Officers Sue Over Uninstalled Jan. 6 Memorial Plaque

Two police officers, Harry Dunn and Daniel Hodges, who defended the U.S. Capitol during the January 6, 2021 attack, have filed a federal lawsuit to compel the installation of a memorial plaque honoring law enforcement's efforts that day. The plaque, mandated by a 2022 law signed by President Biden, was required to be installed by March 2023 but remains in storage because House Speaker Mike Johnson has not authorized its placement. The officers argue that refusal to install the plaque reflects ongoing political divisions and efforts by some Republicans to minimize or revise the history of the Capitol attack, while Democrats have repeatedly pressured for the plaque's installation. Their lawsuit claims the inaction violates both the law and the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution and emphasizes the continuing personal and professional impacts on officers who served during the riot. The case also highlights broader debates over the legacy and public memory of January 6, as well as contrasting efforts to honor individuals connected to former President Trump. The officers are seeking a court order to enforce the law and formally recognize their service.