Genesee News

On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 people lost their lives in attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. Among the victims were dozens of Michigan residents. Each year, many take time to remember those who died, the first responders who acted with bravery, and the families affected by the tragedy.

Recently, the Michigan House held a ceremony to honor the victims of the 9/11 attacks. The event also recognized first responders and members of the military from Michigan who have died in service. During this annual observance at the state Capitol, both Republican and Democrat legislators read aloud the names of fallen heroes before the House chamber.

"It is a moving and unifying moment at our state Capitol where we put our differences aside and honor what makes us great as Americans," one legislator said.

The column reflected on how during crises like September 11th, Americans came together regardless of political affiliation. "When selfless people at the World Trade Center put their own lives in peril to help others down flights of stairs so they could get out safely, no one cared about a particular person’s political views," it stated. "When the heroes on United Flight 93 were plotting to storm the cockpit and overtake hijackers who were attempting to carry out another attack, there wasn’t a show of hands on who was a Republican and who was a Democrat."

"They were Americans, united as one," reads another passage.

The writer expressed concern over recent increases in politically motivated violence. The column referenced events such as an attempt to kidnap Michigan's governor, an attack targeting members of Congress during softball practice, assassinations involving elected officials in Minnesota with connections to threats against Michigan politicians, and recent threats against Michigan’s lieutenant governor and a sitting state senator.

"These are unacceptable, escalatory acts that have no place in our society, let alone the political realm," it stated. "They present a dangerous erosion of the ideals we all hold dear."

The legislator called for a return to civil debate: "As an elected legislator, I am working to go back to a time where we can freely debate the merits of an idea or bill... without fear of intimidation or violence." The column concluded by urging respect for differing ideas as essential for constructive dialogue: "We must focus on the problems we are trying to solve rather than the personality or individual we are opposing. We must remember that disagreements over ideas is what makes our country great..."