FIU remembers 9/11, students promote togetherness

University marks 9/11 anniversary with moving tribute to the fallen.

By Martin Haro

FIU observed the eighth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on America with a day of remembrance that began with an early-morning flag ceremony at Modesto A. Maidique Campus (MMC), featuring the FIU Army ROTC.

Later, the FIU family attended a midday ceremony of remembrance in honor of the fallen and the “thousands of people around the world who are fighting for American freedom.” Bagpiper Mark Pinks led the FIU Army ROTC Color Guard as they marched into the GC Pit. Pinks also performed “Amazing Grace.” FIU alumna Janeta Jackson sang the national anthem.

Jackson later sang “This Little Light of Mine” as some of the more than 200 students, alumni, faculty/staff and administrators who gathered for the occasion placed votive candles arranged in the shape of a large “9/11.”

“Thank you for coming and joining today’s celebration,” Anthony Rionda, president of the Student Government Association-MMC, told the crowd.

Bob Coatie, senior director of Multicultural Programs and Services, introduced the day’s readings and prayers by members of the Catholic Campus Ministry, the Muslim Student Association and the Intervarsity Christian Fellowship.

Golden Panther Maggie Parker, a senior history student representing the Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, said she was “really” excited to participate in the 9/11 remembrance, “as a part of FIU…[and that] we had the Muslim and Catholic student organizations come together as people of faith to say that we want a better future together.”