Former First Lady Melania Trump complained about the U.S. immigration while addressing new American citizens in a rare public appearance commemorating the Bill of Rights Day.
She appeared at Friday's ceremony hosted by the National Archives and Records Administration where 25 immigrants from 25 nations were sworn in as new U.S. citizens.
In her address, Melania, a naturalized citizen from Slovenia, told the audience that she "immediately" knew she wanted the U.S. to become her permanent home when she first arrived in New York City in 1996 to pursue her modeling career, but it was difficult to understand the complexities of the immigration process. She recalled being absolved in a "labyrinth" of paperwork and said it was not until she obtained counsel that she was ultimately able to have her case "streamlined...over the finish line."
"My personal experience of traversing the challenges of the immigration process opened my eyes to the harsh realities people face, including you, who try to become U.S. citizens," she said. "Then, of course, there are nuances of understanding the United States immigration laws and the complex legal language contained therein. I was very devoted, but I certainly was not an attorney."
"My personal experience of traversing the challenges of the immigration process opened my eyes to the harsh realities people face, including you, who try to become U.S. citizens," she said. "Then, of course, there are nuances of understanding the United States immigration laws and the complex legal language contained therein. I was very devoted, but I certainly was not an attorney."
Melania was sworn in as a U.S. citizen shortly after the birth of her son Barron, who she shares with Donald, in 2006. When her husband became president in 2017, she became the second naturalized woman, behind Louisa Adams, to become first lady.
"While challenges were numerous, the rewards were well worth the effort. I applaud you for every step you took, every obstacle you overcome, and every sacrifice you made," she said. "It is an honor to stand with you in these hallowed halls today in the presence of the Declaration of Independence."
Melania's appearance was a rare public sighting for the wife of former President Donald Trump, who withdrew from public life after her husband left office in January 2021. Amid Donald's vigorous 2024 campaign schedule and various legal battles, Melania has not been seen on the campaign trail nor with her husband in court.
Her remarks at the National Archives come almost two years after the archives asked the Justice Department to investigate her husband's handling of White House documents. Donald was ultimately indicted on 40 federal charges related to the case. He has denied any wrongdoing in the case.
Reports that the National Archives would give Special Counsel Smith more than a dozen records showing that Trump and his top advisers knew about the document declassification process emerged on the same day that Archivist of the United States Colleen Shogan began leading the agency.
Melania did not seem to hold any grudge against Shogan, who was also in attendance on Friday, thanking the archivist at the top of her speech for introducing her and for her "kind invitation to celebrate this incredible moment."
On Friday, she told the group of newly sworn-in U.S. citizens that "becoming an American citizen comes with responsibility," which includes "actively participating in the democratic process and guarding our freedom."
"It is a life-altering experience that takes time, determination, and sometimes even tremendous strength," the former first lady said. "You are now a part of a nation with a rich history of progress, innovation, and resilience. Though you come from 25 different countries, your dreams and inspirations intertwine with those who came before you since 1776, and together shape the future of this extraordinary country."
"Be proud of yourself. Stand your ground and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. You are American," she added. "Be a beacon of inspiration for your children and those who follow in your footsteps. May your journey continue to be filled with endless possibilities and may your contributions enrich the fabrics of this great nation."
Update 12/15/23, 3:10 p.m. ET: The headline has been updated to reflect Melania Trump's criticism of the complicated nature of the U.S. immigration system.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Katherine Fung is a Newsweek reporter based in New York City. Her focus is reporting on U.S. and world politics. ... Read more
