How Do People Celebrate the Anniversary of 9/11?

The anniversary of 9/11 is celebrated in a number of ways.

The events of September 11, 2001 will go down in history as a devastating blow to the United States. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives when New York City's World Trade Center was destroyed by terrorists, along with attacks at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. What many fail to realize is that citizens from countries all over the world were affected by the tragedy. In the towers themselves, citizens from 90 different countries lost their lives. The anniversary of this tragic day is celebrated in a number of ways all over the world.

Patriotic Displays

Flying and displaying the American flag shows caring and concern for those affected by 9/11 and for the U.S. Government agencies in the United States have made it a practice to honor the memory of the deceased by flying their flags at half mast for the day. Many professional and and amateur sports teams wear American flags on their uniforms for the day out of respect.

Religious Ceremonies

Based on the fact that so many different people were lost during the events of 9/11, members of many different religions were affected. Churches gather to pay their respects and to pray for those lost. Religious observances in honor of 9/11 are solemn and somber events. Each religion honors those lost in its own way by following the guidelines of the particular church and religion.

Community Gatherings

Community gatherings can be planned to celebrate the memories of those lost on 9/11. Communities gather in public places such as parks and public buildings to remember the events of the day. Speeches can be given by community leaders and people directly affected by the tragedy. Picnics, parades, concerts and even commemorative sports events, such as community softball games, are planned with a focus on bringing people together.

Charity Events

Charity events for a variety of different causes have been held on the anniversary of 9/11. Event planners may take advantage of the fact that they can gather a number of people together in one place on this particular day to create awareness and funds for something that they believe in while honoring the memories of the deceased. The goal is not to be opportunistic, but to honor the dead while helping to promote things that will help promote a more positive future. Walks for cancer research, auctions and concerts are ideas for fundraising on 9/11.

References

• 911 Memorial: Teaching Guides
• 911 Day: 9/11 Tribute Movement