Amidst covid-19 pandemic, the 19th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks was marked by former Vice President Joe Biden who urged for unity and denounced the divisions among the nation.
On the somber occasion of the remembered events of 9/11, Biden addressed how recent developments had taken the country further away from one another. He mentioned that the United States had been “driven apart,” and that the country was not able to gain back its footing that it had lost in the last few years.
In an emotional speech, Biden lamented the range of divisions that currently threaten the State such as restricted civil rights, racial injustice, lack of economic stability, and the shocking inequities that pervade society. He noted that the degree of violence in America today occurs despite the country having overcome substantially greater tribulations during the last two decades.
Biden warned that the failures of the government’s security measures over the years had opened a Pandora’s box of intolerance and prejudice. He noted how the ability and freedom of speech and assembly was now taken for granted and that fear remained a formidable obstacle that still hindered the process of healing and progress.
Biden urged Americans to come together despite their differences: to strengthen unity, cultivate empathy, and focus on the core values that once enabled national greatness. He concluded his address by stating that the commemoration of 9/11 reminded of the need for a nation of resilient, brave and determined individuals.
The speech of Biden embodied the legacy of closure, peace, and empathy which was sought after by the uniting force of 9/11 heroes. It was a voice of hope for the nation, to draw courage from the memories of the past and create a just and promising future.
