What was the Al Smith Charity Gala attended by Trump?

The 79th Alfred E Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner took place on Thursday, at the New York Hilton Midtown, bringing together prominent figures to support women and children in need.

Hosted by His Eminence Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York, this year’s event featured the former US President, Donald Trump, as the keynote speaker, with comedian Jim Gaffigan serving as the evening's emcee. With overwhelming interest, the event remained sold out.

Although US Vice President Kamala Harris was absent, marking her as the first presidential candidate in years to skip the event, she submitted a pre-recorded video that showcased comedian Molly Shannon portraying her famous "Superstar" character, Mary Katherine Gallagher.

Meanwhile, Trump attended the dinner with his wife Melania Trump.

What is the Al Smith Charity Dinner?

• The Alfred E Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, commonly known as the Al Smith Charity Dinner, is a prestigious annual white-tie event held in New York that raises millions for Catholic charities, supporting vulnerable women and children in the state.
• Since its inception in 1946, the event has become a cultural landmark, providing a platform where major political figures, including US presidential candidates, share the stage for light-hearted banter and unity, even in election years.
• The dinner serves as a living tribute to Alfred E. Smith, the first Roman Catholic to run for US president on a major party ticket and a four-term governor of New York.
• Smith is celebrated for his contributions to labour reform and social security legislation, and the event continues his legacy by distributing 100% of the proceeds to carefully selected charitable organizations that aid New York’s neediest children.
• The foundation, created by Francis Cardinal Spellman, honours Smith’s commitment to the “little people” by providing grants to projects that bring hope to the poor and underprivileged, irrespective of their race, creed, or colour.
• In addition to its charitable mission, the Al Smith Charity Dinner has become an iconic political and cultural event, often marking the final occasion when presidential nominees share a stage before Election Day.
• It showcases the enduring spirit of goodwill in American politics while generating crucial support for New York’s most vulnerable communities.

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