Trump to Declare “Angel Families Day”

In a significant move, President Trump will designate Monday as “Angel Families Day,” paying tribute to the families of victims like Laken Riley, who have suffered due to crimes committed by illegal immigrants.

This announcement comes ahead of the State of the Union address, where issues surrounding the border crisis and plans to deport illegal immigrants will likely take center stage.

On February 22nd, the president will sign the proclamation, honoring Laken Riley and 62 others killed by undocumented individuals. This date holds particular significance, as it marks the anniversary of Riley’s tragic murder in 2024.

White House officials shared that this event will uniquely honor “angel families,” those whose loved ones were victims of crimes by illegal aliens.

A solemn vigil will take place at 10 a.m. in the East Room of the White House, aiming to remind everyone of the importance of continued deportations of the most dangerous offenders, as outlined by officials.

Joining Trump will be Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, along with Tom Homan, the key figures driving the administration’s immigration policy, and several family members from the Angel community.

Trump has become a strong advocate for Angel families, promising to pursue justice for them and turning their experiences into a powerful political message.

According to Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, “President Trump proudly holds the Angel family accountable by establishing the most secure border ever and enforcing immigration laws.” She noted that the first bill he signed was the Laken-Riley Act, designed to prevent such tragedies in the future and protect innocent Americans.

Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student from Georgia, was murdered by a Venezuelan man while jogging, becoming a symbol in the discourse on immigration crime. The man responsible, Jose Ibarra, was convicted earlier this year.

Her death led to the creation of the Laken Riley Act, which mandates federal detention for illegal immigrants charged with crimes like robbery. Trump is slated to sign the bill on January 29, 2025, marking the beginning of his second term. Riley’s family members notably attended last year’s State of the Union address.

At Monday’s event, Trump also aims to recognize other victims, including Katie Abraham, Rachel Morin, and Kayla Hamilton, whose families will be present for the bill signing.

Abraham, killed in a drunk-driving incident in 2025 by a man in the country illegally, and Morin, murdered while hiking by an undocumented individual in 2023, are part of this remembrance. Hamilton, tragically raped and killed in 2022, was also a victim of a Salvadoran teenager.

These families are strong supporters of Trump, encouraging Congress to back his policies. Abraham’s father has participated in a White House video backing Trump, while Rachel Morin’s mother, Patty, passionately urged Congressional Republicans to pass Trump’s immigration reform last year.

Monday’s ceremony will also be attended by Patti Morin and Kayla Hamilton’s mother, Tammy Nobles.

The president remains focused on removing illegal immigrants from the U.S., a priority that has incited tensions between federal agents and protesting groups.

Trump is expected to defend his agenda during his address to the nation on Tuesday night.