Capitol Unveils Jan. 6 Police Tribute Plaque After 3-Year Delay
Visitors to the U.S. Capitol can now see a new plaque commemorating the bravery of law enforcement officers during the January 6, 2021, insurrection. Installed on March 7, 2026, this plaque marks the first official recognition of the violent events that transpired that day. Its placement comes three years after Congress mandated its installation.
Significance of the Capitol’s Jan. 6 Police Tribute Plaque
Located steps from the West Front of the Capitol, this tribute pays homage to the officers who faced overwhelming violence from a mob of supporters of then-President Donald Trump. The Capitol had approved a resolution for the plaque’s installation in January, following a unanimous Senate vote. House Speaker Mike Johnson had previously delayed the process, leading to public frustration and a lawsuit initiated by some officers.
Details of the Plaque Installation
- The plaque honors the officers who defended the Capitol on January 6, 2021.
- It is installed on the Senate side of a hallway near the West Front.
- A QR code is provided next to the plaque, linking to a document listing officers who responded to the attack.
- Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., played a crucial role in ensuring the plaque’s installation.
The plaque features a message from Congress expressing gratitude for the courage displayed by the officers. It reads, “Their heroism will never be forgotten.”
Challenges Surrounding the Tribute
Despite the completion of this tribute, not all agree on its adequacy. Officer Daniel Hodges, one of the plaintiffs in the related lawsuit, criticized the installation process as a “fine stopgap.” He argues that the original law required the plaque to be placed directly on the West Front, and it should list the names of the officers. Instead, only a separate document contains the names.
Hodges and fellow officer Harry Dunn assert that Congress’s actions suggest a “rewriting of history,” calling for a proper recognition of their service. The Justice Department has sought to have their lawsuit dismissed, claiming that Congress has already recognized law enforcement’s contributions through the approved plaque.
Context of the January 6 Capitol Events
The January 6 insurrection resulted in over 140 injuries among law enforcement as rioters forcefully breached the Capitol. The situation halted the congressional certification of Joe Biden’s election and led to significant federal prosecution, with over 1,500 individuals charged—a number that reflects one of the largest federal prosecutions in U.S. history.
As the political landscape evolves, the controversy surrounding the words and actions of those involved continues to provoke strong reactions. The recent installation of the Jan. 6 Police Tribute Plaque marks a small but significant step in recognizing the sacrifices made by law enforcement that day.
