In New York City, 25 years after the attacks on 9/11, the 2,977 people who lost their lives are still remembered and memorialized by their loved ones. The aftermath of the attacks still affects the lives of the people who live in the city today, whether they lived through them or not. On September 11th, 2026, YAF at NYU made a memorial display with a flag representing each person who died in the attacks that day.
We had people of all ages and beliefs come up to us during the 9/11 Never Forget Project. We heard stories from volunteers, veterans, first responders, alumni, teachers, faculty, and more. They told us their stories: many had been at Ground Zero to save lives, others were scouring hospitals for their loved ones or running from the devastation. Countless people who came up were able to name a family member or a friend who was close to them and plant a flag in his or her honor.
It was heartwarming and encouraging to receive so much support. Young America’s Foundation provided invaluable resources to make the display, and the people of New York gave us the opportunity to share the history of 9/11 and its true impact on our school in particular. In the attacks on the World Trade Center, 55 NYU alumni lost their lives. We set aside a special space for them at the top of our display, each flag with a name. NYU students were shocked to discover this connection to 9/11, as none had been born yet during the attacks. Many students were moved to plant a flag and learn their names.
It was a unique and incredible memorial that we hope to continue in the future. New York City will never forget 9/11. It is up to us to help future generations remember those we lost and why.
