On September 11, 2001, the world changed forever.
What began as an ordinary morning turned into one of the darkest days in modern history. Coordinated terrorist attacks in the United States left nearly 3,000 people dead and millions more forever impacted—including Canadians.
For many of us, the images of that day are still vivid: smoke pouring from the Twin Towers in New York, the Pentagon engulfed in flames, and the crash site of United Airlines Flight 93 in rural Pennsylvania. These events were not only an attack on America—they were an attack on peace, freedom, and humanity.
What Happened on 9/11?
On the morning of September 11, four commercial airplanes were hijacked by terrorists from the extremist group al-Qaeda. Two planes struck the World Trade Center towers in New York City. A third hit the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. The fourth, believed to be headed toward another key U.S. landmark, crashed in a Pennsylvania field after brave passengers attempted to retake the aircraft.
The human toll was staggering: thousands dead, including first responders, passengers, workers, and bystanders. Among them were 24 Canadians—mothers, fathers, children, friends—whose names and stories are remembered across our nation.
Canada’s Response: Compassion, Solidarity, and Action
Though the attacks happened on American soil, Canadians responded with immediate and heartfelt solidarity. One of the most powerful examples was the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, which welcomed nearly 7,000 stranded airline passengers after U.S. airspace was closed. In what became known as "Operation Yellow Ribbon," communities across the country opened their arms and homes to total strangers.
Canadian firefighters, search-and-rescue teams, and other professionals also offered support in the aftermath. Vigils were held in cities and towns across Canada, and Parliament paused in mourning and unity. Our nation stood side-by-side with our closest neighbour and ally.
The Legacy of 9/11 in Canada
In the years since, 9/11 has had a lasting impact on Canadian policy and society. Canada joined the international coalition in Afghanistan, contributing troops, aid, and support in the global fight against terrorism. Security measures at airports and border crossings were overhauled, and the way intelligence is shared between Canada and the U.S. was reshaped.
But the most profound legacy may be in how the events brought people together—in grief, in hope, and in determination to build a safer world.
Why We Remember
For JRJ LAW and for Canadians as a whole, remembering 9/11 is not just about what happened in the United States. It’s about the lives lost, including our own citizens. It’s about the heroism that inspired the world. And it's about the enduring partnership and shared values that bind Canada and the U.S.
Each year, as we reflect on this tragic day, we honour the victims, thank the heroes, and remind ourselves of the importance of compassion, unity, and vigilance.
September 11, 2001, is etched into our collective memory. As Canadians, we remember not only the horror of that day but the humanity that rose in its wake. We remember the 24 Canadians who never came home. We remember the strangers who became family in small towns like Gander. And we remember that in the face of fear and hate, we chose kindness and courage.
Let us continue to remember—together. Lest We Forget!