Photo courtesy of HappySkrappy
On this anniversary of 9/11, we pause to remember. We remember those who lost their lives on that day 11 years ago. We remember the men and women who have proudly served in the US armed forces and government to protect the liberties and freedoms that we value so dearly. We remember and hold onto the positive spirit of unity and courage that brought people from all around the world together in the days following 9/11.
I remember the sudden realization that things were never going to be the same again.
9/11 has grown to represent a variety of different things to people. For many, it has come to define the Millennial generation—those who were born after 1980. The “9/11 generation” is used to characterize those who were not yet old enough to necessarily remember past wars or international conflicts with any clarity, but who were old enough to be significantly impacted by the events of 9/11. For many Millennials, 9/11 became a defining moment that would shape their young adult lives.
After 11 years, we are now seeing new reflections on how that day has affected the young minds and hearts of Millennials around the world. As this generation matures and evolves, so do their thoughts and feelings around this specific day.
For myself, a Millennial, and someone who was living in New York City at the time of the attacks, it is a seminal moment that I have carried with me. The feelings of fear, ignorance, and anger over that day have long since been converted into a sense of responsibility, caution, and a need to be more civically engaged.
A PBS News Hour feature on Youth Reflections from 9/11 prompted me to think about that day with the following questions:
- When you hear the term “9/11,” what is the first thing you think of? Why?
- What has changed in the world since 2001? How is your life different?
- How do you think the world would be different if 9/11 had never happened?
I encourage you will share with us your reflections and how these events have influenced you over the last 11 years.
We at the Case Foundation also hope you will get engaged in your local community as part of your reflection for the day. Here’s a list of ways to get involved in person and online.