On September 12, Richard Ruyal, a former New York firefighter and one of the first responders to the September 11 incident, redefined the legacy of this event by sharing his experiences from that bitter day. He stated that this incident is not just a historical day, but a living history that continues to impact people's lives.
Trauma and Its Consequences
Ruyal specifically pointed to the negative effects of this day on the first responders, saying, "The remembrance of this day reactivates trauma every year." He mentioned the illnesses that these individuals have experienced due to exposure to the polluted air at Ground Zero and emphasized that the consequences of this incident still exist in their lives even after several decades.
He also noted that the first responders were not properly informed about the existing dangers and called for accountability and healthcare provision for those who were exposed to these pollutants. Ruyal said, "We were not well informed about the dangers we faced, and now it is time to demand accountability from the authorities."
Call for Global Unity
Richard Ruyal further emphasized that the world needs each other and must come together. He recalled the empathy and global solidarity in the days following September 11 and stated that this feeling must be revived. Ultimately, he urged everyone to come together in memory of those who lost their lives in this incident and to think of a brighter future.
