Consider This from NPR: The Battle Over the Truth of January 6
Release Date: January 6, 2025
Introduction
On this episode of NPR’s "Consider This," host Ari Shapiro delves into the ongoing struggle to define and remember the events of January 6, 2021—the day a violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol as Congress was certifying the presidential election results. This episode explores the divergent narratives surrounding that day, the impact on American democracy, and the personal toll on those directly affected, particularly the family of Brian Sicknick, a Capitol Police officer who lost his life during the attack.
Background: The Events of January 6th
Ari Shapiro opens the discussion by contrasting the businesslike atmosphere of the January 6, 2025, electoral vote certification with the chaos of January 6, 2021. He recounts how Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the certification process, which was starkly ordinary in contrast to the violent attempt to disrupt it by supporters of then-President Donald Trump.
Divergent Narratives and Political Rhetoric
The episode highlights the stark differences in how January 6 is portrayed by various political figures. Shapiro notes that while Trump initially condemned the violence, he later downplayed the severity of the events. For instance, during a Univision town hall in 2024, Trump described the day as “a day of love” (01:34) and characterized his supporters' actions as “peacefully and patriotically” (01:34).
Conversely, Democrats like Senator Adam Schiff emphasize the violence and illegality of the attack. President Joe Biden reinforced this perspective in an op-ed, stating, “We cannot allow the truth to be lost” (03:35), highlighting an ongoing effort to preserve the historical record against what he describes as a relentless attempt to rewrite it.
Legal and Political Ramifications
Ruth Ben Ghiat, a historian at New York University, explains that unlike in other countries where similar attempts to disrupt democratic processes have led to the perpetrators being banned or imprisoned, in the U.S., the legal battles remain unresolved. Two state courts in Colorado have ruled that January 6 was an insurrection and that Trump bears responsibility, but these decisions have not been fully adjudicated at the federal level (05:55).
Trump’s recent statements indicate he plans to pardon many of those convicted for their roles in the events of January 6, further fueling the controversy (06:28). His intention to pardon such individuals within his first 100 days in office (06:28) underscores the deep divisions in how this day is interpreted and remembered.
Personal Impact: The Sicknick Family’s Story
A pivotal part of the episode focuses on the Sicknick family, who endured profound loss due to the events of January 6. Brian Sicknick, a Capitol Police officer, was pepper-sprayed by rioters and subsequently died from strokes deemed to be related to the trauma he experienced that day (12:23).
Family Testimonies and Emotional Toll
Aquilino Ganell interviews members of the Sicknick family, providing an intimate look into their grief and frustration. Brian’s brother, Craig Sicknick, shares the emotional devastation and the lasting impact of denial and revisionism surrounding January 6:
“I was in the middle of it and got soaked in pepper spray... then, not long after, the family got another message. Brian had collapsed in the Capitol” (11:07).
The family’s journey includes attending the sentencing of Julian Cater, the man convicted of assaulting Brian, where they faced the stark reality of their loss amidst a politically charged atmosphere (12:54). The Sicknicks argue that Trump’s rhetoric contributed to the environment that led to the attack, blaming him personally for Brian’s death:
“Absolutely.” – Kamala Harris (12:23)
“Certainly. Yes, definitely.” – Donald Trump (12:25)
Struggle Against Revisionism
The Sicknicks confront the narrative that seeks to portray the rioters as patriots. They express frustration over Trump’s refusal to publicly mourn Brian and his allies' attempts to sanitize the events:
“You do not want this fight.” – Donald Trump (06:50)
“When you are no longer interested in Brian's sacrifice... all the mementos seem even more important” – Kamala Harris (16:05)
Societal and Historical Context
Ruth Ben Ghiat draws parallels between the current attempts to rewrite January 6 and historical instances of revisionism, such as the backlash following the Reconstruction era. Sociology professor Simi adds that just as the post-Civil War period saw a struggle to maintain democratic ideals against rising authoritarianism, today’s efforts to reshape the narrative of January 6 could threaten the foundations of American democracy (08:44).
Community and Resilience
Despite the ongoing battle over the truth, the Sicknick family finds solace in the support from their community. Acts of kindness, such as condolences from strangers and ongoing support from Capitol Police colleagues, provide a beacon of hope amidst their grief:
“There are a lot of good people out there.” – Craig Sicknick (15:59)
Emotional and Psychological Impact
The episode delves into the emotional burden carried by the Sicknicks. Craig Sicknick describes how denial and misinformation have fueled his anger and transformed his interactions:
“I turn into a much angrier, crankier person. People don’t like me. I don’t care.” – Craig Sicknick (14:00)
Kamala Harris expresses empathy and concern for the mental health toll on the family:
“I cry just because.” – Kamala Harris (14:31)
Conclusion: The Future of American Democracy
The ongoing struggle to define the truth of January 6 has significant implications for the future of American democracy. The episode underscores the importance of confronting historical realities to prevent the erosion of democratic principles. As Senator Ruth Ben Ghiat warns, the revisionist narrative poses a threat similar to historical attempts to undermine progress towards equality and justice.
The personal stories, particularly that of the Sicknick family, serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of political division and misinformation. Their resilience and commitment to honoring Brian’s legacy highlight the enduring fight to preserve the integrity of American democracy.
Final Thoughts
Ari Shapiro closes the episode by emphasizing the critical need to maintain an accurate historical record of January 6 to safeguard the future of the nation’s democratic institutions. The episode calls listeners to reflect on the importance of truth and accountability in shaping a stable and just society.
This detailed summary captures the essence of the NPR "Consider This" episode, highlighting key discussions, personal narratives, and the broader implications for American democracy.