President Trump vowed on Tuesday to address prejudice against the African-American and Jewish communities, denouncing anti-Semitism on the heels of a spike in attacks and threats against Jewish centers.
After touring the National Museum of African-American History earlier Tuesday, Trump said the exhibits had served as “a very sad reminder of the work that still must be done to root out prejudice and hate and evil.
“This tour was a meaningful reminder of why we have to fight bigotry, intolerance and hatred in all of its very ugly forms,” Trump said.
“I’m honored to be the second sitting president to visit this great museum,” he added, noting that former President Obama attended the opening of the museum. “I pledge to do everything I can to continue that promise of freedom for African-Americans and for every American.”
Ben Carson, Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development, toured the African-American history museum with Trump on Tuesday, as did Republican South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott.
“We’re very, very proud of him,” Trump said of Carson. “Ben’s going to work with me very, very closely.”
Alveda King, niece of Martin Luther King Jr., accompanied Trump to the museum. She openly supported the president during his campaign.
“I also want to profoundly thank Alveda King for being here,” Trump said during his prepared statement, which he delivered at the museum after his tour.
