Hilda L. Solis: “I rise today to mourn the victims of the attacks on American on September 11, 2001, and to celebrate the way Americans…”

“I rise today to mourn the victims of the attacks on American on September 11, 2001, and to celebrate the way Americans worked together to rise up from the ashes of the wreckage. In the 3 years since our soil was attacked, the service of America's Armed Forces, the scores of volunteers and first responders who have helped the victims and their families, and the many ordinary people who help out in times of tragedy and grief proved through their actions the true greatness of America. There is a new reality in our world. America continues to strengthen its ability to defend itself against all types of enemies. But while we strengthen our defenses we must not forget that which makes America great and allows her to flourish--our civil liberties. The United States must be both a leader and a partner in the world in order to stop senseless acts of violence. Diplomatic words and peaceful actions show an alternative to the use of force; I hope that both can ultimately lead to a world free from terror.”