President Joe Biden gave a speech on Sunday recognizing the hundreds of individuals who died in the 9/11 attacks, promising to “preserve the memory of all those beautiful lives stolen from us” and emphasizing the importance of “standing up for democracy.”
“I’m honored to be here with you again to share the solemn rite of remembrance, and think on all that was lost in the fire and ash on that dreadful September morning,” Biden said.
Sunday commemorates the 21st anniversary of the terrorist attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people. Three hijacked planes hit the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on that day, while another plane meant to hit another government facility in Washington, D.C. crashed in Pennsylvania.
Biden referred to a speech given by Queen Elizabeth II around the time of the attacks, saying she “pointedly reminded us, quote, ‘Grief is the price we pay for love.'”
In his speech, the president emphasized the significance of “democracy,” an approach he has used in the run-up to the midterm elections.
“It is not enough to speak up for democracy once a year or occasionally. “It’s something we have to do every day,” Biden explained. “So today is not just a day to commemorate, but also a day of renewal and resolution for each and every American and our love for our country.”
Biden told reporters before boarding the plane to Washington, D.C., that he has a “plan” for the families of those who died on 9/11.
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