John,

Today marks the twentieth anniversary of 9/11, the day the United States and the world changed forever.

I remember the day vividly. I remember the uncertainty and fear as the morning unfolded and the news broke. I remember the sadness and anguish over the grave loss of life amongst friends, families, and neighbors. I remember the way first responders in New York City, Shanksville, PA, and at the Pentagon risked their lives to help their fellow Americans.

I also remember the way our country stood strong, united as one after so much was lost on that dark day twenty years ago.

Today especially, my thoughts are with the families who have suffered so much. With extremism on the rise at home and abroad we must remain vigilant and continue to work to build a better world in which people of all beliefs and backgrounds can live in peace.

Respectfully,

Jan Schakowsky