MANHATTAN, New York – Every year, each of the FBI’s 56 field offices nominates members of or agencies in local communities making a difference and exemplifying leadership. FBI New York nominated the 9/11 Memorial & Museum for the 2020 Director’s Community Leadership Award for its work commemorating and maintaining the legacy of one of the most tragic days in our country’s history. Demonstrating the consequences of terrorism on individual lives and the impact on communities at the local, national, and international levels, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum attests to the triumph of human dignity over human depravity and affirms an unwavering commitment to the fundamental value of human life.
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum serves as the country’s principal institution for examining the attacks of September 11, 2001, and documenting their continuing impact and significance. The organization remembers and honors the nearly 3,000 victims who died that day, and all those who risked or lost their lives saving others in the months and years after.
Through commemoration, exhibitions, and educational programs, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is committed to providing relevant and engaging learning opportunities for students, teachers, families, the general public, and the FBI and other law enforcement partners, and offers content and strategies for learning about the attacks and their aftermath to the community and others.
“Like thousands of others, I watched the smoke billowing from the World Trade Towers on September 11th. I’ve been to the Memorial and Museum many times since it opened. The Memorial is majestic tribute, and the Museum is hallowed ground which reminds us of all who were lost. For the employees who serve at the site, their work is an enduring mission of service to the global community—to make sure we eternally honor the victims and teach future generations of the sacrifices made that day and beyond, so that we truly never forget,” said William F. Sweeney, Assistant Director-in-charge of the FBI New York Field Office. “This year, as we approach the 20th Anniversary of September 11th, I cannot think of a more deserving cause, or fitting group, to serve as the FBI New York field office’s recipient for the Director’s Community Leadership Award.”
“Our partnership with the FBI has been profoundly meaningful for our staff and institution,” said Clifford Chanin, executive vice president and deputy director for Museum Programs. “The Bureau’s guidance and support has been instrumental for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum since before we opened, and as we approach the 20th anniversary, we are humbled by their commitment to our programs and this history. We are deeply grateful for this award and look forward to continuing this relationship far into the future.”
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum tells the story of 9/11 through media, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts, presenting visitors with personal stories of loss, recovery, and hope. The FBI New York and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum regularly work together towards education on terrorism and other initiatives aligned with the FBI’s mission. The professionals who make up the staff of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum have made valuable contributions to New York City and the world, which is why FBI New York nominated the 9/11 Memorial & Museum for the 2020 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award.
