A new bipartisan bill championed by Long Island Rep. Tom Suozzi would declare Sep. 11 a federal holiday — and recognize that the fateful day “changed us forever.”
Suozzi, who represents New York’s 3rd Congressional District, this week introduced the “Patriot Day Act,” which would give citizens the “time to commemorate one of the most significant days in American history,” according to a press release.
“Our goal with this legislation is to let us never forget the pain and anguish that was visited upon us on that day,” Suozzi said in a statement.
“Let us never forget the extraordinary valor and selflessness of our first responders,” he continued. “Let us never forget the unbreakable spirit of unity and harmony that defined the weeks and months that followed that fateful day.”
“And above all, let us rededicate ourselves to upholding the enduring dream and promise of America.”
The bill’s co-sponsor, Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, added that the day of profound tragedy also revealed the strength of the American people.
“In our darkest hour, we stood united,” he said. “The Patriot Day Act is a reaffirmation of our national character, ensuring that the heroism, sacrifice, and unity of that day are never lost to time.
“Just as Memorial Day honors those who gave their lives in service and Independence Day marks the birth of our nation, September 11th deserves the same national recognition.”
Nearly 3,000 people — most of whom were civilians — died during the shock attack, which spurred several wars in the Middle East that would continue for decades.
The Patriot Day Act is the first bill Suozzi and Fitzpatrick have sponsored together as co-leaders of the House’s bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, the release said.
“September 11th is a sacred day of remembrance for all Americans, especially those of us from New York and Pennsylvania,” Suozzi said.
“Introducing a bipartisan bill to commemorate the memory of 9/11 — one of immense loss, and yet inspiring unity — with my Problem Solvers Co-Chair exemplifies the indomitable spirit of the American people.”
“In times of crisis, we have much more that unites us than divides us.”
