As the sun rises over the World Trade Center, the 9/11 anniversary commemorates the lives lost and reshaped by the devastating attacks.

But this solemn occasion is also forever intertwined with presidential campaign politics.

This year, President Joe Biden, former President Donald Trump, and Vice President Kamala Harris stood together at ground zero, just hours after their first debate.

What if we focused on the real victims and their stories instead of using this day to score political points?

The ceremony aimed to keep the focus on the victims, but politicians like Trump and Harris still managed to insert themselves into the observance.

What does this say about the current state of American politics?

Are they truly committed to honoring the dead, or is it just a photo opportunity?

Victims' relatives like Cathy Naughton and Korryn Bishop remind us that the pain of 9/11 is still raw and that every year, it doesn't get easier.

They urge us to remember the names and never forget, but is our society truly committed to doing so?

The war on terror has had far-reaching consequences, including the loss of innocent lives and the erosion of civil liberties.

We must also recognize the resilience of the American people and the ways in which they have come together to heal and rebuild.

The 9/11 anniversary is a reminder that our collective memory is fragile and easily manipulated.

It's up to us to ensure that we remember the victims and their stories, rather than using this day to perpetuate political divisions.

Remember the victims, reflect on the legacy of 9/11, and strive to move forward with empathy and understanding.

Remembering 9/11: A Day of Reflection, Politics, and Pain

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