Billy Porter has sparked controversy after greeting President Joe Biden with a kiss on the hand during the White House’s early Juneteenth holiday celebration and concert. The event, hosted by President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday, featured performances from iconic artists such as Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, and Doug E. Fresh.

Seated in the front row beside Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, the Emmy, Tony, and Grammy winner leaned across Harris and Emhoff to kiss Biden’s hand. The gesture has drawn mixed reactions on social media, with some criticizing Porter for the display, citing its stark contrast to the legacy of civil rights activist and writer James Baldwin, whom Porter is set to portray in an upcoming biopic.

The forthcoming film will see Porter co-write, co-produce, and star as Baldwin, a figure renowned for his powerful critiques of racism, white supremacy, and inequality in the United States. Baldwin, through works like Notes of a Native Son, repeatedly called for America to reckon with its history of slavery and systemic injustice. His sharp and unflinching commentary is often referenced in conversations about racial equity and civil rights.

A 1963 letter from Baldwin to his nephew, which reflected on the centennial of the Emancipation Proclamation, included the poignant observation: “The country is celebrating one hundred years of freedom one hundred years too soon.” His advocacy extended globally, with Baldwin drawing parallels between racial injustice in America and the struggles of oppressed peoples worldwide, including Palestinians.

Porter’s interaction with Biden has reignited debates about how Baldwin’s legacy is reflected in today’s cultural icons. One viral tweet highlighted the perceived dissonance, stating, “James Baldwin challenged white supremacy at every turn. Billy Porter kneels and kisses it at every turn. They are not the same!”

The Juneteenth celebration itself marked a significant cultural milestone. Signed into law by President Biden in 2021, Juneteenth became a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans—specifically the moment in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom, two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Despite the backlash, Porter appeared to fully embrace the celebratory spirit of the event. Throughout the evening, he danced alongside President Biden and Vice President Harris, swaying to the music that resonated across the White House’s South Lawn.

The incident, while momentary, has amplified discussions about the intersection of activism, art, and public behavior, especially in relation to Baldwin’s enduring influence on the fight for racial justice.