VIDEO: Statement by Commissioner Nikki Fried on 20th Anniversary of 9/11

Tallahassee, Fla. — Today, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried released a video message marking the 20^th anniversary of the September 11^th terrorist attacks.

The video message can be downloaded here, viewed on Twitter, and reads as follows:

“Tuesday, September 11, 2001. It was a day that continues to live in infamy as we remember 2,977 lives that were lost. Everyone can recall where they were, what they were doing, when terror and tragedy struck America.

“It was a sunny morning in Gainesville, where I was a student government leader at the University of Florida. We all went immediately to the student union to meet with classmates trying to reach family in New York. I gathered around the TV with my sorority sisters, many of whom were New Yorkers.

“Everyone remembers how they felt that day. And after that, we came together – as one nation. We showed each other kindness and grace. We believed the best of our leaders, regardless of party.

“As we look back 20 years later after 9/11, and as we face new challenges we couldn’t foresee then, imagine what we could do if we come together once again. If we pledge our hearts to one another, we can truly be one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

“So as we mark 20 years since that fateful day of September 11, as we remember the lives lost and memories honored, above all else, let’s recommit ourselves to being citizens and Floridians together in America, still the greatest nation on Earth.”

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