Former U.S. President Joe Biden called on elected officials, leaders and advocates to "continue the fight" for equality during a speech at the 2025 International LGBTQ+ Leaders Conference.

"All of us are dismayed by the present state of the Union," said Biden. "This is no time to give up. It's time to get up. Get up and fight back," said Biden.

Biden was awarded the Chris Abele Impact Award during the event on Friday for his role advancing LGBTQ+ rights during his administration.

The event was hosted by the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute in Washington, D.C.