In a poignant ceremony today, First Lady Melania Trump took center stage at the White House to unveil a commemorative stamp by the United States Postal Service, celebrating the life and legacy of the esteemed First Lady Barbara Bush. Surrounded by the Bush family, friends, former staff members, and notable guests, Mrs. Trump offered remarks that underscored Barbara Bush’s lasting influence on American society, particularly her unwavering commitment to family, literacy, and public service.
“Barbara’s steadfast conviction, dignity, and profound loyalty to her loved ones have etched themselves into our hearts and history,” stated First Lady Melania Trump. “Today’s unveiling of this stamp not only honors Barbara Bush’s contributions as First Lady but also serves as a reminder of her enduring impact on our country. May this tribute encourage us all to act with compassion, demonstrate strength, and uphold the values that guide us toward a life of purpose.”
Joining Mrs. Trump were Doro Bush Koch, Barbara Bush’s daughter; Alice Yates, CEO of the George & Barbara Bush Foundation; and Judy de Torok, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at the U.S. Postal Service. Their collective voices reinforced Mrs. Bush’s legacy as a trailblazer, whose dedication to literacy and family significantly shaped the role of First Lady and left an indelible mark on American culture.
The Office of First Lady Melania Trump expressed heartfelt gratitude to the various organizations and individuals who facilitated this tribute, particularly the White House Historical Association for providing the official portrait of Barbara Bush featured on the commemorative stamp.
Full remarks of First Lady Melania Trump as prepared for delivery:
Thank you, Doro, for your kind introduction, and it’s a pleasure to welcome you back to the White House as we celebrate your mother, First Lady Barbara Bush. Her unwavering conviction, dignity, and deep loyalty to her family have left a profound mark on our hearts and history. The values instilled by your mother resonate through her family, friends, and former staff, all of whom continue to honor her legacy today.
I extend my gratitude to Alice Yates, CEO of the George & Barbara Bush Foundation, for joining us today. Together with the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, you are empowering current and future generations to navigate the world with confidence and dignity.
I also want to acknowledge the White House Historical Association and the United States Postal Service, particularly Judy de Torok, for making this event a reality.
Strong American families are the bedrock of a thriving society and serve as the cornerstone for a brighter future. The dynamics that unfold within our homes shape the core values, strengths, and collective wisdom of our nation.
In the intimate setting of our homes, the principles of morality, ambition, and empathy are nurtured, often proving to be more influential than the decisions made in Washington, D.C.
Barbara Bush’s iconic commencement address at Wellesley College in 1990 remains a pivotal moment in the dialogue about women’s roles in society. Her message, which underscored the importance of family and personal integrity, encouraged women to forge their own paths in life.
Mrs. Bush famously stated, “Your success as a family—our success as a society—depends not on what happens in the White House, but on what happens inside your house.” She further inspired her audience by emphasizing the pursuit of personal dreams, declaring, “The winner of the hoop race will be the first to realize her dream. Not society’s dreams, her own personal dream. Who knows—somewhere out in this audience may even be someone who will one day follow in my footsteps and preside over the White House, and I wish him well.”
It has been over 35 years since Barbara Bush boldly called for a female president, showcasing her visionary perspective. As a dedicated mother and one of only two First Ladies whose son ascended to the presidency, she exemplified the intricate balance of ambition and identity that defines us all.
Mrs. Bush’s legacy is characterized by her respect for tradition while simultaneously challenging the status quo. While she is celebrated for championing literacy, her advocacy extended to women’s empowerment, changing the national discourse on AIDS, and supporting gay rights.
I commend Mrs. Bush’s commitment to affirming the essential role of women across all sectors, whether as CEOs or homemakers. We have the capacity to build stronger families while driving innovative businesses, ultimately paving the way for a brighter future.
The unveiling of this commemorative stamp honors Barbara Bush’s invaluable contributions as First Lady and her lasting influence on our nation. May this tribute inspire us all to lead with compassion, act with strength, and uphold the values that guide us toward a meaningful existence.
