Context:

The United States marks the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks with nationwide memorials and observances, led by New York’s 9/11 Memorial & Museum ceremony where families read the names of victims and seven moments of silence accompany the remembrance. Attendees include current and former city leaders and high-profile politicians, with reports that several former presidents and first ladies are expected to attend. A drone light show in New York commemorates the nearly 3,000 lives lost, while communities nationwide observe services at locations such as the Pentagon and Flight 93 memorial. The week also features newly released documents on air quality and health concerns, and ongoing tributes to first responders and victims’ families. Momentum for the anniversary builds toward renewed reflection and ongoing remembrance across the country.

Dive Deeper:

• In New York City, the national 9/11 Memorial and Museum hosts its annual ceremony starting at 8:30am, with families gathering at the Memorial Plaza to read aloud the names of those killed in the attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

• The ceremony features seven moments of silence corresponding to key times during the attacks, and honors those who died from related illnesses in the years since, per the museum’s program.

• Current and former New York City leaders are expected to attend, including the city’s mayor, Zohran Mamdani, with reports that former Presidents and other national figures such as Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, and Jill Biden are likely participants.

• A drone show in New York City on the eve of the anniversary displayed 2,977 lights before forming the twin-tower outline, serving as a visual tribute to each life lost.

• New documents released days earlier by the Mamdani administration detail health concerns, air quality issues, and the city’s response to the attacks, including evidence suggesting New Yorkers were misled about air safety after 9/11.

• The FDNY will hold a morning ceremony at the department’s memorial to honor the 343 firefighters who died, underscoring the enduring impact on first responders.