For many New Yorkers, September 11 is a sacrosanct day of reflection and mourning when 2,977 people were murdered by radical Islamic terrorists in 2001. With the passing of 23 years since that fateful day, there is now an entire generation of New Yorkers who were not alive to experience the tragedies that occurred, which has prompted New York State Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) to introduce legislation that would require by state law that 9/11 be taught in all of New York’s schools.
“Having lived through 9/11, we know this is not just American history but New York history, and our communities here in the 94th Assembly District have a direct connection to it,” explained Slater. “Every year, we say we never forget, and by requiring this by state law, we will ensure future generations will understand this pivotal moment in our history, the tragedies that occurred and also the heroes like Joe Spor who saved countless lives that day.”
Slater’s proposal, titled “The Joseph Spor 9/11 Remembrance Curriculum,” is named after Somers resident Joe Spor Sr., who as a member of Rescue 3 was killed on 9/11 responding to the emergency in the South Tower. Slater was joined by Colleen Spor (wife of Joe), Caitlin Spor (daughter of Joe), more than 75 members of the FDNY Retirees Hudson Valley East, Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, Putnam County Clerk Michael Bartolotti, Somers Supervisor Rob Scorrano, Putnam Valley Supervisor Jacqueline Annabi, Putnam County Legislator Erin Lee Crowley and Carmel Councilman Robert Kearns.
“Now more than ever it is important for future generations to understand the importance that 9/11 brings to instill the importance of never forgetting all those who made the ultimate sacrifice, like my father, 23 years ago,” said Caitlin Spor.
Currently, there is no statutory requirement for schools to teach 9/11. The New York State Education Department provides guidelines for global studies and social studies that include 9/11. By embedding it into state law, it ensures 9/11 is taught in New York’s schools. In recent years, the state Legislature took the same steps regarding Holocaust curriculum.
“Putting 9/11 in the mandated curriculum ensures our future generations are properly taught about what happened 23 years ago. This is a common-sense policy, and I’m glad that Assemblyman Matt Slater has introduced this legislation,” added Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne.
“We started this organization, which now has 280 members, to lean on each other, and this new legislation is fantastic and is about time,” said Tom Lynch, President of the FDNY Retirees Hudson Valley East.
“Education is the key. We made the promise to never forget and, somehow, we are slipping farther away from that promise. And that needs to change. I’m so glad Assemblyman Matt Slater has started introducing this legislation,” said Somers Town Supervisor Rob Scorrano.
“I applaud Assemblyman Matt Slater for his efforts in what should be an obvious thing to do by having every school teach about 9/11. This is a pivotal moment in American history, and it needs to be in our education fabric. We must never forget and always remember,” said Putnam County Clerk Mike Bartolotti.
“Teaching about 9/11 in our schools is crucial for shaping informed and empathetic citizens, which we need now more than ever. By ensuring our students learn from the past, we empower them to build a more understanding and united future. I appreciate Assemblyman Matt Slater for leading the charge on this legislation,” said Putnam County Legislator Erin Lee Crowley.
“In a moment when most people would run away, first responders like Joseph Spor and countless others ran toward the danger, risking their lives. This tragedy ignited a passion in me to enlist in the military. I want to thank Assemblyman Matt Slater for spearheading this and bringing this legislation to the State. We are grateful to have a leader like you up in Albany,” said Carmel Town Councilman Robert Kearns.
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