People around the world are pausing today to remember the victims of the September 11th, 2001, terrorist attacks as New York City leads the commemoration on the 23rd anniversary. In Lower Manhattan, at the site where the Twin Towers once stood, families of the victims are gathering with local leaders for the annual remembrance ceremony. The focal point of the event is the reading of the names of the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in the attacks, a solemn tradition that serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of that fateful day.
The ceremony includes six moments of silence, observed at key times to mark when American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 struck the North and South Towers, when both towers fell, when American Airlines Flight 77 hit the Pentagon, and when United Airlines Flight 93 crashed in a field in Pennsylvania. These pauses are punctuated by the ringing of bells, evoking deep emotion from the families and officials in attendance.
Among those honoring the victims today are President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and former President Donald Trump, all of whom attended the ceremony, offering their support to the families and reflecting on the lasting legacy of 9/11. The presence of these political figures highlights the significance of the attacks in shaping national and global policy over the last two decades.
New Yorkers Commemorate in Their Own Ways
Across New York City, people are honoring the 9/11 victims in their own personal ways. Some visit the 9/11 Memorial Museum, where exhibits tell the story of that day and the years of recovery that followed. Others choose quieter reflections, lighting candles at home or leaving flowers at memorials. Over the years, September 11th has also evolved into a day of service for many, a way to channel grief into positive action. Organizations like Hunger Free America are marking the day by helping the food insecure in Queens, with volunteers contributing to a week of service in honor of those lost in the attacks.
One volunteer shared her thoughts on why serving the community on this day is so meaningful. “It’s a way of turning the pain of 9/11 into something hopeful. We can’t change the past, but we can honor those who were lost by helping others today.”
Generations Unite in Remembrance
At the memorial, multiple generations have come together to commemorate the day, with younger people who were not yet born in 2001 standing alongside survivors and first responders who lived through the tragedy. The resilience and determination to “never forget” resonates across age groups, with teachers, parents, and community leaders emphasizing the importance of educating future generations about the attacks and the heroic response that followed.
“Even though I wasn’t alive when it happened, I’ve grown up hearing about 9/11,” said a high school student attending the ceremony with her family. “Today, being here, I understand how important it is to keep their memories alive.”
The Tribute in Light and a City United
Later tonight, the Tribute in Light will illuminate the New York City skyline, casting two powerful beams of light into the night sky where the Twin Towers once stood. This annual display serves as both a symbol of remembrance and a testament to the city’s resilience.
The day of reflection and remembrance underscores the sense of unity that 9/11 fostered, as New Yorkers—and the world—continue to come together in collective grief, healing, and hope.
