Remembering 9/11: Coney Island Woman’s Citywide Memorial Pilgrimage
Coney Island resident Freyda Markow has become a symbol of remembrance and resilience in the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Every year on the anniversary of the attacks, Markow embarks on a pilgrimage across New York City to honor the memories of those who lost their lives on that fateful day and in its aftermath.
On the 23rd anniversary of the attacks, Markow began her day at the annual memorial ceremony at Ground Zero, carrying photos of victims she has come to know over the years. Among them was her cousin, firefighter George Cain, who tragically lost his life while responding to the South Tower.
Markow shared that this year was particularly emotional for her, as she has witnessed the next generation stepping in to represent the families who have lost loved ones. She expressed, “I know a lot of the parents are getting older. They can’t make that visit, so a lot of the children have taken over to represent the families they lost, the family that they never met.”
Supporting the Ground Zero Family
Markow refers to the friends she has made over the years as her “Ground Zero family.” This community of survivors supports each other year-round as they continue to cope with the devastating effects of the attacks. The group has grown over time as more individuals succumb to illnesses related to the dust and smoke from the collapse of the Twin Towers.
The World Trade Center Health Program was established in 2011 to provide medical monitoring and care for those suffering from 9/11-related health conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the WTCHP now serves over 127,000 individuals and has recorded 6,781 deaths from illnesses linked to exposure in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11.
Markow’s own experience on the morning of the attacks led her to dedicate nine months to volunteering at a Ground Zero relief center. She recalled, “It is just something you couldn’t walk away from, even if you were helping a little bit, one person at a time, it made a difference.”
Continued Dedication and Remembrance
Twenty-three years later, Markow remains committed to supporting the families of victims and preserving the memories of their loved ones. She volunteers with organizations such as the Brooklyn 9/11 Wall and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, providing ongoing assistance and comfort to those affected by the tragedy.
After the ceremony at the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum, Markow continues her pilgrimage of remembrance to Coney Island’s Asser Levy Park, where a local ceremony is held annually on September 11 to honor residents who perished in the attacks. Reflecting on this year’s event, Markow emphasized the enduring impact of loss on the community.
Markow’s day concludes at the Brooklyn 9/11 Wall of Remembrance by Maimonides Park, where she takes a private moment of reflection amidst the tributes left by loved ones. She stressed the importance of remembering and passing on the stories of those who lost their lives on 9/11, stating, “As hard as it is to remember, it will be way worse if people forget. So that’s what we do. We try to remember. We try to spread the word.”
In conclusion, Freyda Markow’s annual pilgrimage serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity that emerged in the face of tragedy on September 11, 2001. Her dedication to honoring the memories of the victims and supporting their families is a testament to the enduring spirit of remembrance and community in the wake of unspeakable loss.