Hi Friend,

Twenty years after the deadliest terrorist attack in the history of the United States, today, we remember the nearly 3,000 Americans who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Twenty years, and yet for many of us, the details of that day are still fresh in our minds. As we mark this somber anniversary, our thoughts are with those who lost loved ones, and all those who continue to suffer pain, grief, and trauma because of this tragedy.

We also pay tribute to the first responders who raced up the stairs, rushed into the rubble, and put their lives on the line to save others. Firefighters, police officers, service members, and ordinary people answered tragedy and destruction with selflessness and courage. Hundreds made the ultimate sacrifice. Because of them, on one of the darkest days in recent memory, humanity shone through. We will forever honor the heroism of our first responders who risked everything for their fellow citizens, and our veterans and service members who sacrificed so immensely -- on September 11 and countless other occasions.

On this day two decades ago, no matter our background or our political stripes, Americans came together and united under the common good of our country. Yet heartbreakingly, it seems that since that day we have grown more divided than ever. Over the last four years, irresponsible leaders spewed hate and fear and pitted us against each other for their own political gain.

While some would rather continue to divide us, and attack the rights and freedoms that make us who we are, today, we have the choice to refuse division and defend the values at the heart of our country’s promise. I am grateful to all those who are fighting to ensure everyone can feel safe, secure and hopeful about the future -- for themselves, their families, and all of us.

As we remember September 11, 2001, we will never forget those who we lost. We will continue to stand together and build back better towards a more equitable and just society that leaves no one behind.

We remember,

Gilberto Hinojosa
Chair, Texas Democratic Party