Washington, Feb 23 (NationPress) On Monday, US President Donald Trump held a poignant Angel Families Remembrance Ceremony at the White House, where he officially proclaimed February 22 as “National Angel Family Day,” underscoring his administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

Speaking to families who have suffered losses due to crimes involving undocumented immigrants, Trump characterized the event as deeply solemn, emphasizing that the proclamation serves to acknowledge their grief and hardship.

“Today, we gather for a truly solemn occasion,” Trump remarked during the ceremony.

He noted that the proclamation had previously encountered delays due to various legal and procedural hurdles but is now being formally enacted.

“February 22 will officially be recognized as National Angel Family Day,” the President stated.

In his address, Trump also criticized the immigration policies of the previous administration, claiming that “11,888 murderers were permitted entry into our country under the Biden administration,” stating that border enforcement has been significantly bolstered since then.

He highlighted one of the first legislative actions taken under his administration, the Laken Riley Act, which has led to thousands of arrests related to immigration violations.

“Among the first bills I signed into law last year was the Laken Riley Act,” Trump stated, adding that it has resulted in “over 21,000 arrests of illegal aliens.”

Several family members of victims spoke at the event, sharing their personal stories.

Allison, mother of Laken Riley, expressed gratitude for Trump's commitment to supporting affected families, saying, “You have consistently assured us that you would not forget Laken. You have fought a battle that few would dare to take on.”

She described her daughter as “responsible, hardworking, kind, and selfless,” thanking the President for acknowledging victims and their families.

Ethan Crary, a police officer who had previously arrested the individual later accused of killing Riley, remarked that systemic enforcement gaps contributed to the tragedy.

“I did my job, I placed him in custody. The system failed—no detainer, no accountability, no deportation, and an innocent American life was lost,” he stated.

Marie Vega, whose son Javier Vega Jr. was murdered in Texas, expressed her appreciation for the administration’s recognition of affected families.

“Thank you for reinstating law and order. We appreciate you recognizing us, the Angel Families,” she said.

Laura Wilkerson, whose son Joshua was killed in 2010, recalled meeting Trump and noted his commitment to raising awareness of these issues.

“He promised he would never forget my son’s story and would continue fighting for American families,” she said.

Jody Jones, whose brother Rocky was killed in California, also spoke about the significance of supporting the families of victims.

Trump took this opportunity to reiterate his opposition to sanctuary city policies and detailed steps his administration has taken to enhance border security.

“We have restored our border, and it is now completely secure,” he declared, adding that the nation is “at the safest level it has been in many years.”

The ceremony concluded with the reading of victims’ names, a candle-lighting tribute, and a performance of “Amazing Grace.”

Immigration has consistently been a pivotal and contentious issue in US politics, shaping presidential campaigns, legislative discussions, and public policy debates.

Trump initially secured the presidency in 2016 by focusing on immigration enforcement and border security, making this issue a cornerstone of his political agenda.