As the nation marked the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11  terrorist attacks, Arcadia High School (AHS) held a solemn and poignant event to remember the lives lost and the enduring impact of that fateful day. In a powerful live-streamed video tribute, students and staff joined together to honor the victims of 9/11, demonstrating the strength of unity in the face of tragedy.

Max Cheung, a senior at AHS, shared his perspective on the significance of remembering 9/11. 

“9/11 has not impacted my life nor my family’s life in any significant way,”  Cheung said. “But I do believe Arcadia should highlight the lives lost and the attacks because it’s a modern tragedy and a story of American determination.”

Cheung’s sentiments capture the essence of why it is crucial for our school and the nation to commemorate 9/11. While the events of that day might not have directly affected everyone, the impact of 9/11 reverberates through American society, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of resilience and unity. In the aftermath of 9/11, the United States underwent a significant shift in its foreign policy and national security footage. It also played a role in shaping American national identity. It reinforced the ideals of freedom, democracy, and the importance of standing together in times of crisis. 

The live-streamed video tribute featured a series of moving segments. These segments included personal testimonials from students, teachers, and community members who shared their thoughts and reflections on 9/11. Several teachers were in college then, and had not received the information of the attack till later on. The video also displayed images and footage from that life altering day, ensuring that the memory of 9/11 would never fade away.

Throughout the video, viewers were reminded of the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost, the heroic actions of first responders, and the enduring impact on American society. The tribute served as a poignant reminder that 9/11 was not just an attack on the United States but an attack on humanity itself. It emphasized the importance of standing together in the face of adversity.

The AHS event also highlighted the importance of educating the younger generation about the events of 9/11. All  of the current students were born after the attacks, making it even more crucial to ensure that they understand the significance of that day and its lasting impact on our world.

A sophomore at AHS, Shreya Sandal, echoed this sentiment. “Arcadia recognizing the attack is great since Americans would unite over the tragedy and remember the lives lost,” Sandal stated. Indeed, the unity that emerged in the aftermath of 9/11 is a testament to the strength of the American spirit. It showcased how a nation could come together, regardless of differences, during times of crisis.

The commemoration ceremony concluded with a moment of silence, allowing all participants to reflect on the lives lost and the resilience displayed by the American people. It served as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is hope, unity, and the potential for positive change.

Images courtesy of APN’s 9/11 Remembrance video.