Journey from Capitol Police Officer to Defender of Democracy with Harry Dunn and Patt Morrison
October 21, 2024 | Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn with Patt Morrision | A Harrowing Account of January 6 and Thoughts About January 2025 – Summary Prepared by JUDJ Team
In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, Harry Dunn, a former Capitol Police officer, shared how his life changed forever on January 6, 2021. Dunn, who served over 15 years on the Capitol Police force, had spent his career safeguarding the U.S. Capitol. But when a violent mob stormed the Capitol that day, his perspective on his job, on democracy, and on his duty as an American shifted dramatically. In a recent interview, Dunn shared his journey since that fateful day and his commitment to protecting democracy and holding those responsible accountable. His story reveals a remarkable transformation from someone who once viewed his role as “just a job” to an impassioned advocate for democracy and justice.
A Career in Public Service with a Newfound Purpose
Harry Dunn joined the Capitol Police in his mid-twenties, seeking a stable career with good pay and benefits. For years, he viewed his position primarily as a job that allowed him to provide for his family and build a future. He was there to ensure the safety of lawmakers and visitors to the Capitol, regardless of their political affiliations or beliefs. “I protected Republicans, I protected Democrats,” he recalls, seeing his duty as a service to all Americans. But after January 6, Dunn felt a personal responsibility to defend the country and its democratic values beyond the traditional role of a Capitol Police officer.
Witnessing the events of that day left him questioning what it truly meant to serve and protect. “They took a side; they attacked me,” Dunn said of the insurrectionists, many of whom were motivated by falsehoods and divisive rhetoric. What had once been “just a job” was now deeply personal for Dunn, and he felt called to do more than he ever imagined as a public servant.
Defending the Truth Amid Denial and Deflection
In the aftermath of January 6, Dunn saw attempts by some political figures to downplay or distort the events of that day. Some, including politicians he and his colleagues had protected, trivialized the insurrection, calling it “a peaceful protest.” These characterizations troubled Dunn, who was on the front lines and witnessed the physical and emotional toll on himself and his fellow officers.
Dunn’s decision to speak out about his experiences came with risks, especially as he remained on the Capitol Police force. His commitment to defending the truth led him to testify in court cases involving January 6 defendants and to publicly counter misinformation. The backlash was swift—Dunn faced disciplinary measures and criticism from certain public figures, who attempted to discredit him. However, Dunn’s resolve only strengthened. “If Donald Trump is going to keep talking about January 6, then I’ll be on the other side, standing up for democracy,” he said.
Activism Inspired by John Lewis’s Legacy of “Good Trouble”
The late congressman John Lewis became an inspiration for Dunn as he weighed the personal costs of his activism. Lewis’s philosophy of “good trouble”—speaking out and pushing back, even at great personal cost—resonated with Dunn as he made the decision to share his story and seek justice for those affected by January 6. Lewis’s example, along with Dunn’s own observations of divisiveness within the Capitol and across the nation, convinced him that speaking out was not only necessary but his moral duty.
To channel his passion into action, Dunn founded the Democracy Defenders PAC, aimed at supporting candidates who stand for democratic values. He even ran for Congress, hoping to continue his fight for accountability from within the halls of government. Although he ultimately lost his primary, he remains committed to promoting truth and integrity in public service.
A Call to Action for Americans Who Believe in Democracy
Dunn’s hope for the future is grounded in his belief that the majority of Americans value decency, empathy, and civic duty. Though he recognizes the existence of divisive and harmful rhetoric, he believes that most people share a desire for a just and inclusive society. “It’s easy to let the loud voices of hate dominate the conversation,” he said. “But I know there are more people out there who care about each other, who want the best for our country.”
This commitment to hope, despite the trauma of January 6, keeps Dunn focused on his mission. He has spent the months since the insurrection traveling the country, campaigning for candidates who uphold democratic values and engaging with communities to encourage civic participation. For Dunn, democracy requires vigilance and action from everyday Americans, not just elected officials. He urges all citizens to use their voices and votes to ensure the survival of democracy.
Harry Dunn’s story is a powerful reminder that defending democracy is not just the duty of those in public office. It’s a responsibility that extends to everyone, and it requires courage, resilience, and a willingness to stand up for what is right. Through his words and actions, Dunn continues to honor his role as a protector of democracy and an advocate for accountability.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.