White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the first Black and openly LGBTQ+ American to hold the job, bids tearful farewell at the final press briefing of the Biden administration

In a heartfelt farewell, Karine Jean-Pierre, the first Black and openly LGBTQ+ American to serve as White House press secretary, walked out of the James Brady Press Briefing Room with her name permanently inscribed in White House history.

Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, fought back tears as she said goodbye during the Biden-Harris administration's last press briefing.

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Why Was Jean-Pierre's Tenure Significant?

President Joe Biden's final press conference before his departure on January 20 was announced by Jean-Pierre on Wednesday. She received her 306th White House briefing in the four years of the administration, out of a total of 537. In his reflection on the Biden-Harris White House's first day in office, Jean-Pierre pointed out that the administration stressed the value of a free press during its first briefing on Inauguration Day.

Donald Trump verbally attacked reporters while he was president, calling them enemies of the American people and fake news. He even threatened to censor a number of other reporters and took away CNN reporter Jim Acosta's hard-pass credentials to enter the White House press room.

"President Joe Biden wanted to emphasize the value of the press in our democracy and the significance of daily press briefings," Jean-Pierre said.

The president and all of us in this administration recognize the importance of a free press as a pillar of our country and the value of your work in challenging the establishment and holding those in positions of authority responsible.

With her name permanently inscribed in White House history, 50-year-old Jean-Pierre departed the James Brady Press Briefing Room. She became the first Black American to hold the position of White House press secretary after being promoted to it. She is the first immigrant to be openly LGBTQ+ and the first Black person to do so.

Acknowledging the historical nature of her job, she expressed her sincere hope that her presence at the podium would serve as an inspiration to many young girls who look up to her. She hoped that they could know that they could achieve great things if they put their heart and mind into it, no matter how many barriers they may need to overcome.

Acknowledging the significance of the last briefing falling on the birthday of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Jean-Pierre noted that progress is not always a straight line, but we all must do our part to bend it towards justice and pay it forward.

FAQs

Why is Karine Jean-Pierre's role historical?
She was the first Black, openly LGBTQ+, and immigrant person to serve as White House press secretary, inspiring many with her groundbreaking accomplishments.

What points did Jean-Pierre emphasize in her farewell?
She emphasized the importance of a free press, expressed her gratitude to the Biden administration, and hoped to inspire young girls to overcome obstacles and pursue their goals.