Melania Trump Continues Cyberbullying Campaign: Social Media ‘Destructive and Harmful’

The first lady doesn’t mention her husband’s behavior on Twitter

Melania Trump
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Melania Trump is continuing her personal crusade against cyberbullying. During remarks at the Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention (FPBP) Cyberbullying Prevention Summit in Washington D.C., the first lady warned about the harm that can be caused by using social media.

“I launched my Be Best campaign in May, with a focus on the many issues facing children today – one of them being the safe and responsible use of social media,” she said. “Social media is an inevitable part of our children’s daily lives. It can be used in many positive ways, but can also be destructive and harmful when used incorrectly.”

It’s traditional for a first lady to select an issue to champion during her time in office. Melania’s predecessor Michelle Obama tackled obesity and physical fitness, while Laura Bush focused on children’s literacy.

Melania Trump’s decision to take on cyberbullying and appropriate social media use is a fitting choice for the digital era but has been widely mocked by those who point to her husband’s behavior on Twitter.

As the first lady spoke about the harmful effects of social media, President Trump was launching attacks on his critics, including former CIA Director John Brennan and special counsel Robert Mueller. Trump has credited his bruising public style online and on the campaign trail for clinching the GOP nomination and ultimately the presidency. For years, he has used Twitter to attack many people and a number of institutions.

“The first lady’s presence at events such as today’s cyberbullying summit elevates an issue that is important to children and families across this country,” the first lady’s communications director Stephanie Grisham said. “She is aware of the criticism but it will not deter her from doing what she feels is right. The president is proud of her commitment to children and encourages her in all that she does.”

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