New York Commemorates 25th Anniversary Of 9/11 Attacks
New York Commemorates 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks
New York City has commemorated the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, remembering the thousands of people killed while highlighting the devastating health consequences that have continued to claim lives decades later. The attacks, which targeted the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Virginia and a field in Pennsylvania, killed 2,977 people. The anniversary is being marked with memorial ceremonies, moments of silence and tributes across the United States. Beyond those who died on September 11, more than 9,400 people have since died from illnesses linked to exposure during and after the attacks, according to the federal programme established to provide medical care to affected responders and survivors. The long-term health crisis has been linked largely to toxic dust and debris at Ground Zero. Firefighters, police officers, rescue workers, residents and others who were exposed to the contaminated environment have suffered illnesses including cancers and respiratory conditions. Recent figures indicate that nearly 10,000 people have died from 9/11-related illnesses, while more than 145,000 people continue to receive treatment for health problems associated with the attack. Families of victims gathered in New York to read the names of those who lost their lives, while similar commemorations were held at the Pentagon and the Flight 93 crash site in Pennsylvania. This year’s anniversary also includes a moment of silence specifically honouring people who died from illnesses caused by exposure to toxic dust following the attacks. The 25th anniversary has provided an opportunity not only to remember those killed on September 11, but also to recognise the first responders, survivors and families who have continued to experience the consequences of the tragedy. Twenty-five years later, the legacy of 9/11 continues to be felt through the loss of lives, lasting health problems and the profound political and social changes that followed the attacks.
