Five years have passed since the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, an event that remains a pivotal moment in American political history. The chaos and emotion of that day continue to resonate across the nation, including in Utah, where individuals who participated in the events share their divergent experiences and reflections. For some, the day represents a moment of political turmoil; for others, it embodies a significant personal awakening. Jake Peart, a resident of Toquerville, Utah, reflects on the lasting impact of that fateful day. Having traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend a Trump rally, Peart found himself swept up in the fervor of the moment and, ultimately, entered the Capitol. “It’s a reminder of how crazy the world can get, and how divided we can be and still are,” Peart stated. This acknowledgment of division underscores his belief in the necessity of healing and understanding. Earlier this year, Peart was one of several individuals pardoned by former President Donald Trump, a decision that continues to stir debate. While Peart expresses a desire to let go of political animosities and embrace a more compassionate outlook, he recognizes the complexity of the situation. “I hope I love people more. That’s what I hope,” he shared. For Peart, the experience has led him to a broader understanding of the diverse perspectives that exist within the political landscape. “We get too tied up in demonizing all sides and everybody,” he added, emphasizing the need for individual consideration and empathy. In contrast, fellow Utah participant Brady Knowlton experienced the Capitol attack differently. Knowlton, who divides his time between Utah, Texas, and Mexico, viewed the events of January 6 through a distinctly different lens. “You may look at it as a riotous calamity. Others may look at it as a day that people were unsure that they were participating in self-government,” he explained. Unlike Peart, Knowlton has no regrets about his participation, vehemently describing the day as one filled with exhilaration. “Where I was that day, I had a blast. It was a great day. I felt very alive,” he recounted, suggesting that the experience validated his feelings about the state of democracy in America. Geoff Allen, chairman of the Washington County Democratic Party, provides a contrasting viewpoint. Living in St. George and having been a professor at the University of Utah during the Capitol incident, Allen recalls the challenge of discussing the events with students who struggled to comprehend the gravity of the situation. “I remember having a hard time explaining to students that what was happening was not normal,” he said. Allen believes that the general sentiment in Utah, particularly in areas like Washington County, does not align with Knowlton’s perspective. “I don’t think the average person looked at January 6 and said, ‘Oh, this is a good thing,’” he asserted, emphasizing the need for public acceptance of the outcomes of democratic processes. Despite their differing views on the events of January 6, Peart, Knowlton, and Allen share a common concern about the state of American unity in today’s political climate. “I think we need to set aside a lot of our political differences and we need to find the commonality that we possess as Americans,” Knowlton stated. Peart echoed this sentiment, expressing sadness over the lack of unity and compassion in society. “I’m sad that we aren’t unified,” he concluded, urging for a greater focus on mutual care and understanding. As the nation approaches the fifth anniversary of the January 6 attack, the reflections of these Utahns highlight the profound implications of that day. Their diverse perspectives offer a window into the complex emotions and beliefs that continue to shape the American political landscape. The ongoing discourse surrounding the events of January 6 serves as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in the pursuit of unity and understanding in a deeply divided nation. As these individuals navigate their own experiences, they contribute to a broader conversation about democracy, governance, and the necessity for dialogue in the face of discord.