September 11

This weekend, we honor the memories of all those who tragically lost their lives 21 years ago on September 11th, including the more than than 600 who were members of New York City unions. In addition to the first responders who were lost rushing to the aid of others, these included restaurant workers, communications workers, building trades workers and others in the World Trade Center and surrounding areas.

In the weeks and months that followed, workers from all walks of life and nearly fifty unions showed up to help, moving people to and from affected areas, building lighting structures to assist in rescue operations, cleaning up wreckage, rebuilding communications systems, and more. Many who answered the call have since developed chronic health conditions or died of illnesses caused by exposure to WTC contaminants.

The James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act established the WTC Health Program in 2011 to provide healthcare to these 9/11 responders and survivors. Visit NYCOSH's World Trade Center Health Program page for more information on eligibility and how to apply.