Like many of you, today, I reflect back on the tragedies of that day, when our country was shattered by those horrific events. I reflect, too, on the incredible acts of generosity and community that took place in New York City and across the country.
That day served as a reminder that our world isn't as small as we thought it was. We are all deeply connected.
I also reflect today on the particular trauma that some communities felt in the wake of 9/11. Many Muslims, Arabs and South Asians were targeted first by hate crimes, and soon after by government policies that violated civil liberties and due process. If there was a silver lining to those events, it was that communities realized that they needed to be engaged in our democracy. They realized that building coalitions was necessary to build power. And they realized that we all would have to fight to ensure that our nation stayed true to our ideals of rights and liberties, that safety could not come at the expense of our liberties.
It was right after 9/11 that I came fully into my own political consciousness. Out of those events, I started the organization called Hate Free Zone, now called OneAmerica, to fight for immigrant, civil and human rights. We accomplished so much -- and OneAmerica is still continuing its important work.
Our work was not -- is not -- easy, but it is necessary. In the end, our organizing efforts are life-giving because they remind us all that we each have power and that change does not happen unless we push for it. The coalitions we build are so powerful: decrying terrorism and hate of all kinds, standing for justice for all and not just for some.
Today, as a member of Congress, I still see myself as an organizer. I am so proud to work with groups across the country who are deeply embedded in the struggle for justice. Whether to ensure that black lives really DO matter, or to stand up for immigrants, workers, or LGBTQ people, we know that our work can only be successful if we unite and stand boldly for justice, dignity and respect for everyone.
No, our work is not yet done.
But this is our country, and we must continue to give everything we can to making it the best it can be. We must continue to strive toward progress, a more perfect union, a more perfect world. We must continue to move forward.
Today, we remember all those who died in the September 11 attacks. We remember all those who gave selflessly of themselves. We remember all those who were targeted by hate in the days, months and years after. And, we remember all the resolve and power that emerged and continues to grow to ensure justice for all.
Be good to one another. We are all in this together.
Sincerely,
Pramila Jayapal
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