24 Years Later: Remembering September 11 with the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Today marks the 24th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Nearly a quarter century later, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remains steadfast in its mission to commemorate, educate, and inspire.

With more than 100 million Americans born since the attacks—or too young to remember them—the Museum’s work has never been more vital.

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Beth Hillman, President and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, about the enduring significance of this anniversary and how the Museum continues to share stories of resilience and remembrance.

Hillman reflected on the courage, compassion, and unity that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks—and how those lessons continue to resonate with new generations. She emphasized the importance of connecting with students across the country, noting the Museum’s goal of reaching 20 million students by next year’s 25th anniversary through free digital resources and educational programming.

The Museum also continues to highlight the ongoing health struggles faced by survivors and first responders. Through its Memorial Glade and exhibits like Dust, Illness, and Advocacy After 9/11, it honors those who served and continue to live with the long-term impacts of that day.

A new exhibition of children’s artwork—created in the immediate aftermath of 9/11—further underscores the resilience of young people and the role of art in healing.

Looking ahead to the 25th anniversary, Hillman said the themes will center on remembrance and service, focusing on how families, survivors, and communities transformed grief into contributions that continue to shape the world today.

“The capacity of New York City to recover is a stand-in for the capacity of the world to recover from the most challenging things,” Hillman told Radio Catskill. “The fact that the World Trade Center is again a thriving hub of commerce and culture, anchored by a free and public memorial, is a positive message for moving ahead.”

Image: 9/11 Tribute in Light (Credit: cmart7327)