Opinion: Witnessing the Violence and Racism of January 6th
Former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn reflects on the harrowing events of the Jan 6 insurrection, expressing how the disturbing brutality and racism he witnessed shook him to his core However, his unwavering commitment to safeguarding our democracy has only grown stronger, leading him to make the courageous decision to run for Congress
Harry Dunn, a former US Capitol police officer and candidate for the US House representing a district in Maryland, shares his own views in this commentary. Read more opinion at CNN.
For 15 years, I had the privilege of working at the US Capitol and finding inspiration in its stunning Rotunda, a place so breathtaking that it left me in awe every single day.
Harry Dunn
Photograph by Leigh Vogel
Three years ago, in the very same building that had once inspired awe in me, I found myself surrounded by an overwhelming mixture of sweat, screams, anger, fear, and other intense emotions and experiences.
The turmoil and violence that erupted at the Capitol, a place I had pledged to safeguard, deeply shook me. The wounds suffered by me and my courageous colleagues during that violent attack are still healing. But my dedication to securing the strength of our democracy has only grown stronger. This is why I've made the decision to run for Congress.
Capitol Police officers and Metropolitan Police officers engaged in desperate hand-to-hand combat with rioters on January 6, 2021, as the Capitol was under a full-scale siege. Those who took part in the assault against the Capitol used a variety of weapons against the defending officers: Flagpoles were wielded as spears and metal bike racks, torn apart, were used as clubs.
Former President Donald Trump, a Republican presidential candidate, speaks at the Pray Vote Stand Summit at the Omni Shoreham Hotel on September 15, 2023 in Washington, DC. The summit showcased several 2024 Republican Presidential candidates presenting their platforms to conservative audience members. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
Opinion: The Supreme Court could correct Mitch McConnells huge mistake
Several police officers who fought with me were in agony from the injuries sustained while battling the attackers. Numerous officers were temporarily blinded and coughing due to chemical irritants being sprayed in their faces. Black officers, including myself, also endured verbal assaults with racial epithets, in addition to the physical blows.
The scars we carry, both physical and emotional, continue to weigh heavily on us, serving as a constant reminder of the vulnerability of our democratic institutions. The racial undertones of some of the attacks were deeply troubling, resurrecting a dark past that so many of us denounce and strive to distance ourselves from.
Having defended our Capitol for fifteen years as a patriotic American, I find it baffling that there isn't unanimous support for justice and accountability. The increasing backing for former President Donald Trump, the catalyst of the violence we witnessed that day, is truly disheartening.
"I never want to return to the horrors of January 6that, for me, is the urgency of the upcoming election," writes Harry Dunn.
Mostafa Bassim/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
It is appalling to see individuals who participated in the attack against our democracy now declaring their intention to run for office within the institutions they defiled. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to elect leaders who respect and prioritize our democratic institutions and the well-being of our nation. Since January 6th, Republican extremists have retracted their weak rebukes of the former president and are openly questioning the reality of the insurrection, attempting to erase the events of that day and openly embracing conspiracy theories.
Sign up for our complimentary weekly newsletter now!
Sign up for CNN Opinions newsletter
Join us on Twitter and Facebook
I am committed to preventing a repeat of the events of January 6th, and that is exactly why the upcoming election is so urgent in my eyes. We need to heed the lessons of the past, acknowledge our vulnerabilities, and actively work to fortify our democratic foundations. The harrowing experience of that dark day has only strengthened my resolve to bring about meaningful change and guarantee that such an attack never occurs again.
In pursuit of this cause, I have made it my personal mission to share my story, speak truth to power, and ensure that history does not repeat itself. This is why I recently retired from the police force and announced my campaign to run for Congress in Maryland's Third Congressional District.
Throughout my career, I've had the honor of engaging with numerous elected officials, congressional staff, as well as visitors from around the globe at our nation's Capitol. My daily interactions serve as a constant reminder of the United States' role as a protector of democracy. I remain dedicated to holding responsible those who pose a threat to our democratic principles and ensuring that the events of Jan. 6 are a grim and isolated chapter in our nation's history.
