Trump postpones scheduled meeting in Tulsa on commemoration day of end of slavery

President Donald Trump during a discussion with African American leaders in the White House on June 10, 2020. SAUL LOEB / AFP

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Donald Trump decides to delay the resumption of his meetings by one day after harsh criticism related to his choice of date and place. He was to be in Tulsa on June 19, the date of commemoration of the abolition of slavery. In a rather rare gesture, he decided to postpone his gathering.

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With our correspondent in New York, Loubna Anaki

If there is one thing that Donald Trump is known for, it is that of loving provocation and not giving in to criticism and pressure. Hence the surprise here when the American president announced his decision on Twitter.

We had scheduled our rally in Tulsa for June 19,  " writes Donald Trump, "  Unfortunately, this coincides with the celebration of Juneteenth. Many of my African American friends and supporters have asked me to change out of respect for this date and what it represents,  ”said the president.

June 19 corresponds to the celebration of the abolition of slavery in the United States. Given the current protests against racism and the much-criticized management of Donald Trump, the choice to resume his campaign that day was seen as a provocation. Especially since the city of Tulsa was the scene of one of the most violent massacres of African-Americans in 1921.

This change in program is all the more surprising since a few hours before, Donald Trump assured on Fox News that the choice of date and place was not made on purpose. "  You have to see my meeting as a celebration,  " he said.

The drop in popularity in recent weeks and the many critics may have convinced the president to concede a gesture.

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