The United States Postal Service (USPS) has unveiled a commemorative “Forever” stamp honoring former First Lady Barbara Bush (1925–2018), celebrating her enduring legacy as a national advocate for literacy. The announcement was made during a ceremony at the White House, where the stamp artwork was revealed by First Lady Melania Trump; Dorothy “Doro” Bush Koch, Barbara Bush’s daughter; Alice Yates, CEO of the George & Barbara Bush Foundation; and Judy de Torok, vice president of Corporate Affairs at USPS, according to the postal service’s website.
The official dedication of the stamp is scheduled for June 10 at Ganny’s Garden in Kennebunkport, Maine, honoring what would have been Barbara Bush’s 100th birthday. The stamp is based on her 2005 White House portrait, showcasing her in a black suit and purple blouse adorned with her iconic triple-strand pearls.
Barbara Bush served as First Lady of the United States from 1989 to 1993 when her husband, George H.W. Bush, was the 41st president. Known for her frankness, warmth, and deep commitment to her family of six children, Bush also championed literacy as a means of uplifting individuals and families. Her advocacy was deeply personal, sparked by her son Neil’s experience with dyslexia. She went on to found the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, which has impacted millions of Americans through education programs and reading resources.
“We are deeply honored that the United States Postal Service is paying tribute to our mother with a commemorative Forever stamp,” Bush Koch said at the event. “This special stamp serves as a lasting reminder of Barbara Bush’s enduring love for family and friends, sharp wit, and unwavering commitment to ensure that every man, woman and child has the opportunity to read, write and comprehend.”
First Lady Melania Trump hosted the unveiling of the stamp, marking a notable public appearance since her husband’s inauguration. In her remarks, she celebrated Barbara Bush’s political and family life, highlighting her “forward-thinking vision” and legacy of service. “Mrs. Bush’s legacy is marked by her respect for tradition while also breaking with convention,” Melania Trump remarked.
The ceremony took place in the East Room on a rainy afternoon, attended by members of the Bush family, including Neil Bush and Dorothy Bush Koch. While the event honored Barbara Bush’s contributions, it also served as a reminder of the complicated relationship between the Bush family and Donald Trump. Notably absent were former President George W. Bush and his brother Jeb Bush.
George W. Bush, who has maintained a lower profile since leaving office, was in Washington for President Donald Trump’s inauguration earlier this year but did not attend the ceremony. His absence reflects the ongoing tensions between him and Trump, which have been evident since the 2016 presidential campaign. George W. Bush did not endorse Trump in any of his presidential campaigns and has expressed his discontent with Trump’s approach to politics.
Melania Trump’s speech included a nod to Barbara Bush’s iconic 1990 Wellesley College commencement address, where she famously said, “Who knows, somewhere out in this audience may even be someone who will one day follow in my footsteps and preside over the White House, and I wish him well.” Melania highlighted the significance of this statement, noting how it has become an important moment in the conversation surrounding women’s roles in society.
“Over 35 years have passed since Barbara Bush made the call for a female American president,” Melania said, emphasizing Bush’s courage in standing for causes that were often seen as ahead of their time. She praised Bush for her support of people living with HIV/AIDS and her advocacy for gay rights, stating, “I applaud Mrs. Bush’s mark defending our society’s vital need for women across all avenues, whether CEO or homemaker.”
The unveiling of the stamp is a significant tribute to Barbara Bush, who is only the eighth first lady to be honored with a U.S. postage stamp. The image featured on the first-class postage stamp is from a 1995 portrait of Bush by artist Chas Fagan.
Despite the political tensions, Melania Trump struck a respectful and unifying tone during the ceremony, reflecting on how Barbara Bush transformed the White House into a home and a platform for public service. “She inspired people to pursue their personal dreams,” Trump said, underscoring Bush’s long-standing influence on American values.
As the official dedication approaches on June 10, the stamp serves not only as a tribute to Barbara Bush’s legacy but also as a reminder of the importance of literacy and education in America. The event highlighted the enduring impact of her advocacy and the values she championed throughout her life.
The unveiling of this commemorative stamp honors Barbara Bush’s contributions as first lady and her lasting influence on the nation, encouraging future generations to embrace the spirit of service and commitment to literacy that she embodied.
