WHEREAS, The United States was founded on the principles of democracy, liberty, and justice, which are values enshrined in the United States Constitution and safeguarded by the rule of law; and

WHEREAS, On January 6, 2021, the United States Capitol building, a symbol of American democracy and the heart of the legislative branch, was assaulted in an unprecedented act of violence and insurrection; and

WHEREAS, While bravely and successfully protecting American democracy from the violent January 6, 2021, insurrection, law enforcement officers suffered at least 114 casualties, including up to five officer deaths; and

WHEREAS, The insurrection on January 6, 2021, sought to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power, which is a cornerstone of democratic governance that has been a hallmark of American political life since the nation’s founding; and

WHEREAS, The resilience of American democracy was demonstrated on that day as the Congress of the United States reconvened and fulfilled its constitutional duty by affirming the will of the people through the certification of the electoral college results; and

WHEREAS, The insurrection on January 6 serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy and the necessity for continued vigilance in protecting the institutions that uphold the American ideals of freedom, equality, and justice; and

WHEREAS, It is imperative that we, as a nation, remember the lessons of January 6, 2021, to ensure that such an assault on democracy is never repeated and to recommit ourselves to the principles that unite us as Americans; and

WHEREAS, January 6 should be recognized as a day of reflection and remembrance to honor those who defend democracy, both past and present, and to reaffirm our commitment to the enduring values that define our nation; now, therefore, be it