Not In Oscar's Wildest Dreams

 

Yesterday, twenty-five days away from the 21st anniversary of the September 11 attacks that killed thousands, New York City's 9/11 Tribute Museum closed its doors forever.   One might ask how those of us who were alive on that terrible Tuesday morning shall educate those who were not when an invaluable resource such as this gem of a joint is, itself, resigned to history's dustbin.  It is an excellent question.  It is also one to which I do not know the answer. 

The COVID-19 pandemic sealed its fate, apparently.  In 2019, 150,000 people came through its doors.  In 2021, that number plunged precipitously to just 26,000.  Of course, the pandemic is only partially responsible for its demise.  Equally responsible are those in power in New York City and the State of New York who have allowed this to happen to this wonderful little museum, which was created by the September 11th Families Association, a not-for-profit whose mission is beautifully described here.  The Museum's purpose was a laudable one: 

The 9/11 Tribute Museum conveys an understanding of the humanity and community that was both lost and found in the aftermath of 9/11.  Throughout the 9/11 Tribute Museum, visitors are engaged in appreciating the scope and impact of the disaster as well as the enormous outpouring of compassion in response.  By sharing with visitors the authentic experiences of those most affected by the events, exhibits and programs convey the courage, loss, heroism, and grief of those who responded to the tragedy. 

Active recording, preserving and sharing of these experiences are central to the mission of the 9/11 Tribute Museum.  Participation in the Tribute volunteer program has had a documented impact on members of the 9/11 community; promoting an enhanced sense of healing, enhanced compassion and appreciation for their place as history keepers. 

And now, incredibly it is the 9/11 Tribute Museum that is history.  Jennifer Adams-Webb, the Museum's co-founder and CEO of the September 11th Families Association, told the New York Post, "We need the state or the city to step in with other partners to be able to say, 'We value you.  We want to save this organization,' but at this point, we can't continue to dig into a hole." 

Nor should they have had to do so.  

-AK