At Westwood High School the effects of 9/11 have been felt in various ways over the years. In the early stages of the 9/11 aftermath, the school integrated numerous measures to commemorate and reflect on the events of that day. However, over two decades since the attack, there has been a noticeable shift.
The change has not gone unnoticed by students and faculty at Westwood High. The solemnity and significance of 9/11 seem to have diminished in the school’s activities and curriculum, leading to disappointment among those who remember when the day was marked with greater reverence.
Jermaine Higgins, a sophomore at Westwood, offered his reflections and addressed his disappointment. As he straightened his posture, the tension in his shoulders eased. He cleared his throat, leaving an echo and a little bit of awkwardness in the room.
“When I was in middle school, we used to have a moment of silence, and teachers would discuss the events of 9/11 in our history classes.” Jermaine shared.
“It felt like we were really honoring the memory of those who lost their lives.”
Higgins continued, “But now, it seems like just another day. There’s no special assembly, no dedicated time to reflect. It’s disappointing because it’s such an important part of our history.”
On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 lives were lost when the United States endured one of its darkest days as al-Qaeda carried out a series of coordinated terrorist attacks.
Four commercial airplanes were hijacked, two of which crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. The third plane struck the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, while the fourth, United Flight 93, crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to regain control from the hijackers.
The impact of 9/11 extended well beyond the immediate loss of life and physical destruction.
Ms. Jenny Vantiem, a band director at Westwood highlighted that,
“In the years following 9/11, there was a strong emphasis on remembrance. We had guest speakers, including first responders and veterans, who shared their experiences.”
On the district level, Richland School District Two had a few RedHawks join them to honor the heroes and victims of 9/11. They had a moment of silence, and guest speakers who knew about and had experiences with 9/11.
Ms. Vantiem sorely adds, “Over time, however, the focus has shifted.”
New initiatives and academic pressures have taken precedence, and the significance of 9/11 has been somewhat overshadowed. ” It’s crucial that we find a balance and ensure that students understand the impact of that day on our nation and the world.”
The decline in 9/11 remembrance at Westwood raises questions about how schools can balance their busy schedules with honoring significant historical events.
As the years pass, keeping the memory of 9/11 alive remains vital for ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate its profound effects on society.
