Remembering September 11th, Missing September 12th

by Mayor Sean Denison

As we head into the Fall of an election year – we need to prepare ourselves for two more months of political ads and commercials, partisan bickering, and everything that goes with it.

Unfortunately, partisanship has become a full-time issue – not just election year theatre.

The nastiness, the name calling, it has become the norm in our country. We rarely see respectful, thoughtful debates on important issues anymore. Instead, we get sound bites, tweets, hate and anger.

On this September 11th, I would encourage all of us to take time to pause and reflect and remember the country we lived in on September 12, 2001. A country that was united by tragedy. Where people of all ages, skin color, political affiliation, and sexual preference, came together as Americans. That is the America we need today – more than ever.

Twenty-one years have passed, but the vivid memories of September 11, 2001, remain crystal clear in my mind. The painful memories of that day – are eased only by the feelings of pride and hope that I felt on September 12th.

My hope this September 11th, is that we all do our part – to be part of the solution. To be respectful of one another, even when we disagree vehemently. To be active participants in our democracy. To serve our communities and seek out public service. To teach our children about the frailty of democracy – and what is required to defend and preserve it.

Thank you, see you around town,
Sean Denison, Mayor

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