Biden, not on program, wows crowd at Georgetown interfaith peace forum

Vice President Joe Biden speaks during a Dec. 16 forum, billed as "Interfaith Gathering for Solidarity, Understanding and Peace," at Georgetown University in Washington. (CNS photo/Georgetown University)

By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service
12.17.2015 12:01 PM ET

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Even though he wasn't on the program, Vice President Joe Biden stole the show at a Georgetown University program promoting peace in wake of terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, California.

Laila Brothers, a Georgetown freshman, had just given a moving reflection about being Muslim and her hijab-wearing mother feeling as if she had "a target on her back" in the month following the terror attacks.

Brothers talked about how Republican presidential aspirant Donald Trump had suggested that Muslims wear a badge to identify them to others. She added how she wanted to spare her mother the stress that comes with wearing the hijab. Her mother's response: "If they're talking about Muslims wearing a badge, I already have a badge. My hijab is my badge."

While Brothers was receiving applause after her remarks, Biden walked up onto the stage and greeted some of the other participants at the Dec. 16 forum, billed as "Interfaith Gathering for Solidarity, Understanding and Peace," but gave Brothers a warm embrace.

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