The European Commission introduced the concept on 12 September 2001, a day after the terrorist attacks in the United States. The commission, in agreement with the European Council and the European Parliament, agreed on a joint statement to condemn the attacks and designated 14 September 2001 as a day of mourning in member states and EU institutions. European citizens were asked to join in three minutes of silence to express their sincere and deepest sympathy for the victims and their families.