Help us encourage Congress to support a Day of Honor & Respect — a national call to strengthen civility, unity, and mutual respect across America.
Dear Ellis Island Medalists,
A few weeks ago, I wrote to you about an important resolution before the United States House of Representatives calling upon our nation to designate September 17th, Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, as a “National Day of Honor and Respect.”
As America approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, I can think of no more fitting moment to reaffirm the enduring promise of E Pluribus Unum — Out of Many, One.
America has always drawn strength from those who believed in her most deeply: those who arrived on these shores with faith, courage, determination, and a profound belief in freedom. This resolution honors them. It affirms that their sacrifices are remembered, their contributions are valued, and that this nation remains, as ever, the “shining city upon a hill” that President Reagan evoked in his historic 1989 Farewell Address to our nation.
In recent weeks, I have personally been visiting Capitol Hill, and I am pleased to share that our work is gaining meaningful momentum. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX) and Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY) have introduced H. Res. 1350, expressing support for a “National Day of Honor and Respect” to be recognized in conjunction with Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.
As Ellis Island Medalists, you represent an extraordinary network of leaders, patriots, public servants, philanthropists, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Your voices carry weight. Your relationships matter. If you have connections with members of Congress, civic leaders, community organizations, or others who may be willing to support this resolution, I ask you to consider lending your voice to this effort.
Whether through a personal call, a letter, an introduction, or simply helping us identify those who may be willing to stand with us, your support can help carry this resolution across the finish line.
There is no finer gift we could offer in America’s 250th year than a national day dedicated to honor, respect, unity, and gratitude. And there is no finer community than the Ellis Island Medalists to help advance that message.
I, along with the entire team at the Ellis Island Honors Society, stand ready to assist in any way necessary. Thank you for your consideration, your continued support, and your enduring commitment to the values that define both the Medal and the nation we are privileged to serve.
With profound gratitude and highest regard,
