Even 21 years later, you can probably remember exactly where you were and what you were doing when you first heard the news about the tragic events of 9/11. While it will always remain an unforgettable day for us, our children only know the story of the attack on the World Trade Center from the classroom, a passing news report, or social media post. A visit to the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial in Jersey City may help offer your kids greater insight and understanding while giving parents a chance to reflect and pay their respects to the many lives lost on that heartbreaking day in 2001. And for more reflection and remembrance there will be 9/11 events happening in NJ in 2022. (featured photo credit: Istock/olli0815)
Two steel beams represent the twin towers and stand facing the NYC skyline as a memorial to the 749 New Jersey residents who lost their lives during the attack. Photo Credit: Istock/olli0815
Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial in Jersey City
Set on the Hudson River in Jersey City, the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial is dedicated to the 749 New Jersey residents who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Two stainless steel walls bearing the victims’ names create a pathway for the eye to look at the Manhattan skyline where the Twin Towers once stood. The length of these walls is equal to one side of the former World Trade Center Towers, while the height is proportionate to the measurements of the buildings lying side by side. A grassy terrace and weeping cherry trees surround the walls, creating a beautiful and serene landscape with panoramic views of New York City. The Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial is a lasting tribute linking New Jersey and Ground Zero and a place to join together as a family and a community. Though many lives were senselessly lost, their legacies live on through this commemorative structure.
The New Jersey 9/11 Memorial Foundation
The New Jersey 9/11 Memorial Foundation is a nonprofit organization formed to raise funds for creating the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial, which opened to the public in 2011. It now serves to defray the cost of events and programs and ensure the monument’s upkeep. The all-volunteer foundation board consists of family members who lost a loved one during the attacks. Every dollar raised goes directly to the cause with no administrative fees. Donations to the foundation are accepted via the memorial website and help honor the loved ones lost on 9/11.
Upcoming event at Empty Sky Memorial
To honor the lives lost on 9/11, this year’s Empty Sky Memorial 5K Run/Walk will begin with a remembrance ceremony at 9:30 AM, with the race following at 10 AM on October 8, rain or shine. It’s a great chance to spend the day together as a family while doing something meaningful. If you can’t make it to race day, sign up for the virtual 5K run/walk, and get your steps in walking around the block or on your treadmill anytime during September.
For more information on the memorial or contributing, visit the foundation on their website, Facebook or Twitter.
The Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial
1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Have you ever visited the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial in Jersey City?
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