Melania Trump touts foster care bill and 'Take It Down Act' at 113th First Lady's Luncheon

WASHINGTON, DC: First Lady Melania Trump, on Thursday, April 23, used the annual First Lady’s Luncheon in Washington to deliver a forward-looking message centered on children, leadership and the future, telling guests that success must be built through vision and effort.

Addressing a ballroom packed with nearly 2,000 attendees, Melania Trump said communities must actively shape progress rather than wait for it to arrive.

Melania Trump spotlights foster care reform push

The annual event, one of Washington’s oldest social traditions, was held this year at the Washington Hilton, where the first lady used the platform to spotlight her growing portfolio of youth-focused initiatives.

A key part of her speech centered on efforts to improve the US foster care system.

Melania Trump said recent discussions with lawmakers were aimed at advancing major reforms and expressed confidence that the proposal could soon become law.

“This will mark the second piece of legislation I have championed for the protection of America’s next generation,” she said. She has increasingly made child welfare a core part of her public agenda.

The first lady also highlighted the 'Take It Down Act', a law she supported that targets AI-generated explicit content and deepfakes.

Melania Trump signaled that online safety remains a major priority alongside foster care reform.

Trump also spoke about efforts to reunite children displaced by the Russia-Ukraine War. She said she has been involved in helping return children separated from their families, adding that more reunifications have taken place in recent months.

Usha Vance introduces FLOTUS

Second Lady Usha Vance introduced Melania Trump at the luncheon.

After the remarks, both women were presented with gifts by the organizers.

Vance, who is expecting her fourth child, received a baby blanket, while Melania Trump was gifted a painting featuring Washington landmarks, including the White House, Capitol and Lincoln Memorial.

This year’s luncheon theme celebrated America’s upcoming 250th anniversary and the state of Georgia.

Tables were decorated with magnolia-themed centerpieces and coordinated linens honoring the state flower.

Guests also received commemorative gift bags featuring patriotic keepsakes, including a stars-and-stripes bottle of Diet Coke, a nod to President Donald Trump.

The event, traditionally known for maintaining distance from politics and media attention, opened its doors to reporters this year at the request of the first lady.

The luncheon also marked another sign that Melania Trump, once known for limited public appearances, has stepped into a more active and visible role focused on youth advocacy, family policy and civic initiatives.