Tomorrow will mark 19 years since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, which saw four airplanes hijacked and crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Pennsylvania.
For many of a certain generation, those attacks, which resulted in 2,977 fatalities, were a defining moment in their lifetime. A moment where just about anyone who lived through it will be able to recall vividly where they were when they first heard the news of the attacks. Though the carnage was contained within the borders of the United States, there was an undeniable ripple effect felt in Canada, not to mention the rest of the world. As close allies to the U.S., the threat of an attack on Canadian soil seemed plausible. When it came time to seek justice and prevent another attack, Canadian soldiers were among those to answer the call.
Nearly 20 years later, a very different catastrophe has reared its ugly head and will no doubt play a pivotal role in shaping history over the next two decades.
Though there is no real one moment that signifies the start of COVID-19, as opposed to the striking image of a plane slamming into the side of a tower, those who lived through this pandemic will never forget. Thousands of innocent lives have been lost to the disease and the numbers continue to climb. Just as in the days and months following the attack in 2001, there remains a certain level of anxiety for some people as they return to public spaces for fear of contracting the virus. As researchers continue to work towards a vaccination, there still remains no real concept of when the worst will be over.
Like a terrorist attack, the virus remains unpredictable. Geographical borders mean nothing to it and often times it’s impossible to see until it’s too late.
Tragic as the attacks of 2001 were, they did stir up a level of patriotism and togetherness not seen in this reporter’s lifetime and not one seen since. Political parties put aside their differences and found a way to work together for the greater good. Strangers pitched in to help those in need. Nations bound together to keep citizens of all nationalities safe. Frontline workers risked their own health and safety to care for strangers. Unfortunately, many have paid the ultimate price for their dedication. Their sacrifice has also saved untold amount of lives as well.
If there’s one thing to take out of tomorrow’s anniversary, it’s that humankind is capable of overcoming the worst of tragedies when they work together. Just as its important to honour those who lost their lives that day, it’s just as necessary to remember the lessons brought about from the disaster as well.
Adam Prudhomme