The White House Correspondents’ Association dinner is an annual event that brings together the power of Washington and the press in a night of camaraderie and networking. This tradition, with over a century of history, honors the First Amendment and the current president.
In 2021, President Joe Biden delivered a humorous speech at the gala held at the Hilton hotel, avoiding mention of conflicts like the war in Gaza or support for Benjamin Netanyahu. Outside the hotel, hundreds of protesters voiced their opposition to the war in Gaza and Washington’s support for Israel. They were met by nearly three thousand guests dressed in formal attire, who entered the hotel amidst the protests.
Inside, journalists’ vests were displayed in honor of fallen reporters, including those who died in the recent conflicts in Gaza. President Biden made light of his age and took jabs at his Republican opponent, Donald Trump, in his speech. He joked about the upcoming elections and the legal troubles facing Trump. The evening also included a response from comedian Colin Jost, who brought humor to the event with his jokes about Biden and current events.
Guests at the gala included celebrities like Scarlett Johansson and politicians like Governors and Secretaries of State. The event is often referred to as “the Oscars of Washington,” where