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Dear Sixth District Neighbor,

As summer comes to a close and the seasons begin to change, it’s a good moment to reflect on what it means to be American.

Last Monday, observing Labor Day, we honored the essential workers who keep our communities strong and recognized the dignity of a hard day’s work.

And this past Friday, we marked a more solemn occasion: the 25th anniversary of 9/11. A quarter century later, what stays with me most isn’t just the tragedy itself. It’s the first responders who selflessly ran toward danger. It’s the political leaders who came together to support the people of New York City at a moment when an attack of that magnitude on American soil seemed unimaginable. And it’s the neighbors who simply showed up for one another. And it was a tie of unity, patriotism, and shared values where we came together, irrespective of party, circumstance, or zip code. 

That spirit of America comes with responsibility. We are responsible not just for one another, but for the world in which we live. Recent findings about air quality in the aftermath of 9/11 remind us that many of the first responders and survivors who gave so much are still paying a price today. We owe it to those who serve our country to demand meaningful government standards that protect people - both in future emergencies and from the ongoing health consequences of that day. And, we owe it to our first responders and veterans that we have their back – today and  tomorrow. 

Being American isn’t an abstract idea. It’s showing up for one another. It’s looking out for your neighbor and caring about the community as a whole.

That’s the thread connecting Labor Day and 9/11-  we’re stronger when we take care of each other and respond with empathy, kindness, strength and character. 

Standing With Frederick

On Friday, September 4, a confrontation occurred between ICE agents and community members outside a home in Frederick following reports of an extended federal presence in the neighborhood.

What happened is deeply disturbing. No family should feel afraid in their own home or neighborhood. I am especially troubled by reports and videos showing federal agents using force against community members.

Federal law enforcement has a responsibility to carry out its duties lawfully and safely. The Frederick community deserves transparency, accountability, and answers.

My office has been in direct contact with local officials, public safety leaders, and community organizations and Team Maryland to call out these awful actions. I will continue working with them to determine what additional steps are needed and ensure the safety of Frederick residents remains our top priority. Constituents seeking assistance can contact my district office at (301) 926-0300 or through mcclaindelaney.house.gov.

Residents can review my Know Your Rights guide for information on their constitutional rights when interacting with ICE and available legal resources.

Honoring the 25th Anniversary of September 11
Twenty-five years ago, September 11th began as one of the most beautiful fall days I can remember. The sky over Georgetown was crystal clear blue and cloudless and was at home with three young children, watching television when I saw the second plane strike the World Trade Center. At that moment, I knew our country was under attack, and that our country would never be the same. 

Last week, I joined our military personnel, first responders, and community leaders at Fort Detrick to remember the lives stolen that day and honor those who answered the call. While the rest of us reached for our phones, firefighters, police officers, paramedics, service members, and ordinary citizens reached for their gear and ran toward danger.

Among those we remembered were Michael Carlo, Alan Linton Jr., Bill Ruth, and Lieutenant Commander Ron Vauk, each with deep ties to Frederick County. Their lives remind us that the story of September 11th is also one of extraordinary courage, service, and sacrifice.

The heroes of that day did not ask about anyone’s politics or background. They saw Americans in danger, and they acted. Twenty-five years later, we honor them by remembering that we are strongest when we are united by our shared values and our commitment to one another.

On this 25th anniversary, let us hold in our hearts the memories and honors of those we have lost. We will never forget.

Advancing Medical Research at NIH
Recently, I visited the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences in Rockville, where I met some of the brilliant scientists driving medical innovation in our region. Their groundbreaking work is helping turn scientific discoveries into treatments that can improve and save lives. 

I got to see some of the incredible technologies they use to make drug discovery faster and cheaper, from 3-D bioprinters to automated robots that can test thousands of drugs at once. The NIH team even surprised my team and me with incredible creations featuring the NIH logo, the U.S. Capitol, and my portrait created with one of their robots by replacing test samples with food dye!

NIH and NCATS support critical federal jobs and public-private partnerships, helping make Maryland a national leader in biotechnology. I will continue standing up for the scientists, researchers, and public investments that drive medical breakthroughs, strengthen our economy, national security and support our health and well being. 

Thank you to NCATS Director Dr. Joni Rutter, the entire NCATS team, and Dr. Mahesh Aitha for organizing and hosting such an informative visit.

College Tour
As schools are back into full swing my team and I have been working hard at compiling and scheduling a tour across the Sixth to visit as many higher education institutions as possible. From traditional four year bachelor programs to work training sites, all education is crucial and I hope that this tour will demonstrate that. 

Affordability and career opportunity is a huge issue for youth. Next week, my office will kick off the college and economic opportunity tour at Hood College on Monday, September 21. I look forward to speaking directly with students about college affordability, student debt, career opportunities, AI and how Congress can better support their futures.

Please note: The Hood College event is open to current college students and staff only. A valid student ID will be required at check-in. Follow along as we highlight the exceptional educational opportunities available across Maryland’s Sixth District.

Across the Sixth

Expanding Mental Health Services in Frederick

My team was honored to join Innovative Treatment Centers at the ribbon cutting of their new location! They are bringing much-needed access to mental health services in Frederick, and we thank them for strengthening our community. 

Celebrating 250 Years of Washington County

In addition, my team attended the 250th Anniversary of Washington County. This celebration was accompanied by the reveal and dedication of the brand new statue of General George Washington in front of the historic Andrew F. Wilkinson Courthouse on West Washington Street in downtown Hagerstown. Toby Mendez, the incredible sculptor behind this tribute, was raised in Washington County and has operated his studio near Boonsboro since 1988. The Sixth District is full of history, including being home to the first county in the U.S. to be named after our first president. 

Team McClain Delaney is Here for You

One of the most important responsibilities of my office is helping constituents navigate our federal requests and addressing their concerns. Understanding federal resources available for residents can sometimes be an overwhelming task. Our district office is here and pride ourselves on professionalism, persistence, and commitment to helping every constituent.

Whether you're dealing with the IRS, Social Security, Medicare, veterans' benefits, passports, immigration, or another federal agency, we are here to help. If you need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us. 

As always, thank you for staying engaged, and reach out to my office if there’s any issue we can assist you with. Our doors are always open to you.

Warmest regards, April McClain Delaney Member of Congress