Today marks 24 years since the attacks of September 11, 2001. In a matter of minutes, the world changed before our eyes. In the days that followed, we mourned loved ones, grieved for strangers, and faced an uncertain future. Yet a spirit of unity and compassion brought us together, and we made a solemn promise to never forget. Nearly a quarter century later, that mission endures as we work to share this sacred vow with a new generation.
This morning at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, victims’ family members will read aloud the names of the 2,983 people killed in the attacks on September 11, 2001, and in the World Trade Center bombing on February 26, 1993. annual commemoration will begin at 8:40 a.m., and I invite you to join us for this ceremony online.
The promise to never forget belongs to all of us. As we lead the city, the nation, and the world in remembrance, we hope our commemorative program adds to the personal ways you choose to honor those killed. Each of us plays a role in recalling the memory of each victim. Remembering their lives—alongside the courage of first responders, the dedication of rescue, recovery, and relief workers, and the resilience of survivors—helps us, and the 100 million Americans too young to remember 9/11, recognize the magnitude of the loss. It also reminds us of the scale of the bravery, compassion, and service displayed in response.
Many of us still vividly recall the remarkably clear blue sky on that day 24 years ago. With that in mind, I invite you to look up today and take a picture of your sky, wherever you are, whatever the weather. Take part in remembrance and post your photo on social media with the hashtags #RemembertheSky and #NeverForget911.