Florida Democratic Party Chair Releases Statement On The One Year Anniversary Of The January 6 Attack On The Capitol
On this day, one year ago, a violent mob instigated by Donald Trump and his supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol seeking to stop the peaceful transfer of power in our democracy. Their cold-blooded efforts led to the deaths and injuries of their fellow Americans, including several police officers. In the months since, Republican leaders across Florida and the country, many of whom initially condemned this most un-American lawlessness, have now doubled down on the same lies that led to the attempted insurrection in the first place.
Florida Democratic Party Chair Manny Diaz released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the attack:
"A year ago today, our nation witnessed a despicable attack on our democracy. A mob that was fed lies about the 2020 election stormed the U.S. Capitol, the people’s house, to stop the peaceful transfer of power, overturn a presidential election, and physically attack our representatives; even the Vice President was a target. They beat police officers with flags, ransacked the House and Senate chambers, and caused the deaths of several fellow Americans.
For many like myself, who came to the United States from other shores, seeking refuge and sanctuary from totalitarianism, the events of January 6 are especially worrisome.
I never thought I would live to revisit that experience here in America. Americans physically attacking other Americans. Americans seeking to overthrow their government instigated by the President of our own country, motivated not by love of country or some public good, but by an insatiable greediness for power and self-interest.
On this first year anniversary of this dark day, I pray for our country and for our fellow Americans.
I pray that our elected leaders stand up to the hate, the lies and the extremism that led to the vicious attack on our Capitol.
I pray that we move on from the violence and anger of the Trump era that resulted in this unprecedented attack on our Capitol.
I pray that our system of justice not shy away from holding those responsible accountable for their ruthless acts, the grief they caused the families of the Capitol Police, including those that survived, and the lasting damage to our principles of our democracy.
I pray that all of us work together - Democrats, Republicans, and Independents - on behalf of the common good to restore decency, honor and respect for the rule of law.
I pray that we be guided by this message: regardless of our differences, we are one people. We are Americans. United we stand, divided we fall.
I pray that we emerge from this sad episode more united and more committed to preserve, protect, and defend our government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
And I pray that I, my children, and their children will never have to relive another January 6."