WASHINGTON, D.C. - On September11, 2001, 62 members of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) perished when hijacked planes crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon near Washington, D.C. Window cleaners, elevator operators, porters, tour guides, state employees, first responders, and maintenance workers were our friends, our family, our neighbors, our co-workers, and our union brothers and sisters.

Ahead of the 10th anniversary of this national tragedy, SEIU International President Mary Kay Henry issued the following statement:

Ten years ago, America faced one of the greatest tragedies in generations when four hijacked planes crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon near Washington, D.C., and in rural Pennsylvania killing thousands of people.

"But from our darkest hours, we rose to meet a brighter day, inspired by countless stories of unmatched heroism, stories of everyday people answering a higher call in our greatest moments of need. Stories of first-responders risking their lives to save others, security officers guiding hundreds out of burning buildings, and strangers reaching out a friendly hand to those in need. These narratives remind us what is so special about America.

"Ten years later, we are still trying to reconcile the unimaginable courage and the raw humanity America witnessed September 11, 2001. And 10 years later, we are still striving to honor the legacy of those who perished--not just because of their heroism that day--but because their bravery is among the most compelling accounts of what it means to be an American.

"The stories of the 62 members of SEIU--members of 1199SEIU, SEIU Local 4053/PEF and SEIU 32BJ--who perished that day are among these compelling accounts of bravery. The immigrant janitor and single mother who worked tirelessly to realize the American Dream. The paramedic, husband and father, who put himself through night school to answer the call of public service. The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance employee, committed to civic life and social activism.

"Today, as we reflect on the heroism and bravery of those who perished on September 11, 2001, we are reminded of just how many men and women risk their lives each day. Now more than ever, we are called to renew our commitment to public service and to honor the legacy of the brave and heroic by respecting the work of those who keep our communities safe and protected."

With 2.1 million members in Canada, the United States and Puerto Rico, SEIU is the fastest-growing union in the Americas. Focused on uniting workers in healthcare, public services and property services, SEIU members are winning better wages, healthcare and more secure jobs for our communities, while uniting their strength with their counterparts around the world to help ensure that workers--not just corporations and CEOs--benefit from today's global economy.

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