Senate Passes Peters, Kennedy Bipartisan Resolution Designating Patriot Week

Press Release

The U.S. Senate yesterday passed U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and John Kennedy's (R-LA) bipartisan resolution designating September 11th through September 17th as Patriot Week. Cofounded by Judge Michael Warren of Oakland County, Michigan, Patriot Week would honor the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks, celebrate Constitution Day on the 17th and encourage students to delve deeper into American history.

"Patriot Week is an important way to encourage everyone to engage in civics, learn more about the events that shaped our history, and recognize the values and freedoms that define who we are as Americans," said Senator Peters. "Particularly in these difficult times, it's important that everyone reflect on the spirit of America. It is that spirit that has guided our nation through difficult periods in our history -- and it is that same spirit that will allow us to persevere through today's challenges. I am thankful for all of Judge Warren's efforts to spearhead this movement, and I was proud to partner with him and Senator Kennedy to pass this important resolution."

"The first responders and other heroes who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001 exemplify the American spirit. We must always reflect on their sacrifice and on the reverence for life and liberty anchored in our Constitution. Patriot Week helps tell America's story, a story that we can't afford to forget," said Kennedy.

"We are deeply appreciative of this effort by Senators Peters and Kennedy to ensure that the Patriot Week resolution was passed for a second time by the United States Senate. Little did my daughter and Leah and I expect that when she pounded on the table as a 10 year old demanding a new celebration of America, that it would spread nationally," remarked Patriot Week co-creator Judge Michael Warren. "We ask that all Americans join this grassroots effort in renewing the spirit of America by coming together behind what unites us: our Founding First Principles, great patriots, vital documents and speeches, and flags that make America the greatest nation in world history."

"In this very divisive time, we can too often overlook what unites all of us as Americans. Patriot Week is a nonpartisan initiative that helps us embrace the Constitution and our foundational First Principles that we should all support," said Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack of the Michigan Supreme Court. "By deepening our appreciation for the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the struggle for equality, the rule of law, and our unalienable rights, Patriot Week is sorely needed to help renew the spirit of America."

Through the advocacy of Judge Warren and his organization, over ten states have officially recognized Patriot Week with official gubernatorial proclamations and legislative resolutions. Peters, is a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and he volunteered to serve again after the attacks on September 11th.

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