New 9/11 Museum Show Highlights How Some 'Turned Grief Into Action'

From mural-size photos to tiny artifacts, "In Their Honor: 25 Years of 9/11 Inspired Service" presents a picture of volunteerism and action that emerged from that day. Photo: Carl Glassman/Tribeca Trib

A new exhibit at the 9/11 Memorial Museum looks not back at the tragedy, but forward to the inspiration from that day to do good. “In Their Honor: Twenty-Five Years of 9/11-Inspired Service” presents the objects and stories of people and organizations that speak to what the museum’s president, Beth Hillman, called “turning grief into action.”

“People responded to loss not by turning inward, but by reaching outward,” Hillman said during a preview of the show. Their efforts, she added, “have touched lives in countless ways through volunteerism, public service, military service, civic engagement, philanthropy, education, advocacy, and acts of kindness, large and small.”

“Feathers of the Phoenix” is the show’s centerpiece. The papier-mâché sculpture is comprised of children’s artwork honoring family members who were victims of the 9/11 attacks. Sporting a 15-foot wingspan, the giant sculpture symbolizes the myth of the phoenix’s flight from its own ashes. 

“We’re especially grateful to everyone whose stories are represented,” Hillman said. “They remind us that tragedy gives rise to purpose, memory can inspire action, and each of us has a role to play in keeping our promise to never forget.”