Curtis Sliwa Headlines Solemn 9/11 Memorial In Queens

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Twenty-four years after the terror attacks of September 11, 2001, the Queens Jewish community gathered at the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills for a moving night of reflection, unity, and remembrance. Hosted by Talkline CEO Zev Brenner, the memorial drew civic leaders, rabbinic figures, and neighbors together to honor the victims and reaffirm the city’s resilience. Brenner, who has long amplified Jewish voices through his broadcasts, opened the evening with words on memory and resilience. “September 11 reminds us of the fragility of life, the strength of unity, and the enduring power of faith,” he said, setting the tone for the program.

 

Sliwa’s Call to Remember

The featured speaker was Guardian Angels founder and Republican New York City mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa. A short video montage introduced his remarks, recalling the tragic events of that morning with footage of Sliwa broadcasting live alongside his then-radio partner Ron Kuby on WABC, as well as clips from his later television interviews recounting the aftermath.

At the podium, Sliwa delivered a powerful speech blending historical perspective with personal conviction. He recalled his own efforts at Ground Zero in the days after the attack and spoke passionately about the need to teach 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 New York City schools.

Sliwa also addressed the growing tide of antisemitism at home and abroad, urging parents and grandparents to instill “tough love” and historical awareness in younger generations. He emphasized that solidarity, vigilance, and education are the keys to ensuring history does not repeat itself.

 

Voices of Leadership & Faith

NYC Council Member Bob Holden also addressed the packed sanctuary, 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, praising Sliwa’s record of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Jewish communities during times of crisis.

The evening included prayers and T’hilim led by Rabbi Daniel Rosenfelt, rav of the hosting shul, who described the memorial as “a sacred obligation of the heart to remember.” Yoni Hikind added poignant reflections, speaking of the vulnerability many Jews now feel on campuses and in public spaces, and drawing parallels between 9/11 and the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel.

 

Music & Community Strength

Music lifted the atmosphere as Great Neck activist Dr. Paul Brody, accompanied on piano by his daughter Tali, led the singing of the national anthems of both the United States and Israel. Organizers—including Alan Sherman, Rachelle Kirshner, Tziporah Feldman, and Dr. Brody—were recognized for their dedication in bringing the community together for such a meaningful program.

As the evening drew to a close, attendees stood together in solemn reflection—grieving, remembering, and drawing strength from one another. Sliwa’s words carried the night’s message: remembrance is not only about honoring the past, but about safeguarding the future.

In Kew Gardens Hills, once again, the community stood united—determined to remember and resolved to pass on the lessons of faith, strength, and resilience to future generations.