Everything
Insensitive. Inappropriate. Disgraceful. These are just some of the adjectives used to describe the First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump, who wore a AU $54 Zara jacket with the words, “I really don’t care, do u?” to a visit the migrant children who have been separated by their parents under President Donald Trump’s zero tolerance immigration legislation.
“It’s a jacket. There was no hidden message,” her spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said when questioned over the military-style jacket. “After today’s important visit to Texas, I hope the media isn’t going to choose to focus on her wardrobe.”
However, Mr Trump gave his version of events and apparently the jacket was worn with intent:
“I REALLY DON’T CARE, DO U?” written on the back of Melania’s jacket, refers to the Fake News Media. Melania has learned how dishonest they are, and she truly no longer cares!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 21, 2018
But of all the coats in the world to wear, why would her stylist and team choose this one – on this day – to meet children literally ripped from their parent’s arms at the Southern border? The style and label itself fiercely contrasts Mrs Trump’s usual high-end sartorial exploits and her ostensible focus as First Lady on child wellbeing. It begs the question, was the so-called “no hidden message” actually a deliberate and literal declaration? It should be noted Mrs Trump did get changed into a pale lemon jacket before landing in McAllen, Texas. But alas, the message was already loud and clear.
The unannounced visit came in the wake of the President implementing an executive order to reverse his original policy of splitting families apart for criminal cross examination – a bill that drew global condemnation. While the immigrant vetting process will remain the same, families will remain together.
We have to maintain strong borders or we will no longer have a country that we can be proud of – and if we show any weakness, millions of people will journey into our country.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 21, 2018
Mrs Trump’s visit was intended to support the children who haven’t yet been reunited with their parents. “I’m glad I’m here and I’m looking forward to seeing and meeting children, but first of all let me begin to recognise each of you and thanking you for all that you do, for your heroic work that you do every day and what you do for those children,” Mrs Trump said.
“I’d also like to ask you how I can help these children to reunite with their families as quickly as possible.”
