MELANIA Trump has said “violence is never the answer and will never be justified” in a farewell message. The outgoing First Lady has posted a video clip on Twitter as Joe Biden prepares to take office following his presidential inauguration on Wednesday. She added that it had been the “greatest honour” of her life to […]
MELANIA Trump has said “violence is never the answer and will never be justified” in a farewell message.
The outgoing First Lady has posted a video clip on Twitter as Joe Biden prepares to take office following his presidential inauguration on Wednesday.
She added that it had been the “greatest honour” of her life to serve as First Lady, describing her four years serving alongside her husband Donald Trump as “unforgettable”.
In a video tweeted to her 16million followers, Melania said: “Be passionate in every thing you do,”
“But always remember that violence is never the answer and will never be justified.”
Her comments condemning violence come just two weeks after pro-Trump rioters stormed the US Capitol on January 6.
In her goodbye speech, Melania added she had been “inspired” by millions of Americans across the country during her time at the White House and described service members as “heroes”.
“As Donald and I conclude our time in the White House, I think of all the people I have taken home in my heart and their incredible stories,” she said.
“I see the faces of brave young soldiers who have told me with pride in their eyes how much they love serving this country.
“To every service member and to our incredible military families: You are heroes, and you will always be in my thoughts and prayers.”
Melania, 50, also implored Americans to use “common sense” in the ongoing fight against coronavirus.
“As the world continues to confront the Covid-19 pandemic, I thank all of the nurses, doctors, healthcare professionals, manufacturing workers, truck drivers and so many others who are working to save lives,” she said.
“We grieve for the families who have lost a loved one due to the pandemic.
“Every life is precious, and I ask all Americans to use caution and common sense to protect the vulnerable as millions of vaccines are now being delivered.
“In the midst of this hardship, we have seen the best of America shine through.
“Students have made cards and delivered groceries to our senior citizens. Teachers have worked twice as hard to keep our children learning.
“Families have come together to provide meals, supplies, comfort and friendship to those in need.”
The former model and businesswoman also spoke about her Be Best initiative and encouraged more people to join as an ambassador.
“When I came to the White House, I reflected on the responsibility I have always felt as a mother to encourage, give strength, and teach values of kindness,” she said.
“I launched Be Best to ensure that we as Americans are doing everything we can to take care of the next generation.
“In a few short years, I have raised awareness of how to keep children safe online; we have made incredible progress on our nation’s drug epidemic and how it impacts the lives of newborns and families, and we have given a voice to our most vulnerable children in the foster care system.
“Internationally, Be Best has evolved into a platform that encourages world leaders to discuss issues impacting the lives of children and allows them to share solutions.
“It has been an honor to represent the American people abroad. I treasure each of my experiences and the inspiring people I have met along the way.”
Concluding her farewell message, Melania thanked the people of America.
“No words can express the depth of my gratitude for the privilege of having served as your First Lady,” she said.
“To all the people of this country: You will be in my heart forever.
“Thank you. God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.”
Melania assumed the role of First Lady of the US when Trump – who she married in 2005 – became the 45th president in 2017.
