In a heartwarming speech at the 2025 International Women of Courage Awards, Melania Trump spoke out against child trafficking and encouraged the State Department to end this horrible crime. During her appearance, the first lady also handed out awards to women who had dedicated their lives to ending human trafficking, which she described as “unimaginable.”
For context, the International Women of Courage Awards are hosted by the U.S. State Department annually and honor women who have demonstrated exceptional courage worldwide. The event typically features speeches from high-profile political figures such as the First Lady or the Secretary of State.
Such was shown when Melania introduced one of the award recipients in her address on April 1, 2025. She said, “In fact, Georgiana usually shows up unannounced and discovers the unimaginable, helpless adults and children bound, sedated, starving, and in extreme cases, dying. Thanks to Georgiana’s brave work, dozens of offenders have been charged with human trafficking, exploitation, and even organized crime.”
Continuing her speech, she declared, “We are honored to join an exceptional assembly of brave women who have shown their love and refused to let fear or hardship define them. Their collective achievements and dedication move us all. Let us also take a moment to acknowledge those who persist in their struggles.”
Building on her previous remarks, the elegant first lady offered insight into what motivated these brave women. She explained, “For each of them, love serves as a powerful catalyst, instilling in profound sense of purpose in their endeavors, to the women who are driven to speak out for justice, even thought their voices are trembling, to the women who are motivated to rise up for their community when others remain indifferent, to the women who feel compelled to heal wounds caused by hatred and cherish peace, the 2025 International Women of Courage Award recipients came from diverse backgrounds and regions, yet love transcends boundaries and territories.”
Speaking more emotionally, Mrs. Trump expounded on the power of love. She stated, “It is a universal language. Their courage propels us forward as a humanity by advocating to end violence against women and girls, promoting democratic governance, defending human rights, championing education, and fighting injustice. Through their efforts, they instigate progress for all of humanity.”
Winding down her remarks, Melania explained the powerful example these women have set. The first lady said, “These extraordinary women eliminate the transformative power of love in shaping our world. Their journeys remind us that true courage is born from a deep commitment to others, showing that love fuels the call for justice.”
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Concluding her remarks, the first lady congratulated the assembled women. She stated, “Through their brave actions, they inspire us to embrace our own potential for change, teaching us that while courage drives us forward. It is love that lays the groundwork for lasting impact. Let their stories motivate us to take courageous steps, knowing that each act of love can spark a ripple of transformation. Thank you, and thank you for being here today.”
Featured image from embedded video