Michelle Obama recently shared a heartfelt message on Instagram alongside her husband, former US President Barack Obama. This comes amid ongoing rumors about their marriage. In her post, Michelle announced that The Obama Presidential Center would honor Hadiya Pendleton, a talented honor roll student whose tragic death in 2013 shocked the nation. Notably, Pendleton had performed at Barack’s second inauguration just days before her untimely passing.

Plans for a Memorial Garden in Chicago

Furthermore, Michelle and Barack revealed their plans to open a memorial garden at the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago to honor Pendleton’s memory. In her Instagram story, Michelle shared, “To this day, I carry Hadiya’s story with me everywhere I go. She had an extraordinary light that will not be forgotten, and Barack and I look forward to honoring her memory through a dedicated space at the Obama Presidential Center.” She also referred to Barack as “my husband,” subtly addressing the recent divorce rumors.

Rumors and Absences Fuel Speculations

The rumors about the Obamas’ marriage began to spread after Michelle chose not to attend President Donald Trump’s swearing-in ceremony while Barack was present. Additionally, Michelle was absent from President Jimmy Carter’s funeral, explaining it was due to a “scheduling conflict” as she spent time in Hawaii. This followed the passing of her mother, Marian Robinson, in May, which led Michelle to step back from the public eye.

Michelle Reflects on Grief and Campaign Involvement

Despite this, Michelle opened up about her grief at the Democratic National Convention in August. She admitted that her mother’s death had a profound impact on her and that she wasn’t sure if she’d be able to speak. “I still feel her loss so profoundly – I wasn’t even sure I’d be steady enough to stand before you tonight,” she said. However, Michelle still took an active role in supporting Kamala Harris during her presidential campaign.