Missing Jan. 6 Plaque Honoring Law Enforcement Disappears from Capitol

In the lead-up to the fifth anniversary of the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, a significant plaque commemorating the heroism of law enforcement officials is missing from its designated location. Despite being mandated by law, the official plaque, which was meant to honor those who defended democracy during the insurrection, is believed to be in storage.

Missing Jan. 6 Plaque Raises Concerns

The absence of the plaque has sparked concern among members of Congress. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, has not publicly unveiled the plaque, and the Department of Justice is attempting to dismiss a lawsuit from police officers demanding its installation. The Architect of the Capitol has refrained from making comments due to ongoing federal litigation.

Congress Takes Action

In response to the plaque’s absence, around 100 lawmakers, primarily Democrats, have installed replica plaques outside their offices as a makeshift tribute. These replicas serve as a reminder of the events of January 6, 2021, and the sacrifices made by law enforcement during the attack.

• Over 140 law enforcement officers were injured during the attack.
• Five individuals died, including Ashli Babbitt, who was shot while attempting to breach the House chamber.
• Approximately 1,500 people have been charged in connection with the January 6 assault, marking one of the largest federal prosecution efforts in U.S. history.

Douglas Brinkley, a historian at Rice University, raises critical questions about how this event will be remembered in American history. He emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the Capitol attack’s implications for democracy.

A Struggle for Recognition

The commemorative plaque was approved by lawmakers in March 2022 but has yet to be installed due to a lack of clarity surrounding its implementation. The resolution expressed the U.S. government’s gratitude to the law enforcement officers who responded to the violence on that day.

Two officers who fought back against the mob have since filed a lawsuit claiming that Congressional inaction sends a message that their efforts were unworthy of recognition. They argue that this oversight allows for a distorted narrative of the events to persist.

Emergence of Makeshift Memorials

In light of the continued absence of an official memorial, the replicas have transformed the Capitol into a space of remembrance. Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland notes the urgency in educating newer generations about the implications of January 6 for U.S. democracy.

Despite partisan divides, some members of Congress remain committed to memorializing those who served. Representative Zoe Lofgren of California stresses the importance of acknowledging the brave actions of law enforcement, stating that they played a crucial role in protecting democracy.

Looking Ahead

While discussions concerning future commemorative efforts continue, the lack of a bipartisan initiative for memorial services reflects the ongoing divisions within Congress. As the anniversary approaches, Democrats plan to reconvene the Jan. 6 committee to address current threats to elections.

The situation surrounding the missing Jan. 6 plaque highlights the broader struggle to remember and contextualize a day that many believe posed a significant threat to the democratic framework of the United States.