By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The 2025 inauguration of Donald Trump, the instigator of the January 6th Capitol riot, marks a stark contrast to the heightened security measures of Biden’s 2021 inauguration. Many Republicans initially condemned the violence but later downplayed or denied its severity, even excusing those who assaulted police. Trump plans to pardon those charged with crimes related to the event, further highlighting the partisan divisions surrounding the attack. This anniversary underscores the ongoing political gaslighting and the fragility of American democracy.
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Don’t forget what happened four years ago on January 6th. It’s a date etched in the memory of many, a day that witnessed an unprecedented assault on the foundations of American democracy. The events of that day—the storming of the Capitol building, the violence against law enforcement officers, the blatant attempts to overturn a legitimate election—should serve as a stark warning against the fragility of democratic institutions.
Don’t forget the sheer audacity of the attempt. It wasn’t a spontaneous outburst; it was a carefully orchestrated effort, fueled by misinformation and a deliberate campaign to undermine faith in the electoral process. The planning, the coordination, the sheer numbers involved—all point to a deeply troubling level of organization and intent.
Don’t forget the human cost. The physical injuries, the psychological trauma, the deaths—all are a testament to the real and lasting consequences of that day’s events. The lives lost and the lives irrevocably altered should serve as a constant reminder of the gravity of the situation.
Don’t forget the chilling indifference shown by some in the face of such blatant disregard for the rule of law. The downplaying of the events, the attempts to rewrite history, the normalization of violence—these are not signs of a healthy democracy. They are symptoms of a society grappling with a deep and dangerous division.
Don’t forget the ongoing threat. The fact that many involved in the events of January 6th remain unaccountable, and that similar sentiments persist within certain segments of society, signals a continuing threat to democratic stability. Ignoring this reality is a dangerous gamble.
Don’t forget the role of the media. The way the events of January 6th were covered, and continue to be covered, profoundly impacts public understanding and perception. It’s crucial that accurate and comprehensive reporting, coupled with rigorous fact-checking, remain central to the public discourse.
Don’t forget the implications for the future. If we fail to learn from the mistakes of the past, we risk repeating them. The events of January 6th should serve as a potent lesson in the importance of vigilance, responsible citizenship, and unwavering commitment to democratic values.
Don’t forget that January 6th wasn’t an isolated incident. It was the culmination of a long process of political polarization, the spread of disinformation, and the erosion of trust in established institutions. Addressing these underlying issues is crucial to preventing future events of similar magnitude.
Don’t forget the parallels between January 6th and other historical events, both within the United States and abroad. The lessons learned from these events should not be confined to the dusty pages of history books; they should inform our actions in the present.
Don’t forget the importance of personal responsibility. Each individual has a role to play in safeguarding democracy. This includes engaging in informed political discourse, actively combating misinformation, and holding those who violate the law accountable for their actions.
Don’t forget the need for unity and reconciliation. While acknowledging the severity of the events of January 6th, it’s crucial to work towards healing the divisions within society. This will require dialogue, empathy, and a shared commitment to building a more just and equitable future.
Don’t forget the power of collective action. The defense of democracy is not the responsibility of any single individual or institution. It requires the active participation of citizens from all walks of life.
Don’t forget the importance of remembering. Forgetting the events of January 6th would be a grave mistake. Remembering allows us to learn from the past, to strengthen our institutions, and to safeguard our democracy for future generations. The lessons of January 6th must be heeded. The threat to democracy remains real, and vigilance is paramount.