Hispanic Federation Statement on the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks

Today is a somber anniversary for America. Twenty years ago, on a crisp September day, terrorists attacked the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and attempted to strike the Capitol. The attacks claimed nearly 3,000 lives, injured tens of thousands, and left deep traumas – both physical and emotional –that will last lifetimes. As an organization headquartered in Lower Manhattan, many of our staff witnessed and experienced great tragedy that day. It is clear as we look back that no event in our past more pained and more shaped us.

In the intervening years, as we have responded to other national tragedies and disasters, we have never forgotten how New Yorkers and Americans from all across our nation came together to help, to mourn, and to rebuild. This is the lesson of 9/11 that we remember always. How unity is a more powerful force than evil and how a united people can overcome any challenges. Two decades after September 11th, we remain deeply inspired by the first responders and others who gave so much – in some cases, their lives – to help their fellow Americans.

On behalf of the entire Hispanic Federation family, we extend our wishes for comfort and peace to all those who suffered deep personal losses on September 11th. We reaffirm our commitment to continue to help those in greatest need of support and hope. And we recommit ourselves to the work of justice, liberty, and unity that is at the center of our national character.