CAPAC Members Commemorate the 23rd Anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, which tragically claimed the lives of 2,977 Americans and forever changed our nation and world.
In recognition of this anniversary, CAPAC Members released the following statements:
CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28):
“I join my CAPAC colleagues today, on the 23rd anniversary of September 11, 2001, to honor and grieve the 2,977 innocent lives lost in the attacks of that day. Our country will never forget the incredible patriotism of the first responders and good Samaritans who stepped in, despite the dangers, and took the critical first steps in helping our nation recover from some of its darkest days. Yet, while most Americans came closer together after the attacks, many Muslim, Middle Eastern, Arab, Sikh, and South Asian communities faced flagrant racial profiling and surveillance by our own government. As we continue to combat xenophobia, discrimination, and hate against these groups, this solemn anniversary also reminds us that the pretense of national security can never be an excuse to target and profile entire communities. Today, we remember those lost and honor their memories and unite against the fear that threatens the civil liberties of our fellow Americans.”
CAPAC First Vice-Chair Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06):
“The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, forever changed New York City and our nation as whole. Today, on the 23rd anniversary, we remember the 2,977 lives lost and honor the first responders who risked their lives to help others. As we reflect on this tragic day, we also acknowledge the rise in discrimination and violence against South Asian, Muslim, Sikh, and Southwest Asians in the aftermath of 9/11. Let this be a reminder to all Americans that in times of tragedy and uncertainty we must come together and stand firmly against hate in all its forms”
CAPAC Second Vice-Chair Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39):
“23 years ago, cowardly terrorists took the lives of thousands of innocent Americans. The American spirit was tested, but our resilience never wavered. In the wake of this awful day, President George W. Bush called on Americans to not target or discriminate against Arab, Muslim, and other communities. As we remember the victims of this atrocity, let us also uphold the President’s call and reaffirm America’s promise of dignity and respect for all. We are stronger by standing together.”
CAPAC Whip Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-36):
“On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 people were killed during the deadliest terrorist attacks to occur on American soil. Today, 23 years later, our nation continues to grieve this profound loss. While we come together on this day to mourn, we must also acknowledge the discrimination and violence faced by Southeast Asian, Arab, Muslim and Sikh Americans in the aftermath of those horrific attacks. With the concerning rise of hate crimes in our country, it is crucial that we unite in promoting tolerance and compassion. On this day of remembrance, let us honor the lives of those we lost and commemorate the brave first responders and everyday Americans who showed us that true patriotism means caring for our neighbors in need.”
Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10):
“Twenty-three years ago, we experienced the worst terrorist attack on American soil and lost nearly 3,000 of our friends, loved ones, and neighbors. Living in downtown Manhattan on September 11th, I will never forget watching the second plane hit the Towers and the soot-covered people walking up Hudson Street. I am incredibly proud to represent the resilient Lower Manhattan community that has kept the memory of our loved ones alive. Today, we take a moment to mourn those we lost, acknowledge those whose lives have been forever changed, and thank the first responders who put their lives on the line to keep us safe. In their honor, we must ensure that evil never triumphs over the American spirit. We are New York Strong, and we will never forget.”
Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17):
“23 years ago, America experienced the most devastating terrorist attack in the nation’s history. We must never forget the thousands of innocent people killed on 9/11 or the selfless first responders who both risked their lives and sacrificed their health by searching through toxic rubble. As we reflect on this tragedy, we must also recognize the discrimination, and violence against Muslim, Middle Eastern, Arab, Sikh, and South Asian Americans following 9/11 and vow to combat the hate and bigotry against these communities that continues today.”
Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13):
“23 years ago today, the attacks of September 11th killed 2,977 innocent Americans. We will never forget those who died on this horrific day, as well as the heroic service of the first responders that gave so much on that fateful day. As we remember those lost, we must also not forget the discrimination and violence against Middle Eastern, Arab, Sikh, and South Asian Americans following 9/11. Today, we mourn all those who lost their lives on this incredibly tragic day.”
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07):
“Today is a day of remembrance and service, as people across our country remember the devastating attack on our country 23 years ago today. We honor the memories and the heroism of our fellow Americans who died that day and in the days that followed, and who responded to the attack on our country in the days and years that followed. We also remember and learn from the discrimination that Muslim, South Asian, Sikh, Arab, and Middle Eastern communities experienced following the attacks that day and commit ourselves to standing united as Americans against all forms of bigotry. Today, we remember that, despite our differences, we are—and should be—united as Americans in protecting, defending, and serving our country and its highest ideals.”
Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15):
“Today marks 23 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks changed America forever. We will never forget the lives that were lost, the loved ones left behind, and the bravery of the first responders who made incredible sacrifices, many of whom are still in need of the healthcare they deserve. We must also acknowledge the unjust prejudice faced by the Muslim, South Asian, Sikh, Arab, and Middle Eastern communities in the wake of the September 11th attacks and vow do to better. Our nation is strongest when we are united, not divided. Today, we pause to remember, reflect, and honor the memory of those we lost and show our gratitude for those who answered the call to render aid and provide support.”
Rep. Linda Sánchez (CA-38):
“We experienced one of the darkest days in American history 23 years ago. The horrific terrorist attacks on 9/11 tragically took the lives of over 3,000 Americans and changed our country forever. Today we not only remember the victims and first responders who risked their lives, but also the countless marginalized communities who faced hatred and racism following these attacks. In moments like these we cannot let division and violence win.”