Reps. Crow & Perlmutter Continue Push to Designate July 20th as National Heroes Day on Ten-Year Anniversary of Aurora Theater Shooting

Press Release

Reps. Jason Crow (D-CO) and Ed Perlmutter (D-CO) today reintroduced a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to designate July 20th as "National Heroes Day." July 20th is the date of the horrific shooting which took place ten years ago today in Aurora, Colo. at a movie theater in which twelve lives were taken, seventy were wounded and hundreds suffered emotional trauma. The tragedy brought to light incredible heroism by the first responders and medical teams whose tireless efforts saved lives, those who carried the wounded to safety, and those who sacrificed themselves to save others -- specifically Jonathan Blunk (26); John Larimer (27); Matt McQuinn (27); and Alex Teves (24) whose lives were taken while shielding others during the shooting.

The resolution also seeks to recognize acts of bravery and courage demonstrated by individuals who have borne witness or been victim to countless other gun violence tragedies across the country, including the recent tragedies in Highland Park, IL, Uvalde, TX and Buffalo, NY.

"Ten years ago, everyday heroes sacrificed to protect victims of the Aurora theater shooting. In difficult times, it's often the first responders and plain-clothes heroes who come to our rescue. Today we thank them and honor their sacrifice on our behalf. In recognition of those heroes in our community and around the country, we mark July 20th as a day to honor the servant leadership of our fellow citizens," said Rep. Crow.

"As Fred Rogers famously said, "You will always find people who are helping.' As our country grapples with incidents of violence, chaos and tragedy, we must also remember the helpers and the heroes among us who bring selflessness, courage and bravery in times of need," said Rep. Perlmutter. "July 20th marks an incredibly painful day for our community, but from that dark day we also remember the heroes who answered the call to save lives and whose exceptional acts of courage provide light and hope for the future."

The National Heroes Day resolution was first introduced on July 20, 2020 and sought to also recognize the everyday heroes who came to the aid of others during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as medical professionals; law enforcement; emergency responders and the National Guard; frontline workers and essential personnel; food and grocery workers; teachers; journalists; and small business and community leaders; and those developing and administering the COVID-19 vaccines. This also includes every day heroes standing up for their communities during times of need such as natural disasters or other crises.

The goal of the resolution is to designate every July 20th as National Heroes Day to serve as a reminder for all of us to exhibit the same spirit of courage and service shown by everyday heroes by performing good deeds and engaging in community service or other charitable activities.

Perlmutter represented the community of Aurora, Colo. during the time of the movie theater shooting. Crow currently represents the 6th Congressional District which includes the City of Aurora. Cosponsors of the resolution include U.S. Reps. Joe Neguse (CO-02), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Katie Porter (CA-45), and Brian Higgins (NY-26).

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