Grenadian national Jennifer Viechweg Horsford, founder of Leaders Engaging in All-Round Development International (LEAD*N), brought together the Canarsie community on Sept. 11 in a Litter to Glitter clean streets initiative, featuring drumming and storytelling to mark the organization’s annual 9/11 Remembrance in Brooklyn.
Residents gathered at the corner of Glenwood Road and Rockaway Parkway at 4 p.m. to remember that tragic day 24 years ago on Sept. 11, 2001, when terrorists flew airplanes into the World Trade Center towers, the Pentagon, and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, killing thousands of innocent people of all nationalities.
Horsford is committed to empowering youth to take the lead, while inspiring positive change through exciting activities, including a clean-up initiative.
During a solemn, yet honorable, and joyous remembrance, the community leader expressed the outpouring of kindness, that is seen on September 11.
“Anyone who relates to the horrific incident, they show some act of kindness. People were making that sacrifice. That’s what we wanted, the value of caring and sharing,” she said, adding, “this what this event is about.”
She added: “Every year, we do it grassroots style. We meet a stranger, and we get them to share their story, so that we can continue to ensure that we never forget.”
Horsford decided it was fitting to create a space for the community to pay tribute, and to honor all who perished on 9/11, after having to travel to Manhattan or Staten Island for the Remembrance ceremony for many years. She noted that the Canarsie event gives both children and adults the opportunity to express themselves, and say thanks to all who risked their lives, and to those who continue to mourn.
Retired firefighter Curtis Bolden recalled listening to the radio when he heard an airplane had crashed into the first tower, and questioned if it was an accident or an attack, and saw when the second tower was hit.
“Today is a big day for the department,” Bolden said. “The 9/11 memorial is for everybody in the US to pay their respects. That is followed by a memorial in October that welcome firefighters from all over America, and from other countries to show support, not only for the 343 members that perished, but for family members of those who were lost.”
He said he does not speak much about that tragic day, noting that, “You must be mindful of the effects the tragedy had on people. You just can’t speak on every situation. Some people might leave out details that they are not aware of, that can be hurtful to families.
“You must give glory to God for the people who made it out of the buildings,” Bolden added. “There are many people who live with survivors’ regret. I know of brothers that were not working that day, and others who were in their place and suffered due to the attack.”
He said he want people to remember, God is always in their midst, and he shared that there is a lasting tribute of a cross made from two of the beams that remained after the buildings fell. It stands on the training grounds on Randall’s Island with the names of the firefighter academy members who gave their lives to save others on that fateful day.
“Even though it was tragic, we know that the things God do[es], and allow[s], “not by his will but ultimately for a greater purpose. We must be mindful for that. We must remember the people who died, and those who are still ailing from the tragedy. There are firefighters, and others, who have worked at the 9/11 site, MTA workers, and family members, who are fighting to take care of their health, due to residual effects.”
Bolden, also a retired Army Sergeant who served for 24 years, was one of several speakers who recalled events of that fateful day.
The Remembrance was blessed by Shellenn Alexis-Josey, before the Black National Anthem was sung by Elijah Cronniett. This was followed by an emotional rendition of “Still I Rise” by 10-year old Jewel Josey, a student of Success Academy–East Flatbush Middle School.
The young overachiever is also the 2025 Global Youth Ambassador, and Grenada’s distinguished youth NYC recipient — all while carrying out the duties as the CEO/Founder of Accelerate & Arise Foundation Inc.
Stephon Cronniett and mother Princess Cronniett paid tribute with a mellow, entertaining Flag Dance, before a pulsating beating of the drums by members of the Divine Explosion Arts Program D.E.A.P. and a clean-up campaign on Rockaway, that cemented the annual 911 Remembrance.
Horsford expressed gratitude to all who played a part in the day’s tribute, including Pastor Dr. Jennifer Kennedy, of Prayer Pact Int. Church, Calvin Sennon, proprietor of TriniJam BK, and founder of Taste of Canarsie, members of D.E.A.P. Cato Sno-Cone, and others.
