Schakowsky Statement Marking 22 Years Since September 11th Attacks
EVANSTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Chief Deputy Whip and the Ranking Member of the Innovation, Data, and Commerce Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following statement marking 22 years since the September 11th attacks:
“On this day, 22 years ago, our world changed forever. A bright, sunny morning quickly turned into one of the darkest days in our nation’s history when terrorists executed a horrific and unimaginable attack, killing nearly 3,000 Americans and wounding thousands more. Today and every day, we honor and mourn those lives we tragically lost on September 11, 2001, in New York, Washington, D.C., and those in Shanksville, PA, who heroically sacrificed their lives to save others. We also remember the Americans who survived that devastating day 22 years ago but have since passed away from their 9/11 related injuries and illnesses. We must ensure that their memories and legacies live on for generations to come.
“Let us also pay tribute to the first responders, firefighters, police officers, members of our military, and other emergency personnel who stepped up and answered the call to protect and serve that day and in the years that followed. We are forever grateful for your bravery and sacrifice.
“September 11th, 2001, and the days that followed were a tumultuous time, but there are a couple moments I will never forget. I remember seeing the smoke rising from the Pentagon out my office window. Soon after, my staff and I quickly evacuated the Capitol complex. Then, later that day, I returned and joined my colleagues, Democrats and Republicans, on the Capitol steps in a show of unity. A lot was still unknown at the time, but one thing was for sure, we were not backing down and we stood united together. We linked arms and proudly sang God Bless America. Another moment came the following weekend. I invited community and faith leaders and neighbors to join in a Solidarity March down Devon Avenue, the heart of an international marketplace. Over 100 people, carrying American flags, walked arm in arm down the street to declare that we would not let this disaster divide us. It was a moment of inspiration, hope, and unity.
“We may come from different backgrounds, nationalities, and cultures, but we all call this country home. No matter the divides that face us, we must always remember that we are stronger together."
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