ADL supports 'World Trade Center Cross'
Jewish group says inclusion of cross-shaped steel beams in permanent memorial to 9/11 victims 'does not constitute government endorsement of a religious message'
Related stories:
- 9/11 remembered in worldwide ceremonies ADL: 9/11 anti-Semitic theories 'alive and well'
- Ahmadinejad: US used 9/11 as excuse to start wars
"ADL fully supports the inclusion in the National September 11 Memorial and Museum of the metal beams in the shape of a cross found in the rubble at Ground Zero in the aftermath of the tragic attacks on 9/11," the Jewish group said in a statement.
"Allowing this cross to be included in the memorial along with other artifacts found at the site does not constitute government endorsement of a religious message.
"Rather, it is an acknowledgement that these beams – part of the infrastructure of one of the towers – acquired historical significance by giving comfort to many who lost loved ones in the attacks, as well as those who spent days and weeks sifting through the ash and debris.
"The beams have been a part of the scene at Ground Zero ever since 9/11, and their inclusion in the memorial is appropriate," the statement concluded.
Largest 9/11 Jewish commemorative event
Meanwhile Sunday, around 1,000 Jews from across the New York area came together in Scarsdale, New York, for a special commemorative ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the terror attacks on 9/11.
The ceremony took place during the “Day of Chesed, Service, and Remembrance,” a day-long event featuring charitable deeds sponsored by the JCC of Mid-Westchester and UJA-Federation of New York. It was most likely the largest 9/11 Jewish commemorative event that took place in the United States.
“It’s inspiring that we can come together in full force as Jews to join the country in remembering 9/11 through service. To honor that day by commemorating and doing good together, as individuals and as a vibrant American Jewish community, speaks to our values of caring for those in need and a yearning to make the world a better place to live,” said Richard Spitz, UJA-Federation’s Westchester Region Director.
- Follow Ynetnews on Facebook
