Jill Biden spoke publicly on Thursday about the outcry that followed a Wall Street Journal column that called for the future First Lady who will be her “Dr.” Title.
Jill Biden was interviewed by her host and President-elect Joe Biden about the couple’s first interview together on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.” the essayist’s WSJ column Joseph Epstein, who called for the title to be removed “for the time being”.
“Madame First Lady – Mrs. Biden – Jill – Kiddo: A piece of advice on a small, but not unimportant matter in my opinion,” Epstein began the column. “Any chance you get the ‘Dr.’ before your name? “
Biden said she didn’t see the column coming, which many have derided as sexist. “That was such a surprise,” she said.
“It really was the tone,” said Jill Biden. “He called me ‘child’.” “
The original outcry:The Wall Street Journal doubles in the column, suggesting that Jill Biden be ‘Dr.’ title
Jill Biden received her PhD in Education from the University of Delaware in 2007 and her Masters degrees from West Chester University and Villanova University.
“One of the things I’m particularly proud of is my PhD,” said Jill Biden. “I worked so hard for it.”
Colbert read part of her memoir, “Where the Light Comes In: Starting a Family, Discovering Myself,” in which Jill Biden wrote, “The role I’ve always felt most comfortable in is Dr. Biden.”
Joe Biden pointed out in the interview that he proudly presented his wife with her doctorate on stage at the University of Delaware during the graduation ceremony.
Jill Biden said she was touched by the voices that spoke for her after the column.
“Look at all of the people who have supported me. I’m so grateful. I was just blown away by how lovely the people were,” she said.
Those votes included former first lady Michelle Obama and Doug Emhoff, husband of elected Vice President Kamala Harris.
“She will be a great role model, not just for young girls, but for all of us. She wears her accomplishments with grace, good humor and yes, pride,” Obama signed an Instagram photo of herself smiling and clapping at Biden . “I am thrilled that the world will see what I have come to know – a brilliant woman who has excelled in her job and in her daily life and always tries to uplift others rather than tear them apart.”
Emhoff continued Twitter that Jill Biden “graduated from hard work and pure stuff. She is an inspiration to me, her students, and Americans in this country. This story would never have been written about a man.”
Northwestern and his English Department, where Epstein was visiting professor for 30 years, denounced his views and stated that they “strongly support academic freedom and expression,” but disagree that only those with an MD hold the title “Doctor” should wear. ”
“General introvert. Pop culture specialist. Hardcore student. Creator. Bacon enthusiast.”
