In an unexpected mix-up, President Joe Biden referred to Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman who is still very much alive, in the past tense, sparking confusion during a formal speech in Arizona.

Biden, in Arizona to deliver an historic apology to Native Americans, mistakenly referenced Giffords as if she had passed away, prompting confusion and embarrassment, as Mediaite reports.

On Friday in Arizona, Biden stood before members of the Native American community and others to deliver what he described as a long-overdue apology for the historical atrocities committed in boarding schools for Native American children.

This event marked a rare presidential gesture, acknowledging the harsh treatment that spanned over 150 years until the 1960s.

The schools were notorious for their brutal policies that included forcible relocation of children, resulting in numerous fatalities and widespread abuse among survivors.

Biden's address was aimed at healing and acknowledging the dark chapters in American history regarding its indigenous peoples.

Introduced by Gov. Stephen Lewis of the Gila River Indian Community, Biden's speech was set against the backdrop of these somber historical acknowledgments. The president expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the community and recognition of their suffering.

Biden's Historical Apology and Unexpected Remark

During his address, President Biden thanked various individuals for their roles in fostering relations and support between the government and the Native American tribes.

Among them was Democrat Sen. Mark Kelly, who Biden noted had strong ties with the Gila River Indian Community, also mentioning Kelly's wife, former congresswoman Gabby Giffords, in a manner that suggested she was no longer living.

Giffords, known for her resilience after surviving a severe injury sustained in a 2011 shooting in Tucson, is actively involved in various public initiatives, particularly advocating for gun control. Her abrupt mention in the past tense by the president resulted in immediate whispers and murmurs among the attendees.

This was not Biden's first verbal misstep. In 2010, Biden, then vice president, mistakenly referred to the mother of Ireland’s prime minister as deceased, using the phrase "God bless her soul."

Past Gaffes Shadow President's Public Speeches

These slips have characterized a part of Biden’s long career in public service, which includes numerous speeches and public engagements in which similar issues have occurred. Biden's latest gaffe took on an overshadowing tone during a ceremony that was intended to be a profound apology and acknowledgment of past wrongs against Native Americans.

The event itself was described as one of the most consequential acts of Biden's presidency, highlighting its importance both in terms of domestic policy and historical rectification. "This, to me, is one of the most consequential things I’ve ever had the opportunity to do in my career as President of the United States," Biden emphasized during his speech.

The apology issued by Biden, recognized as the first of its kind from a sitting U.S. president, represents a pivotal moment in the nation’s attempt to reconcile with its past treatment of Native Americans.

Giffords’ Public Life and Advocacy Continues

Despite the circumstances at the speech, Gabby Giffords continues to be a prominent figure in American public life. Her efforts, particularly in the area of gun control and violence prevention, have made significant impacts across the nation. Often accompanied by her husband, Sen. Mark Kelly, Giffords' presence in public discourse remains strong.

Biden's reference to Giffords in past tense was quickly noted as a mistake, and clarification was sought by various media outlets and attendees.

The situation highlighted the sometimes-fragile nature of public speaking, particularly when it comes to individuals of Biden's advanced age.

Giffords herself has not publicly commented on the incident, continuing her advocacy work undeterred by the gaffe. Her example is a reminder of the strength and perseverance that can emerge even from profoundly challenging circumstances.