Former First Lady Melania Trump made a rare public appearance as a speaker at a naturalization ceremony held at the National Archives in Washington D.C.

The event welcomed new U.S. citizens, and Melania Trump, dressed in a black pantsuit, shared her personal journey of becoming an American citizen during her seven-minute speech.

🚨JUST IN: Melania Trump speaks to new American citizens about the "responsibility" of citizenship and the importance of "guarding our freedom” at a naturalization ceremony at the National Archive. pic.twitter.com/o6pjWSEWUF

— I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 (@ImMeme0) December 15, 2023

Reflecting on citizenship

Reflecting on the challenges of the immigration process, she characterized it as an "arduous" journey. Melania Trump acknowledged the harsh realities faced by individuals striving to become U.S. citizens, emphasizing the complexities of understanding immigration laws and legal nuances.

Recounting her own experience, she admitted to seeking legal assistance to navigate the intricate process efficiently.

"Patience and perseverance became my constant companions as I navigated through this intricate web, which I'm sure you can all relate to," she stated, underscoring the shared struggles of those in pursuit of citizenship.

Citizenship an honor

Melania Trump emphasized that obtaining American citizenship is an honor accompanied by significant responsibility.

She urged new citizens to actively engage in the democratic process and protect freedom, describing the experience as transformative, requiring time, determination, and considerable strength.

Born as Melania Knauss in Slovenia, Melania Trump initially arrived in the U.S. in 1996 as a working model with a worker visa.

She is the only First Lady in U.S. history who is a naturalized citizen.

Melania and Donald Trump

Melania met Donald Trump in 1998, leading to their engagement in 2004 and subsequent marriage the following year.

Their wedding, attended by notable figures such as Shaquille O’Neal, Bill and Hillary Clinton, marked Melania Trump's transition from a successful modeling career to becoming the First Lady of the United States.

Melania's presence at the National Archives marked a departure from her relatively private post-White House life. Her address not only shared personal insights into her immigration process but also celebrated the diversity and strength that immigrants bring to the United States.

Melania Trump's rare public appearance served as a touching moment, offering a glimpse into her personal story and resonating with the collective accounts of those who pursue the American dream rather than the border crisis situation that has taken place under President Joe Biden during his term in office.