On September 23, President Joe Biden surprised singer Elton John with a National Humanities Medal. Biden recognized the longtime AIDS activist for his musical talent, his advocacy and his courage in finding “a purpose to defy convention, break down stigma and advance the simple truth that everyone deserves to be treated with respect”.
But a screenshot of a Tweeter of Lavern Spicer, who unsuccessfully sought a seat in Florida in the US House of Representatives, has been circulating on social media these days, giving the impression that the president has in fact disparaged the British entertainer.
“Joe Biden blamed Elton John for AIDS and everyone just gave him a free pass,” the tweet read.
An Instagram post containing the tweet also included a clip from the White House event at which Biden presented John with the medal.
“By the way,” Biden said, referring to the $6 billion the United States is contributing to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, “it’s all his fault we’re spending $6 billion of the money taxpayers this month to help AIDS – to fight HIV/AIDS.”
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Biden’s remarks in context make it clear that he was not blaming John for AIDS, a disease caused by HIV, an infection that attacks the body’s immune system. The video shows John applauding Biden’s “it’s all his fault” comment, and the applause and cheers from the audience can also be heard.
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“We are joined by so many people that … he is free to be himself, to be treated with the dignity and respect he deserves,” Biden said. said earlier in the evening. “Families and advocates in the fight against HIV/AIDS…a fight he waged with pure will and a fight for those lives lost and those we can save.”
Just before Biden made the comment featured in the Instagram post, John said he would treasure his medal and that it would make him work harder “to make sure this disease goes away.”
“Your kindness – America’s kindness to me as a musician is second to none,” John said. “But in the war against AIDS and HIV, it’s even bigger. I can never thank you enough.
Biden seemed to credit John for his activism over the years. He did not blame him for the spread of AIDS. We rate this claim as false.
