Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2021

August 9, 2021

As we approach the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we must never forget the enduring pain of the families and loved ones of the 2,977 innocent people who were killed. For them, 9/11 was not only a national and international tragedy, it was a personal devastation. For 20 years, children have grown up without parents. Husbands and wives have had to find a way forward without their partners in life. Brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, have celebrated 20 years of birthdays, family gatherings, and milestones, all with a hole in their hearts. I know well the all-consuming grief of losing someone you love so suddenly. I can only imagine the added pain these families have endured, spending 20 years pursuing accountability and justice.

As I promised during my campaign, my administration is committed to ensuring the maximum degree of transparency under the law and to adhering to the rigorous guidance issued during the Obama-Biden administration on the invocation of the state secrets privilege. In this vein, I welcome the Department of Justice's filing today, which commits to conducting a fresh review of documents where the Government has previously asserted privileges and to doing so as quickly as possible.

My heart and my prayers continue to be with the 9/11 families who are suffering, and my administration will continue to engage respectfully with members of this community. I welcome their voices and insight as we chart a way forward.

Categories: Statements by the President : September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Department of Justice filing to review records.

Subjects: Government organization and employees : Accountability and transparency, strengthening efforts; Defense and national security : Classified national security information; Terrorism : September 11, 2001, attacks.

DCPD Number: DCPD202100650.

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