January 06, 2022

Rep. Castro Statement on One-Year Anniversary of January 6

WASHINGTON – Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement regarding the one-year anniversary of the January 6th attack on the US Capitol.

“Today marks the grim anniversary of the violent attack on the US Capitol. January 6, 2021, will live among the days of infamy remembered in United States history. It was a day that should have been a symbolic, peaceful transfer of power. However, it sadly resulted in chaos and division by right-wing extremists. We must work to reject the hatred seen one year ago today and unite to secure and strengthen our democratic institutions – America will rise to this challenge.”

“Let us not forget the true heroes of January 6, the brave Capitol police officers who defended the very beacon of our democracy. I thank them for their service and continue to mourn the lives of those taken from their families too soon. No amount of gratitude will ever be enough to honor their sacrifices. The events of that day are forever etched into my memory, and it is not lost on me that one year later, our democracy remains at stake.”

“It’s incumbent on all of us, regardless of political affiliation, to ensure that nothing like this ever happens again. Make no mistake: an attempt to overthrow the US government and decertify a clean election threatens all Americans. That’s why I am hopeful that the Jan. 6 Select Committee’s investigation will expose the truth and enlighten the American public. Anyone involved, including the former president as well as sitting members of Congress, must be held accountable.” 

“Unfortunately, a vengeful Donald Trump and many Republicans have perpetuated a Big Lie about election fraud – stirring up anger, fear, and resentment in a lot of Americans. That has led to Republican-led state legislatures like Texas only exacerbating these conspiracy claims and furthering their assault on our sacred right to vote through voter suppression laws and discriminatory practices. Now more than ever, the Senate must rid the filibuster, a Jim Crow relic, and immediately pass the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. If we fail to act swiftly and aggressively, we risk the fall of fair and free elections.”