Hello from Erin and Yi!
As New Yorkers, we continue to hold a deep reverence for the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. This time of year is often overwhelming with emotion, and we understand the weight it can carry. To help provide some proactive focus, we're sharing with you some of the ways we'll be commemorating 9/11 in 2024.
1. Watch a Documentary Several new and insightful documentaries are being released this year. For 2024, Netflix is premiering The Turning Point: 9/11 and the War on Terror, which explores both the events of that day and the aftermath that shaped global politics. Additionally, Apple TV+ will air 9/11: Inside the President's War Room, a documentary offering a behind-the-scenes view of how U.S. leaders responded to the crisis.
If you are open to these kinds of reminders, also consider The National Geographic Channel for their recurring programming during this time, including the documentary 9/11: One Day in America. As always, please use discretion when choosing what is best for you and your family. Personally, we won’t be showing documentaries to our children, though they are aware of the significance of the day.
2. Observe a Moment of Silence As always, six moments of silence are observed to mark significant events on that tragic day:
In New York City, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum will once again lead the annual ceremony, with family members reading the names of victims and observing the moments of silence. The program will begin at 8:30 a.m., and bells will toll at houses of worship to mark each moment.
3. View the "Tribute in Light" The Tribute in Light remains an iconic annual tradition, lighting up the sky as a powerful visual tribute. This public art installation will be visible from dusk to dawn on the night of September 11th, shining two powerful beams of light into the sky from the rooftop of the Battery Parking Garage near the 9/11 Memorial. These lights, visible up to 60 miles away, evoke the Twin Towers and symbolize the resilience of New York City.
If you're in the area, we highly recommend taking a moment to view the installation in person. It’s a meaningful opportunity for reflection and remembrance.
4. Run to Remember Communities across the country continue to host events like the September 11 Memorial Stair Climbs and 9/11 Hero Runs. These events are opportunities to honor the first responders, military personnel, and everyday heroes who made sacrifices during and after 9/11. The Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk in New York City is also taking place this year, paying tribute to the bravery and spirit of firefighter Stephen Siller and all first responders.
If you're interested in participating, check out the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation for more information on stair climbs across the nation, or find a 9/11 hero run near you.
5. Talk with Friends and Family One of the most meaningful ways to commemorate 9/11 is simply by talking—sharing stories, listening to others, and keeping the memory alive. Whether you’re speaking with someone who lived through it or explaining the significance of the day to a younger generation, these conversations help ensure that we never forget.
Yi and I have raised our children with knowledge of 9/11, and we've walked the memorial and viewed the "Tribute in Light" as a family. We also have emergency plans in place as part of our ongoing commitment to preparedness, which helps our kids feel secure, especially when traveling.
If you're looking for help on how to explain 9/11 to your children, here are some resources that can guide you:
Thank you for reading and remembering with us. We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments—how do you commemorate 9/11?
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