This morning, our SFI community woke with heavy hearts. The events at the U.S. Capitol last night have cast a shameful, disturbing shadow on the very core of our democracy. We condemn this failed insurrection, and we reassert our determination to advance strong national security, and free and fair elections.
As Acting Secretary of Defense Miller reiterated in his statement last night, when United States services members sign on the dotted line, they swear “to defend the constitution and our democratic form of government.” These failed insurrectionists are not patriots. On the contrary, their violence interrupted the very sacred democratic process that our loved ones in uniform serve to defend.
We remain concerned about the permanent ripple effects these events will have on America’s standing in the world, as well as foreign pro-democracy advocates who look to the United States for inspiration. Our country succeeds when we set a strong example here at home of robust elections, the sanctity of democracy, and peaceful transitions of power. Yesterday’s events erode that example and undermine both the safety and mission of American service members abroad.
Finally, we would be remiss if we did not also take this opportunity to bear witness to the clear double standard in how law enforcement has responded to demonstrators depending on the color of their skin. Now is the time for accountability. If violent insurrectionists are not prosecuted for their actions, this will pose an ongoing threat to national security.
We call on the President and Members of Congress from both parties to decry this insurrection, stand up for the ideals of our democracy, and demand the prosecution of all those responsible.