LULAC Honors the Memory of All Those Lost on 9/11:
23 Years Later, We Still Remember

Today, as we mark 23 years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, we stand united in remembrance. It is difficult to grasp that nearly 3,000 lives were taken from us that day—lives that altered the course of history and revealed the depths of our nation’s resolve. Their memory is not just one of sorrow but also a testament to the unbreakable spirit that binds us together as Americans.

These individuals came from all walks of life, representing the rich tapestry of our nation—people of every race, background, and creed. They were fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters. Their loss is felt profoundly by their families and by all of us. We carry their stories in our hearts, and their legacy remains alive in our shared commitment to each other and to our country.

Among the lives lost were an estimated 250 Latinos, including 67 undocumented individuals from Mexico and other Latin American nations. They, like many, pursued the promise of a better life, often working in silence, contributing to their families and communities here and abroad. Their contributions may have been unseen by some, but their sacrifices echo loudly today.

People like Jose Manuel Cardona come to mind—a 35-year-old immigrant from Ecuador, expecting his first child with his wife. By day, he worked as a clerk on Wall Street, and on weekends, he and his wife sold fish, hoping to build a future and buy a home. His story, like so many others, reflects the perseverance and quiet strength that define the immigrant experience in America.

As we remember all those who perished on September 11, we also honor the lives they lived. They were more than victims—they were dreamers, workers, and contributors to the fabric of this nation. Their lives did not end that day; their legacy lives on in the strength and unity of this country, growing with each passing year.

Let us allow their memory to guide us forward. Let their sacrifices inspire us to stand together as one people, to live up to the ideals of liberty, justice, and equality that they cherished. In remembering them, we commit ourselves to building a future worthy of their dreams and their lives.

In the face of unimaginable loss, we find hope. Our shared humanity will continue to be our strength, even in the darkest times. Today, we honor them, we remember them, and we promise—we will never forget.

Roman Palomares
LULAC National President

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About League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest Latino civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Latinos and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 535 Councils and 145,000 members across the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services, and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting the critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.