WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) and Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-3) introduced the Patriot Day Act, a bipartisan bill to formally designate September 11th as a federal holiday—forever honoring the lives lost, the heroism displayed, and the unity and resilience that defined one of the most pivotal days in American history.
The attacks of 9/11, which stole nearly 3,000 lives, sought to divide us, but instead, they brought out the best of America—extraordinary courage, selflessness, and an unshakable resolve. For over two decades, Americans have observed this day in remembrance, yet it remains without the formal national recognition it deserves.
The Patriot Day Act amends Title 5 of the United States Code to establish September 11th as a permanent federal holiday, placing it alongside other federal holidays as a national day of reflection, service, and remembrance, and ensuring that every American, regardless of their profession or schedule, has the opportunity to observe this day properly.
“September 11th, 2001, was a day of profound tragedy—but also one that revealed the strength of the American people,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “In our darkest hour, we stood united. The Patriot Day Act is a reaffirmation of our national character, ensuring that the heroism, sacrifice, and unity of that day are never lost to time. Just as Memorial Day honors those who gave their lives in service and Independence Day marks the birth of our nation, September 11th deserves the same national recognition. By making it a federal holiday, we ensure that future generations will always come together to honor the lives lost, reflect on the courage displayed, and renew our vow to never forget.”
“The Patriot Day Act recognizes that September 11, 2001 changed us forever. Our goal with this legislation is to let us never forget the pain and anguish that was visited upon us on that day. Let us never forget the extraordinary valor and selflessness of our first responders. Let us never forget the unbreakable spirit of unity and harmony that defined the weeks and months that followed that fateful day. And above all, let us rededicate ourselves to upholding the enduring dream and promise of America,” said Rep. Suozzi.
Read the full text of the bill here.
As Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, Fitzpatrick and Suozzi champion commonsense solutions that bring Americans together. The Patriot Day Act is a reminder that when we focus on what unites us, rather than what divides us, we honor not only the legacy of 9/11 but also the fundamental promise of America.
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