White House Briefing: Emphasizing Environmental Justice, Space Exploration, and Support for Black Businesses
At the White House press briefing held today, Vice President Kamala Harris announced a significant investment plan geared towards bolstering local environmental justice projects across the nation. A staggering $600 million will be funneled through 11 established community organizations to confront the difficulties of the federal grant-making process. The ultimate aim is to equip all communities with the necessary resources to champion environmental justice, thereby ensuring clean air, water, and healthier living conditions for all citizens.
Emphasizing International Partnerships in Space Exploration
Simultaneously, Vice President Mike Pence addressed the National Space Council at the White House. In his speech, Pence accentuated the crucial role of international partnerships in space exploration, underscoring the importance of confronting the climate crisis, establishing new international rules, norms, and advancing human space exploration. He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to preserving and strengthening rules governing the peaceful and responsible use of space, and the need for a regulatory framework for commercial space activities. Pence also brought up the Artemis program, an ambitious initiative aiming to return astronauts to the lunar surface and foster international collaboration in space exploration.
Addressing Current Events
On the other hand, President Biden, during a press briefing, chose to remain non-committal on a court case involving former President Trump and the Colorado ballot. He emphasized that certain actions are self-evident, asserting that Trump supported an insurrection. The President also alluded to a potential hostage deal unfolding in the Middle East and a prisoner exchange with Venezuela, expressing concern over the escalating death toll in Gaza.
Boosting Black-Owned Businesses
President Biden is due to visit Milwaukee to spotlight the surge in Black small businesses and unveil new investments in Wisconsin. His stopover at Hero Plumbing, a Black-owned small business, will serve to underscore this initiative. As part of the briefing, the White House also shared updates on humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza and negotiations for a temporary ceasefire in exchange for hostages. Discussions are currently underway at the United Nations for a resolution on Gaza amid rising concerns about civilian casualties in the conflict.