HARRISBURG, PA − January 6, 2026 −Today, State Senator Art Haywood and Senator Jay Costa, leader of the Democratic Party, gathered in the main rotunda of the Pennsylvania State Capitol to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the January 6, 2021 insurrection and honor law enforcement officers who courageously defended democracy and the rule of law.
The senators were joined by several members of the Senate Democratic Caucus, Pastor Hank Johnson of Brethen at Christ US Church in Mechanicsburg and Lana Walmer of Market Square Presbyterian Church in Harrisburg.
The commemoration was held in memory of the fallen, in recognition of the officers who fled in the face of danger, and in gratitude for the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and their families in defense of the country’s democratic institutions. The event emphasized that respecting law enforcement and speaking truthfully about January 6 is not a partisan exercise, but a moral obligation rooted in respect for democracy, dignity and peace.
“The United States is a country of law, norms, democracy and justice. I have experience in law enforcement myself and I will never forget how officers ran towards danger when rioters attacked our nation’s capital five years ago.” said leader Costa. “By granting a full pardon to hundreds of people convicted in the attack on the Capitol, President Trump sent a message to law enforcement that he and his administration will choose when to have their backs, which is downright unacceptable. I commit myself and my entire caucus to restoring decency, dignity and peace in our halls of power as we mark the fifth anniversary of this terrible chapter in United States history.”
Senator Haywood emphasized that the purpose of the rally was to show the humanity, courage and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who stood up to defend democracy.
(*6*) he added. said Senator Haywood. “We encourage all Americans to join us in supporting the Capitol Police and all law enforcement agencies. Members of Congress, staff and guests who were in the capitol on January 6, 2021.”
“On this day five years ago, the integrity and strength of our democracy was tested by violence and destruction. As we remember this dark day in American history and those who lost their lives, it is important to condemn all political violence.” said Senator Vincent Hughes. “Let us disagree peacefully. Let us work together on solutions, even though we may disagree on the best way to achieve that goal. It is the responsibility of every leader in America to call out political violence for the poison that it is, and to encourage a commitment to peace and the rule of law.”
Senators Haywood and Costa stressed that January 6 should be remembered honestly and carefully, not as a political talking point, but as a moment to test the nation’s commitment to the rule of law. They both expressed hope that over time, history would fully honor those who protected democratic institutions and truthfully speak of the attempt to invalidate legal elections and undermine constitutional governance.
The commemoration ended with a call to recommit to democratic norms, reject political violence and uphold the dignity of law enforcement officers who continue to serve as guardians of public security and constitutional order.
###
The post Senators Haywood and Costa led January 6 commemoration honoring law enforcement who defended democracy appeared first on Pennsylvania Senate Democrats.
