In recognition of today, a somber remembrance of September 11, 2001.
My sons are too young to remember any of the events, panic or sorrow that had befallen our household that day. My aunt was on the 92nd floor of Tower One. My brother, a NY State Trooper on Executive Detail, was a responder. He survived…she did not. There are tens-of-thousands of stories of anguish, fear and survival, and how we preserve, record and tell these accounts requires immeasurable care and compassion, always honoring the delicate emotions of the families and friends who’ve carried on with the weight of their loss.
As we say never forget, let’s also keep in mind that there is a generation with no memory of 9/11. My dear friend, Matt Warshauer, professor of history at Central Connecticut State University enlightened me to that. With regard to 9/11, as a historian, I’ve struggled with the rules that govern historical research and interpretation, and I still can’t bring myself to visit the 9/11 Museum. All these years later, it’s still too raw. I am forever grateful to Matt. He gently helped me lean into the story and memories, helping me find ways to make peace with those dreadful days, illuminate the parable and reveal the lessons I needed to embrace to move forward.
Today, we send our heartfelt respects to every citizen who was lost and impacted by those early morning moments on September 11, 2001. We extend our sincerity, compassion and peace to you all for today and for the future.
Stay safe, stay strong,
Kathleen Maher,
Executive Director