Always Remember: September 11th

Sydney Pelletier-Martinelli posing near the bench they plaqued in her “Papa’s” honor in Bruce Park where he loved to take her as a baby.

It’s hard to believe that 15 years have passed since the World Trade Center came down and almost 3,000 lives were lost to the horrors of terrorism and hatred. I feel confident in saying that those of us who lived through those terrifying days after the attacks will never forget. But for those who lost a husband, wife, father, mother, brother, sister or family member they loved dearly – this day means so much more. Over the years my heart has felt fuller knowing that monuments, plaques and performances have been created to help us remember those lost that day. My dear friend Sydney Pelletier-Martinelli was just a baby when she lost her father, the husband of Sydney’s equally incredible mother Sophie. Since meeting them 6 years ago I have marveled at the strength and courage they have shown since losing “Mike”. Sydney is a spectacular dancer and for the last 3 years she has travelled to New York City in the early hours of September 11th to join a group of dancers in the Plaza at Lincoln Center. These dancers from around the world perform what is called The Table of Silence Project – a beautiful dance that symbolizes unity and peace. As we look out at the world around us and still see bitter wars, terror attacks and hateful behavior happening, it is imperative that we remember now more than ever what happened on 9-11. We all must try to be more tolerant and spread love instead of hatred. I am so proud of sweet Sydney who gives her all dancing each September 11th in honor of her “Papa”. Please support this wonderful project so that they can continue to honor the brave men and women we lost that day. Gone – but never forgotten.

You can donate here and learn more about the dance performance here.

“The Table of Silence Project represents the common threads of humanity which unite all mankind into a single force with common goals and aspirations regardless of race, culture, or religion.  Through this event, we wish to achieve the dual purpose of celebrating and honoring peace and freedom for all people suffering oppression, through listening, a united moment of silence – a call for Peace in our world.”

– Jacqulyn Buglisi, choreographer