago. The 82-year-old president, who recently revealed he is battling an advanced form of prostate cancer, appeared frail and needed help getting to his seat.
During his address to a room full of Black lawyers, judges, and political leaders, Biden gave a passionate yet at times unsteady speech. He criticized the Trump administration and spoke about the challenges facing marginalized communities in today’s political climate.
BREAKING: Former President Joe Biden walks onto the stage and gets LOST at the National Bar Association Gala.
— The Patriot Oasis™ (@ThePatriotOasis) August 1, 2025
He is NOT doing okay… pic.twitter.com/abHSCh0Jwu
Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, and other prominent Black lawmakers were in the audience.
At one moment, Biden raised his voice and declared, “Every person is created equal and deserves respect throughout their entire life!”
He warned that civil rights progress is under serious threat, comparing current struggles to those of the 1960s. “We haven’t seen tensions like this in decades,” Biden said. “Vulnerable communities are once again under attack.”
Biden also condemned what he described as efforts by the current administration to undo progress made under his leadership. “There’s a real attempt to wipe away our history, our values, our commitment to fairness and justice. This isn’t exaggeration—it’s the truth.”
His appearance sparked concern among some viewers, but also drew support from allies who praised his continued fight for civil rights and justice, even amid serious health challenges.
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