Editorial

Sixteen years later, 9/11 still hurts

Posted

The anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks is approaching as our country is convulsed by political, social and economic upheaval.

There is plenty of work to do on these fronts, but it is important to pause this month to reflect on the tragedy that struck our nation more than a decade and a half ago.

Instead of fighting among ourselves, we should be remembering and honoring the thousands of lives lost on that horrible day 16 years ago. It was, and remains, a personal tragedy for those living in New York City and Long Island, because so many of the victims of the World Trade Center attacks were from our towns, villages and neighborhoods.

Many survivors of that awful day continue to suffer. Families that lost loved ones are still coping. Our grief is always with us. But we must remain vigilant against terrorism while renewing our dedication to our collective humanity.

Freedom of religion is so important to our American way of life that the Founding Fathers made it the first part of the First Amendment to the Constitution. The amendment begins: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” Allowing the fear instilled in the country on Sept. 11 to metastasize into a hatred and distrust of millions of American Muslims — like any other marginalized group in America — only erodes the ideals the terrorists want to destroy.

Let’s take this opportunity to recommit ourselves to decency. Suffering anywhere leads to suffering everywhere. The wounds inflicted on Sept. 11, 2001, may never fully heal, but we can be compassionate neighbors, family members and friends in spite of the gruesome memories we all hold of that horrible morning.