Friday marks the 19th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. In keeping with a tradition begun in 2004, numerous leaders of the 9/11 community have sent letters to the Trump and Biden campaigns requesting that each voluntarily suspend political campaign activities, social media, and advertising this Friday, in favor of solemn expressions of service and remembrance. “On this one day, we ask President Trump and Vice President Biden to honor those lost, and those who rose in service, by setting aside their political differences for the moment and focusing instead on the solemn nature of the day and the opportunity that they and we all have to make a difference for those in need,” says Jay Winuk, cofounder of the nonprofit 9/11 Day. Given the current pandemic, the group is providing creative, virtual ways for Americans to participate in what is now known as the National Day of Service and Remembrance. The 911Day.org website features good deeds that can all be done virtually and include supporting frontline workers, voting access, COVID-19 response, supporting struggling local restaurants, promoting diversity and more. Jay Winuk and David Paine started the nonprofit 9/11 Day after Winuk’s brother Glenn, a lawyer, volunteer firefighter and EMT, died in the 2001 terrorist attack at the World Trade Center in New York City. Contact Emily Walsh or Omar Renta at 9/11day@sunshinesachs.com
