This week Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) voted in support of H.R. 722, the bipartisan bill which establishes September 11 as a “National Day of Service and Remembrance.” With a vote of 416 to 0, the bill passed with overwhelming support across the aisle, demonstrating a commitment to honoring the lives lost on the tragic day eight years ago.
“By encouraging national service on this day of remembrance, we pay the highest honor to the heroes of that sad day in September 2001 and to those who continue to protect our families, neighborhoods and country,” said Congressman Higgins. “September 11 will now be a day of both remembrance and action.”
This legislation, many years in the making from 9/11 families, calls for tributes to the heroes of September 11, 2001 through expressing reflection, performing good deeds, participating in remembrance services, and engaging in community service. This National Day of Service culminates the summer of service which included food drives, neighborhood cleanups and volunteer construction work throughout the country. Hundreds of additional projects involving tens of thousands of volunteers, nonprofits, businesses, faith groups and governments will take place across the country as Americans reflect on the 9/11 anniversary.
In a letter on August 27, President and First Lady Obama issued a call to service in our own local communities as part of a greater movement saying:
“No force for change is more powerful than that of Americans who are making a difference in their communities. This September 11, and in the days, weeks, and months that follow, let us recommit ourselves to service, renew America’s promise, and work together as one people and one nation.”
In April 2009, Congress passed and the President signed The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act—the largest expansion of national service. Since then AmeriCorps experienced a 204% surge in applications. The Act included the first-time authorization and federal recognition of September 11 as a “National Day of Service and Remembrance” which this legislation fulfills.
This bill will now move to the Senate for their consideration and approval.
In order to find a volunteer opportunity on September 11 in your community, there are two useful websites:
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