We express our heartfelt thanks to the ADL for the recognition of our grief and suffering which is evidenced in their statement: …“We are ever mindful of the tragedy which befell our nation there, the pain we all still feel – and especially the anguish of the families and friends of those who were killed on September 11, 200/...”

We agree with the ADL recommendation that a different location be found for this Center, because retaining the present location would be counterproductive to the healing process.  Healing of grief has not yet been achieved for so many of the 9/11 families, and especially for those 1,100 families who have never received any remains of their cherished loved ones. For all of us, Ground Zero is truly sacred ground, regardless of those public and private individuals who consider it merely commercial real estate.

We ask for tolerance, understanding and sensitivity for the families of the victims as well as for the honored dead - some of whose remains are still at Ground Zero. We remain extremely grateful for the courage and humanity of the Anti-Defamation League.

Deputy Chief Jim Riches, FDNY ret. & Rita Riches
Chairman, 9/11 Parents and Families of Firefighters & WTC Victims

Father of FF James Riches, E-4, WTC/9/11
 
Deputy Chief Al Santora, FDNY ret. & Maureen Santora
Parents of FF Christopher Santora, E-54,  WTC/9/11
 
Jim McCaffrey, LT/FDNY
Brother-in-law of B.C. Orio J. Palmer, Batt 7, WTC/9/11