9/11: Could We Ever Forget?

Twenty-four years ago, tragedy struck on American soil in the September 11th terrorist attacks. As the years pass, we’ve come to reflect on the severity of 9/11 and the lives we lost on that fateful day. Here at Minarets High School, we asked multiple members of the faculty three questions to better understand their perspective on 9/11.

The questions we asked were simple, yet open-minded and profound:

• Where were you when it happened? 

• What do you remember about life immediately after?

• How do you think it affects society today?

Everyone we interviewed had a different story, but with the same amount of vivid clarity. Some were young and barely awake, some were young adults moving through life when the news broke. One of the most repeated Observations was that nobody realized it wasn’t an accident until the second plane hit. One of the teachers we interviewed, Mr. Kelly said, “..but when I saw the second one happen, I was like ‘Okay, this is different.’”This is a great example of the confusion and sudden realization that everyone shared.

In the following days, the impact of the attacks weighed heavily on us. Teachers described the two popular perspectives: The overwhelming feeling of terror and sadness as people mourned, and the other, which highlighted the sense of togetherness and community that was everywhere. People of all backgrounds, political associations, and religions were able to come together to heal after this tragedy. As Mrs. Klemme quoted, “From darkness came this really great light.. everyone put their flags up and helped neighbors and loved each other.” 

Finally, we asked them how they thought 9/11 plays a role in society today. This again resulted in many similar answers. Some gave a literal answer, such as the changes in air travel and the growth of homeland security. Others gave a more emotional and sentimental response, talking about a greater sense of community and togetherness. 

In the end, after interviewing multiple faculty, we’ve learned many common truths, such as the feeling of community and unity after the events of 9/11. The undeniable common factor is that we, as Americans who have been united by tragedy, May Never Forget.

Written by: Phillip Solis and Nicholas Prieto 

Video by: Nathaniel Yracheta, Nicholas Prieto, and Phillip Solis

Edited by: Josephina Emerson