Twenty-four years after the terror attacks of September 11, the Jewish community of Kew Gardens Hills gathered at the Young Israel for an evening of reflection, unity, and remembrance. Hosted by Talkline CEO Zev Brenner, the memorial brought together civic leaders, clergy, and residents to honor the victims and reaffirm the city’s resilience.
The featured speaker, Curtis Sliwa – Guardian Angels founder and Republican candidate for New York City mayor – was introduced with a short video montage of 9/11 and of Sliwa – who was on the air that morning with his then-radio partner Ron Kuby on WABC – as well as a television interview recounting the details in the aftermath of that tragic day.
Mr. Sliwa took to the podium, delivering a powerful address that blended historical perspective, personal conviction, and a call to action. Recalling his own efforts at Ground Zero in the days after the attack, he spoke passionately about the importance of teaching future generations about 9/11 and the Holocaust. “If we don’t teach our children and grandchildren, they won’t know about it – and we have only ourselves to blame,” he said, pledging that as mayor he would make such education mandatory in city schools.
Sliwa also spoke candidly about the rise of anti-Semitism, both abroad and at home, urging parents and grandparents to instill “tough love” and historical awareness in younger generations. He reminded the audience that solidarity, vigilance, and education are the keys to preventing history from repeating itself.
Councilman Bob Holden also addressed the packed synagogue, sharing his own memories of 9/11 and warning against political complacency. A lifelong Democrat, Holden stressed that common-sense leadership must transcend party lines, and he praised Sliwa’s record of standing with Jewish communities in times of crisis.
The evening began with prayers and Psalms led by Rabbi Daniel Rosenfelt, who called the gathering “a sacred obligation of the heart to remember.” The program included moving reflections from Yoni Hikind, who spoke of the vulnerability many Jews now feel on campuses and in public spaces, drawing parallels between 9/11 and the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.
Music lifted the room as Dr. Paul Brody – accompanied on piano by his daughter Tali – led the singing of the national anthem. Organizers including Alan Sherman, Rachelle Kirshner, and Paul Brody were recognized for their dedication in bringing the community together for this meaningful evening.
Brenner, who has long amplified Jewish voices on the airwaves, set the tone with opening remarks on memory and resilience, reminding attendees that “September 11 reminds us of the fragility of life, the strength of unity, and the enduring power of faith.”
As the night closed, attendees stood together in solemn reflection – grieving, remembering, and drawing strength from one another. Sliwa’s words echoed the theme of the night: that remembrance is not only about honoring the past, but also about safeguarding the future.
By Robert Pearl
