2025 NYC Symposium | September 10th
September 10th | 9/11 Community
Victims' Families, Responders, Survivors, and Providers
New York Marriott Downtown
85 West Street, New York City
VOICES New York City Symposium on Wednesday, September 10th was presented in collaboration with our 9/11 Partners and professionals who have devoted their careers to assisting those impacted by 9/11.
The program underscored VOICES mission to provide long-term support for victims’ families, responders, and survivors, while offering important updates on ongoing issues including mental health, medical care, litigation, and compensation. The day also created an opportunity for the 9/11 Community to gather in advance of the Anniversary.
The two-day Symposium began on September 9th with sessions that brought together international professionals in law enforcement, counterterrorism, emergency management, corporate security, and victim-support agencies. Those conversations set the stage for September 10th, which focused on the unique and ongoing needs of the 9/11 Community.
September 10th Schedule
Welcome/Candlelighting Ceremony
Remembrance, Reflection, Resilience
Former Chief of Department Port Authority Police, and Commander of Joint Terrorism Task Force (FBI)
Firsthand Accounts:
Witnessing the Proceedings of the Military Commission at Guantanamo Bay
Panelists will share an overview of the history of the Commission and their personal experiences of what it’s like to be present during the pre-trial hearings. The proceedings have been mired in legal challenges, delays, and controversy—raising difficult questions about accountability, and the enduring impact on victims' families as they await the official Military Commission trials.
Former Chief of Department Port Authority Police, and Commander of Joint Terrorism Task Force (FBI)
Pursuing Justice: Legal Proceedings 20+ Years After 9/11
An expert panel will provide updates on the decades-long struggle for justice and accountability from all parties responsible for 9/11 and the repercussions this has had on the lives impacted.
Psychosocial and Community Resilience in Times of Crisis
This session explores practical and innovative approaches to building resilience in the wake of terrorism, mass violence, and disaster. Presenters will share new tools, training models, and personal insights on psychosocial response and recovery - highlighting efforts in Canada and beyond. Attendees will gain insight into how trauma-informed, peer-led, and community-based strategies can support long-term healing and systemic preparedness.
Chief of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Canada; Associate Professor, McMaster University
Director, Resilience in Unity - Chief of Secretariat, APPG Terrorism and Security
Lunch Break
Update on the Victim Compensation Fund
Special Master Allison Turkel will provide an update on the VCF including the number of pending cases. This will be followed by an expert panel who will discuss the continuing challenges of proof and presence and other difficulties the 9/11 Community faces when attempting to receive compensation for illnesses resulting from exposure to toxic air.
The Ripple Effect: How Community Support Strengthens Recovery
In the wake of life-altering tragedies, individuals often carry profound and enduring emotional burdens. This panel will discuss the trajectory of trauma, loss and unresolved grief. Panelists will provide practical strategies for building resilience.
Update on WTC Health Program Funding Legislation
Once again, 9/11 health advocates are seeking Congressional approval for future fund to continue the program that provides a lifeline of services to the 9/11 responder and survivor communities. The panel will give an overview of the challenges, calls to action and potential consequences.
Let’s Talk About It! Continuing the Conversation
This session provides an opportunity for attendees to further discuss key takeaways from the presentation. Presenters will offer prompts to encourage peer-to-peer support by sharing personal stories, practical strategies, and insights into creating supportive environments in your communities.
City Council Resolution 560
Panelists will discuss the City Council Resolution 560 ordering the City Department of Investigation to Investigate what the City of New York knew about the dangers of the toxic chemicals at Ground Zero.
Looking Ahead to the 25th Anniversary
This panel will explore the approaching 25th anniversary of 9/11, highlighting both reflections on the past and plans as we look ahead to this important milestone. Panelists will discuss upcoming initiatives, commemorations, and ways to ensure the legacy of remembrance and resilience continues for future generations.
Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES)Founded in the aftermath of 9/11, Voices Center for Resilience, (formerly Voices of September 11th) provides long-term support and access to mental health care and resources for thousands of victims' families, responders and survivors. VOICES collaborates with its partners to assist communities to prepare for, respond to and recover from tragedies, in the United States and abroad. With an emphasis on providing support, education and training, VOICES comprehensive, victim-centered approach underscores a commitment to promote resilience in the lives of those impacted and builds bridges between communities affected by tragedy.
Leadership in Counter Terrorism Alumni Association (LinCT-AA)Since its inception in 2008, the LinCT-AA has brought together senior police and intelligence leaders from the “Five Eyes” – Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States – to promote personal and professional development, networking, exchange of good practices, and global thinking. LinCT-AA leaders continue to ensure that victims have been included in and considered as essential partners in the discussions and the work of the association.
The International Network Supporting Victims of Terrorism and Mass Violence (INVICTM)Created in 2016, INVICTM brings together trusted experts dedicated to improving support for victims of terrorism and mass violence. The strength of INVICTM lies in the ability to share lessons learned, leverage the knowledge and expertise of its members and their networks, to influence change and turn research into action within our own countries and globally. The group of over 30 international members includes NGOs, law enforcement agencies, civil society members and other experts that provide information based upon their background, country and professional perspective.
NYPD ShieldThe NYPD Shield program is a public-private partnership, established in 2005 by the New York City Police Department (NYPD) Its mission is to strengthen collaboration between the NYPD and private security professionals, as well as serve as a communication platform with private-sector entities on security and counterterrorism-related matters. Through this program, the NYPD shares information and resources with leading security professionals and law enforcement agencies worldwide, creating a force multiplier in the fight against terrorism. By engaging both private and public sector leaders, the NYPD aims to prevent potential terrorist attacks and enhance overall security within New York City and beyond.
Thank You to Our Partners & Sponsors
Commemorative Sponsor
Remembrance Sponsors
Presenting Sponsors
Supporting Sponsors
Friends of VOICES
ASIS
EbodyGuard
McCann Protective Services
National Mass Violence Center
Saadian Technologies
Zencity
In Partnership With
In Affiliation With
