FLAGSTAFF, AZ — An assault on Congress as we saw this last week is an assault on democracy. The response to it laid bare the ongoing, tragic racial disparity and injustice in our nation. If those responsible are not held accountable, our democratic institutions at all levels could very well succumb to the same type of political violence — asphyxiating civic discourse and debate that are essential to the protection of every place, every community, and every value and ideal we hold dear.
Those who assaulted the Capitol and democracy itself should be held fully accountable. As should those who enabled the assault — including the president and recklessly irresponsible members of Congress. We look forward to the reckoning and healing that must come, and a redoubled commitment to justice, honesty, and decency.