Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Donald M. Payne will join with all Americans in commemorating the tragic events of September 11, 2001, with a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Created by the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, the National Day of Service channels the powerful sense of unity, patriotism and shared purpose Americans felt in the wake of the 9/11 attacks into meaningful action in our communities.

Congressman Payne proudly supported the law, remarking: "That tragic day eight years ago shook and shocked our country, but in its wake we stood stronger and more united than before, putting aside political differences to unite behind a common challenge. I am honored to stand with the families of those who lost their lives that day, and with thousands of other Americans, in undertaking the crucial work of giving back to our communities in any way we can."

The National Day of Service and Remembrance is the culmination of several months of service projects—a crucial part of the Kennedy Act. Projects held in all fifty states and the District of Columbia included food drives, neighborhood cleanups and volunteer construction work. 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.

Payne noted that within days of taking over the majority, House Democrats took dramatic steps to keep Americans safe at home and abroad. Democrats passed and implemented the full package of recommendations of the bipartisan 9/11 Commission, and succeeded in passing a new GI Bill to better provide for veterans' education, increased service members' pay in the 2009 Defense Authorization and improved healthcare for female veterans through the Women Veterans Healthcare Improvement Act. Representative Payne also supported streamlining VA funding to ensure our veterans receive crucial health services without interruption.

"As we reflect on the heroes who lost their lives 8 years ago today and those who defend our country today at home and abroad, we clearly see that honoring them through our service and that showing gratitude to our veterans is more important than ever," said Payne. "I proudly continue to work with my House colleagues and President Obama to keep our nation secure and strong, and I encourage my constituents to join me this September 11 and in the days ahead in giving back to our community and honoring the memories of those who have already given us so much."