WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of State Marco Rubio and First Lady Melania Trump hosted the annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards ceremony at the Department of State.
“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, and exhibit bravery in the face of unforeseen obstacles. Today, we celebrate courage—a strength that is rooted in love. This truth is illustrated through our honorees, who have proven that love can inspire extraordinary valor,” said First Lady Melania Trump.
Now in its 19th year, the IWOC Award honors women worldwide who have shown exceptional courage, strength, and leadership, often at significant personal risk.
Since its inception in 2007, the Department of State has recognized more than 200 women from over 90 countries. U.S. diplomatic missions nominate one woman of courage from their host countries, with finalists selected and approved by senior Department officials.
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