If you are old enough to remember Tuesday, September 11, 2001, it was a day you will remember forever. Perhaps you were in school, at work, or watching the tragic events unfold at home. The emotions of that day still linger, even 20 years later. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives that day, and over 6,000 people were injured. Despair, fear, anger, and an overwhelming sense of sadness swept across the nation. At Ground Zero, determination, duty, and exhaustion filled the hearts and minds of brave first responders who carried out the largest rescue and recovery operation in history. As our nation began to heal, music played an important role in remembering the lives of those we lost while honoring the bravery and sacrifices of those who served. Music allowed us to express ourselves in a way that words could not convey. The music reminded us to hope, to love, to rebuild, and to serve. It reignited within many a sense of unity and national pride. We all hope that our children will never have to endure the tragedy we faced. But we must teach and educate our children about 9/11 as we reflect.
On Thursday, September 8, 2021, at ESYO's CHIME Orientation, Dr. David Bebe led an ensemble of CHIME Teaching Artists in a reading of a piece that he composed for the CHIME teachers to perform in commemoration of this 20 year anniversary. Reflections of 9/11 echo in the themes of remembrance, unity, and service. Sustained through the hollowed piece are the voices of three beloved American songs, Taps (Remembrance), The Star-Spangled Banner (Unity), and Amazing Grace (Service).
If you are looking for age-appropriate ways to talk to your child about 9/11, visit 911memorial.org/learn.