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CAPAC Members Release Statements on Tenth Anniversary of September 11th

September 9, 2011

CAPAC Members Release Statements on Tenth Anniversary of September 11th

WASHINGTON, DC –  Today, Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements regarding the 10 year anniversary of the September 11, 2001 tragedies.

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA- 32), CAPAC Chair: “As we mark the ten year anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, we mourn and honor the lives of those who were lost that day.  The tragedy of these events were met with heroic action by many brave Americans, but they were also followed by incidents of discrimination and hate crimes against members of the Sikh, South Asian American, and Muslim American communities.  As we reflect upon the events of 9/11, let us also remember the diversity of our great nation and renew our commitment to protecting the fundamental civil rights that make our country great.”

Congresswoman Madeline Bordallo (GU), CAPAC Vice Chair: “This weekend, our nation will commemorate the 10th anniversary of the September 11 attacks against the United States.  These horrific acts of terrorism claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 Americans and forever changed the history of our nation.  As we reflect on 9/11, we honor those who died in the attacks and the first responders who risked their lives to help their fellow Americans.  We also pay tribute to the brave men and women in our armed forces who have fought, and continue to fight, in defense of our freedom.  I continue to pray for these selfless Americans and for their families and loved ones who carry the burden of profound loss.”

Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa (HI-01), CAPAC Whip: “On the 10th Anniversary of the September 11th attacks, let us honor those who lost their lives and continue to pray for their families.  We must never forget what happened on that fateful day – and always remember the countless examples of heroism and fortitude that make the United States the greatest country in the world.”

Congressman Mike Honda (CA-15), CAPAC Chair Emeritus: “Ten years ago, I mourned with the rest of the nation as we witnessed a horrific tragedy on September 11, 2001. 9/11 changed the lives of many Asian Pacific Americans, including the Muslim, Sikh, and South Asian community. Today, let us take the time to not only remember the victims and honor the heroes of this tragic event, but to also work together to overcome the ethnic and religious biases that have gripped our country for the past decade.”

Congressman Eni Faleomavaega (AS): “Our nation was forever changed by the tragic events of September 11, 2001.  Ten years later, as we join together to salute the heroes who sacrificed their all to save their fellowman and as we solemnly remember those who lost their lives on that horrific day, it is my sincere hope that we will forever cherish the values for which this nation stands.  May we always stand united in the defense of freedom and may God bless America.”

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono (HI-02): “As we remember the many lives that ended much too soon on Sept. 11, 2001, we also remember the heroism that brought us together and made us a stronger nation.  Let us honor all who were lost by recapturing the spirit of unity and aloha reborn that day.”

Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-05): “As we observe the tenth anniversary of the September 11th attacks, we remember all of those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks, and offer our sympathy and prayers for their families and loved ones.  We also remember the many heroes of that day – the brave men and women who risked life and limb to help those in need.  That sense of unity and service brought Americans from diverse backgrounds together in a common sense of purpose, and is a reminder that our diversity is what makes our country great.  But we were also starkly reminded about the costs of hate, intolerance, and warfare through any means.  As we commemorate this important anniversary, we must rekindle the sense of service and commitment to strengthening our nation we all shared in the aftermath of 9/11.”

Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (CNMI): “Many of us in the Marianas still vividly recall the images of these events, half a world away, as they unfolded before us on our television screens. Whether near or far from the attacks, our lives as Americans were forever changed. We live now constrained by new security cautions. But we live, too, newly inspired by the heroism and dedication of our countrymen, who on that day turned to help each other escape from danger, rushed directly into the inferno to pull strangers to safety, or thwarted the terrorist attackers.”

Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03): “During the immediate aftermath of the horrific events that occurred on September 11, 2001, Americans did not cower in fear but, instead, stood united.  Ultimately, Americans transformed one of the darkest moments in our nation's history into one of the greatest moments in our nation’s history – a moment of unity, selflessness and perseverance.”

Congressman Joseph Crowley (NY-7): “Today, we honor all those who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11th and the days, weeks and years following. In their memory, the resilient spirit of our nation and the unwavering resolve of the American people will live on.”

Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (CA-47): “One decade ago, our nation experienced an unfathomable tragedy.  We pause this weekend to remember the victims and families who suffered from the horrific events of September 11 and to honor the soldiers who have since lost their lives in defense of our freedom.”

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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently Chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.