9/11 Anniversary: Reflecting on Lives Lost and Politics at Ground Zero
On September 11, the United States solemnly remembered the lives lost and forever changed by the tragic events of 9/11. This year’s anniversary carried additional weight as it coincided with the presidential campaign season. President Joe Biden, former President Donald Trump, and Vice President Kamala Harris all stood together at ground zero, where the World Trade Center once stood.
The timing of the anniversary ceremony provided a poignant backdrop for the first-ever debate between Harris and Trump, which took place the previous night. Despite their political differences, the two candidates put aside their rivalry and paid their respects at the hallowed ground. Biden and Trump even shook hands, a gesture facilitated by former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
However, amidst the political atmosphere, the focus remained on the victims and their families. Cathy Naughton, a relative of one of the firefighters who lost their lives, expressed the ongoing pain and raw emotions that persist twenty-three years later. For the families, the anniversary serves as a reminder to always remember and honor those who perished.
Organizers of the anniversary ceremonies have long made an effort to keep the focus on the victims, rather than the politicians in attendance. In the past, politicians have been mere observers, while relatives of the victims read their names aloud. Korryn Bishop, who lost her cousin, emphasized the importance of politicians being present for the right reasons—out of genuine care and respect, not for political gain.
For President Biden, this marked the last September 11th of his term and potentially his political career. He, along with Vice President Harris, later attended ceremonies in Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon—two other sites where the hijacked planes crashed. Meanwhile, Trump visited the Flight 93 National Memorial in rural Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
The attacks on September 11, 2001, claimed the lives of 2,977 people and left thousands of families grieving. The impact of the tragedy extended beyond the immediate loss, reshaping U.S. foreign policy, domestic security practices, and the mindset of many Americans. In response to the attacks, the United States launched the Global War on Terrorism, leading to military invasions in Afghanistan and Iraq. These operations resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Afghan and Iraqi civilians, as well as thousands of American troops, making Afghanistan the site of the country’s longest war.
As the complex legacy of 9/11 continues to evolve, communities across the nation have developed their own remembrance traditions. These range from wreath-laying ceremonies and flag displays to marches and police radio messages. Volunteer projects also play a significant role on this day, as Congress has designated September 11th as both Patriot Day and a National Day of Service and Remembrance.
At ground zero, the focus has shifted over the years. Initially, elected officials and candidates read poems and excerpts from the Declaration of Independence. However, since 2012, the National September 11 Memorial and Museum decided to limit the ceremony to relatives reading the victims’ names. While politicians and candidates can still attend, the emphasis remains on the personal tributes and reflections of the families affected.
The 9/11 anniversary has occasionally become a platform for political messages, with some relatives expressing their concerns about national security, the politicization of the attacks, and individual officeholders. However, the majority of readers stick to honoring their loved ones and sharing personal stories. Increasingly, these readings come from children and young adults who were born after the attacks but have been impacted by the loss of a parent, grandparent, aunt, or uncle.
As the nation continues to grapple with the legacy of 9/11, it is crucial to remember the lives lost and the ongoing impact of that tragic day. The anniversary serves as a reminder not only to honor the victims but also to reflect on the unity and resilience that emerged in the face of adversity.
