Remembering 9/11 Through an Anti-Racism Lens

September 11, 2001, was one of the most devastating days in American history. Thousands of citizens, firefighters, police officers, medics, friends, and family members lost their lives in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Since I was not alive when 9/11 happened, I have only experienced this moment in history through videos, articles, and photographs.

I remember sitting in my 7th grade history class watching videos of the planes hitting the World Trade Center. Seeing those images at such a young age was both gut-wrenching and desensitizing. Because my generation learned about 9/11 through media and education rather than experiencing it firsthand, we have a different relationship with the event than those who lived through it.

One part of 9/11 that stands out to me is the increase in Islamophobia, racial discrimination, and religious prejudice that followed the attacks. While Americans were understandably angry and afraid, Muslim Americans and other marginalized communities were often unfairly targeted because of their race, ethnicity, or religion.

Looking back on 9/11 through an anti-racism and social justice lens reminds us of the importance of challenging stereotypes, discrimination, and prejudice. Remembering history is not only about remembering what happened. It is also about learning from it and building communities based on equity, inclusion, respect, and understanding.