Dear Fellow New Yorker:

On the anniversary of September 11th, 2001, and the tragic terrorist attack on our nation, there are so many thoughts and emotions that run through my mind.

There is certainly a sense of loss and sorrow, and, there is anger at those who took cowardly aim at our nation.

Rising above all though is resilience.

Americans, and in particular, New Yorkers, have an innate ability to fight back in the face of adversity.

That horrific day, which claimed nearly 3,000 lives in New York City, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania, while devastating and tragic, brought this country together like no other time before.

People banded together with a renewed sense of community – neighbors helping neighbors, strangers helping strangers, working together to rebuild lives.

In those early days following 9-11, our neighborhoods were bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the loss of life because of the unthinkable attacks.   Our American flag was the symbol of national pride that bound us shoulder-to-shoulder, and helped us through the most difficult of times.

It is difficult to put into words the countless emotions each of us experience in marking this tragic anniversary.  I ask you all to keep in mind one straightforward sentiment - remember 9-11 – we shall never forget.  As a lasting tribute to those lost, let us work to keep alive that sense of unity, compassion, and caring for each other. 

Thank you and God Bless America today, tomorrow and always.

Sincerely,

James L. Seward

State Senator