Yesterday, the First Lady spoke out about her life growing up under communist rule.
In a rousing speech in celebration of International Women’s Day, Melania Trump explained how her immigrant past inspired her fight for gender equality.
Standing in front of members of the United Nations Women for Peace Association and Girl Scouts of America in the White House’s State Dining Room, Melania said: “As an immigrant myself, having grown up in a communist society, I know all too well the value and importance of freedom and equal opportunity - ideals which this great nation was founded and has continued to strive towards throughout its history."
The First Lady then went on to discuss the harrowing circumstances facing women across the globe in today’s era:
"There remains far more brutal and terrifying incarnations of actual gender persecution which we must face together, such as forced enslavement, sexual abuse and absolute repression of far too many women and girls around the globe. We must remember these women in our daily prayers and use our combined resources to help free them from such unthinkable and inhumane circumstances."
The speech marked a rare solo appearance from the First Lady and could hint at the initiatives Melania has planned for the future. Following her debut solo outing at a local children's hospital wing, Melania has undoubtedly begun to find her feet.
"I continue to firmly believe that education is the most powerful way to promote and ensure women's rights. Together we will do this not only by striving for gender parity at all levels of education, but also by showing all children, and especially boys, that it is through empathy, respect and kindness that we achieve our collective potential," she said.
Her speech is of course open to criticism as her husband Donald Trump continues to impose strict travel regulations. This is despite the fact that Melania allegedly worked illegally as a model in the nineties under a tourist visa.
A move which would see her deported under Trump's newly imposed rules which require immigration officials 'to prioritise the removal of any foreign national who has engaged in fraud or willful misrepresentation in connection with any official matter or application before a government agency'.
READ MORE: Melania Trump Makes Debut Solo Outing As First Lady