Washington, DC – Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement.

Twenty-three years ago, Al Qaeda, a violent terrorist organization, attacked America and killed 2,977 of our fellow citizens on September 11. Today, we remember the lives of the fallen and pray for the families who continue to grieve their loved ones.

Hundreds of first responders selflessly and bravely answered the call and ran towards danger. They risked their own safety to rescue whoever they could find. Due to the toxic exposures they endured at Ground Zero, many went on to contract severe or terminal long-term illnesses.

As we commemorate that fateful day, we also mark another tragic milestone. Twenty-eight additional members of the FDNY passed away from 9/11-related illnesses this year alone, meaning that more FDNY responders have now died from 9/11-related diseases than were killed on the day of the attack.

Our commitment to our courageous first responders is ironclad and must endure. House Democrats will always stand up for the heroes who gave everything on that tragic day. We will never forget their sacrifice.