Event Date: 26 Apr 2011
Location: New York, United States of America
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The Tribute WTC Visitor Centre is a small but powerful space spread across 2 levels. Walking in, there are photos, banners and descriptions of moments in time during the 9/11 events. Towards the back of the ground level, there is a collage of personal photos on several walls, dedicated to those that were lost. Below ground is an interactive area with items found and significant to the event. Visitors can also write and display their own messages and blessings.
America has done a great job at remembering each individual for who they were. Making each one of the victims known, not just being one of many. I think this has made a significant difference when it comes to honouring them in such settings as the Tribute WTC Visitor Centre.
There is a solemn and respectful vibe throughout the small space. Tourists naturally set aside their cameras out of respect and are genuinely intrigued and interested in learning more about the people as well as the event that took place. 10 years on, memories and emotions are still rampant even as people have started to rebuild their lives.
There are a group of wonderful volunteers who run many walking tours through the day. These people have either lost someone in or experienced first hand the events of 9/11. They take you on a journey to the significant destinations at or around ground zero.
The tour we took was run by a lady who lived close by. Her daughter worked in one of the towers. Assisting was a man who worked in one of the rescue units. Through the tour, they told us their stories and their experiences. They and their peers are strong beyond belief as they have moved past the most painful point to share with strangers.
