Today in History: The 9/11 Memorial Lights Illuminate the Sky

By Y.M. Lowy

Do you know those powerful beams of light that light up the night sky every year in New York City to honor those lost on September 11, 2001? Well, those lights, part of the 9/11 Memorial, were first lit on this day in history. 

In March of 2002, six months after the tragic events of September 11, 2001, New York City introduced the “Tribute in Light,” a powerful art installation honoring those who lost their lives. This installation features 88 high-intensity spotlights arranged to project two vertical columns of light into the night sky, symbolizing the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Initially lit from March to April 2002, the Tribute in Light has since become an annual tradition, lighting up the sky every September 11.