Statement on the 25th Anniversary of September 11

Today marks 25 years since the September 11 attacks. It’s a solemn day to remember the nearly 3,000 people killed that day in 2001 and to honor rescue workers and impacted families.  

It’s also a day that reminds us of increased surveillance, discrimination, and violence against Muslim, Arab, South Asian, and Sikh communities. That burden hasn't dissipated over the last 25 years, and anti-Muslim activity has escalated in recent months. Western States Center stands with Muslim, Arab, South Asian, and Sikh communities as they navigate this anniversary, and we reject any rhetoric that blames entire communities for the actions of a few. 

Check in on each other. Get involved in organizing against bigotry in your community. Access community safety resources like the Bridging Divides Initiative's Active Bystander Intervention and De-Escalation Guide for best practices and our Recommendations for Responding to the Presence of Hostile Propagandists. 

As we grieve, we organize. Western States Center will keep training leaders, resourcing movements, and sharing political education to protect democracy and build the inclusive future we all deserve.