On the 17th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, DNC Chair Tom Perez released the following statement:
“17 years ago, nearly 3,000 people were murdered in the worst terrorist attack in our history. It was an attack not just on our people but on our values and our way of life. But instead of succumbing to fear and division, the American people came together and refused to allow terrorism to triumph. Amid the chaos, we witnessed the courage of first responders who ran into the smoke and ordinary heroes who sacrificed to save others. And in the nearly two decades since, a new generation of heroes has risen to serve the country we love and protect us at home and abroad.
“On this anniversary, we must keep all those affected by this tragedy in our hearts. We must hold fast to the values we share as Americans. And we must ensure that hope and compassion will always outlasted hatred and cruelty.”
In solemn remembrance of victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks and the heroes who valiantly gave their lives that day, the Democratic National Committee will observe a day of silence with regard to campaign activity. We’ll instead take time to pray and reflect on a tragic day that not only changed the lives of all Americans, but changed the world. The DNC will never forget the lives that were taken that day or the brave first responders who answered the call of duty.