McKinney Speaks on Attack on America
September 12, 2001
Mr. Speaker:
We stand here today, mere miles away from a tragedy that shook our nation and
left many shocked and angered by an act of unprecedented brutality on
America's shores.
As we emerge from the incomprehensible darkness into the light of this day
let us concentrate first, our prayer and mourning, our sadness and our
sorrow, for the victims of this unimaginable horror and then second send our
prayers, support, and heartfelt thanks to the courageous police,
firefighters, and medical staff who have made great sacrifices, and in some
cases given their lives, to care for the injured and take care of our dead.
And in our search for understanding and truth, we should remember that now,
especially, at this time of need, it is truly our reliance on a higher power
that will see us through.
And so, as we pray to our God, let us not forget that real security and real
peace come through justice.
That fear and prejudice divert us from our true and righteous cause.
That we are a country that stands for the rule of law.
The perpetrators of this crime can and will be dealt with. We must be
careful not to rush to judgment and must ensure that when we strike back we
deliver a blow against those truly responsible for these terrible crimes.
President Bush and Secretary of State Colin Powell have steered us on a
prudent course. Now is the time for us to trust their leadership.
Father Coughlin reminded us this morning of the guidance that is available to
us from God. He reminded us to build this and every day on a foundation of
justice; and to mourn our dead with acts of compassion.
My prayer for America today is that we heed Father Coughlin's call, that all
of us Americans will soon join together and rededicate ourselves to the fight
to defeat racism and to further justice at home and abroad, with an unbounded
commitment to freedom, justice, peace, and security for all.
|