United States Capitol Historical Society

Democracy is Stronger Than Terror / U.S. Capitol

Democracy is Stronger Than Terror

 
January 6, 2021
3:22 PM EST

 

The United States Capitol Historical Society is shocked and heartbroken by today’s violent disregard for American values and our Constitution. The U.S. Capitol is more than a building – it is the embodiment of American democracy and our way of life. We are a nation of laws, and the peaceful transfer of power is among the most fundamental hallmarks of our Constitutional republic.

Those who enable the malicious forces opposed to these principles betray the foundation upon which they stand. Our system has been tested before by those willing to suppress the will of the majority, but democracy is stronger than terror. Now is the time for every citizen to stand up and move to respect the will of the people as demonstrated in their vote.

 
January 13, 2021

This week the flag outside our offices in the VFW Building next to the Hart Senate Office Building flies at half-staff to honor United States Capitol Police (USCP) Officer Brian Sicknick, who lost his life defending the Capitol against the insurrection on January 6th, 2021. The United States Capitol Historical Society (USCHS) joins the Congressional community in the hope that his murderers are brought to justice. We are keenly aware that grief cannot be adjudicated, and we pray that his family and loved ones find comfort and peace in time.

As our understanding of the situation develops, we learn that there were serious security planning failures. Sadly, there are allegations that some officers may have been complicit in the uprising. We trust the Congressional investigation to get to the truth and provide appropriate consequences. At the same time, we learn of acts of courage undertaken by officers defending our democracy. A dramatic example is the quick thinking and personal courage displayed by Officer Eugene Goodman of the USCP which bears special recognition. Officer Goodman recognized in a split second that the violent mob was just yards away from the unsecured Senate floor, and chose to lure them away from the vulnerable chamber by using himself as a decoy. The distraction lasted just long enough for the entrance to be secured. It is distressing to imagine what might have happened had he not thought and acted so quickly and bravely. Clearly Officer Goodman met the moment with honor.

We wish a quick recovery to all of the USCP and Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers who suffered injuries as they put their patriotism above their personal safety to protect the Capitol. We are grateful for their sacrifice and the service of all who defend our constitutional government.

Most of all, we will continue our work to demonstrate that democracy is stronger than terror.

Want to Support Civic Education?

We believe that every student deserves an education about our nation’s history, that inspires them to be the best citizens they can be, no matter their background. Our “We the People” Constitution Tours™ provide immersive educational experiences for eighth-grade students from D.C. Title I schools, ensuring that students from historically underserved communities can explore the foundations of our democracy firsthand. During the program, students visit important sites related to the Constitution including the George Mason Memorial, the National Archives, the U.S. Capitol Building, and The People’s House: A White House Experience. As the cost of providing these tours continues to rise, your donation will help cover essential expenses, including transportation, lunches, knowledgeable tour guides, and educational materials.

  • A $111 donation covers all expenses for one student, covering all costs associated with the tour.
  •  
  • $325 provides lunches for 25 students during their trip, ensuring they stay energized and engaged.
  •  
  • A donation of $3,880 will sponsor an entire trip for one class.

“We the People,” speaks to the freedoms and responsibilities inherent in the Constitution of the United States of America. For Jim and me, it has been of the greatest importance that all citizens have an understanding of the democratic process and rule of law in order to be active participants in the form of self-governance laid out by the Constitution and Bill of Rights. I believe that my support in Jim’s name of the “We the People” tours is essential for the future of our country.

– Mrs. Penny Morrill on why she supports the “We the People” Constitution Tours

Support Civic Education in 2025

Join us in our mission to educate, inspire, and encourage informed civic participation. By becoming an annual member, your support funds vital programs such as the ‘We the People’ Constitution Tour for DC students, free resources and lesson plans for teachers, and our series engaging virtual and in-person public history events. Together, we will preserve Congress’s history and empower citizens to influence the future of our democracy.

Join Today!

Help preserve and share the history of democracy with a year-end donation! Join as a member today and enjoy unique benefits—all while contributing to our mission of preserving history and promoting civic education.

Donations received by midnight tonight or checks postmarked on or before December 31, 2024, will be applied to the 2024 tax year.