Remarks by the First Lady at the International Women of Courage Awards Ceremony

[As prepared for delivery.]

Good afternoon, and thank you, Secretary Rubio.

Throughout my life, I have harnessed the power of love as a source of strength during challenging times. Love has inspired me to embrace forgiveness, nurture empathy, and exhibit bravery in the face of unforeseen obstacles.

Today, we celebrate courage – a strength that is based in love.

This truth is illustrated through our honorees, who prove that love can inspire extraordinary valor even in the face of vulnerability. Their remarkable stories are a testament to the power of love in practice – for family, community, and our world. This is especially evident in places where their passion defies convention and when it has been shown at great personal risk of stigma, persecution, or harm.

The courageous Georgiana Pascu, one of our award recipients, exemplifies love in action. Georgiana is a "watchdog" who defends the dignity of Romanians whose voices cannot be heard. She fearlessly enters facilities designated as "care centers" to rescue people with disabilities who are unwittingly held captive. In fact, Georgiana usually shows up unannounced and discovers the unimaginable – helpless adults and children bound, sedated, starving, and in extreme cases, dying. Thanks to Georgiana's brave work, dozens of offenders have been charged with human trafficking, exploitation, and even organized crime.

We are honored to join an exceptional assembly of brave women who have shown their love and refused to let fear or hardship define them. Their collective achievements and dedication move us all.

Let us also take a moment to acknowledge those who persist in their struggles. For each of them, love serves as a powerful catalyst, instilling a profound sense of purpose in their endeavors.

To the women who are driven to speak out for justice, even though their voices are trembling. To the women who are motivated to rise up for their community, when all others remain indifferent. To the women who feel compelled to heal wounds caused by hatred – and cherish peace.

The 2025 International Women of Courage Award recipients come from diverse backgrounds and regions. Yet, love transcends boundaries and territories – it is a universal language. Their courage propels all of humanity forward by advocating to end violence against women and girls, promoting democratic governance, defending human rights, championing education, and fighting injustice. Through their efforts, they instigate progress for all of humanity.

These extraordinary women illuminate the transformative power of love in shaping our world. Their journeys remind us that true courage is born from a deep commitment to others, showing that love fuels the call for justice.

Through their brave actions, they inspire us to embrace our own potential for change, teaching us that while courage drives us forward, it is love that lays the groundwork for lasting impact. Let their stories motivate us to take courageous steps, knowing that each act of love can spark a ripple of transformation.

Thank you.