A somber ceremony unfolded Monday as families who have lost loved ones to crimes committed by individuals who entered the country illegally expressed their gratitude to the President. Their voices, raw with grief and a yearning for justice, filled the room with a weight of unimaginable loss.
Allyson Phillips, her voice trembling with emotion, publicly thanked the President for addressing the issue that stole her daughter Laken Riley’s future. Laken, a bright 22-year-old nursing student, was tragically killed on February 22, 2024, by a Venezuelan national, leaving a void that can never be filled.
Phillips acknowledged the immense pressure and criticism the President faces, stating he was undertaking a task “most people just wouldn't do.” Her words weren’t about politics, but a mother’s desperate plea for a safer future, a future where other families wouldn’t endure the same agonizing pain.
Jody Jones, haunted by the brutal murder of his brother Rocky, delivered a powerfully emotional statement. Rocky was shot eight times at close range, a senseless act of violence that left Jones feeling forgotten by those who prioritize the rights of those who entered the country illegally over the rights of American families.
Jones’s voice resonated with frustration and a demand to be heard. He passionately questioned why the suffering of American families is often overshadowed, declaring, “What about us? We mean somethin' too.” He found solace in the President’s understanding of their plight.
The President responded by signing a proclamation, officially designating February 22, 2026, as National Angel Family Day. This day is intended to honor the memories of those lost and to acknowledge the enduring pain of their families.
The proclamation wasn’t merely a symbolic gesture; it included a call to action, urging public officials, community leaders, and all citizens to actively work towards ending the violence and lawlessness that has claimed so many innocent lives. It was a solemn commitment to prioritize safety and justice for all Americans.
