VOICES November Newsletter
Dear Families and Friends,
VOICES 25th Anniversary Always Remember Gala is three weeks away, and our team is putting the finishing touches on what promises to be a memorable evening. Join us on Thursday, November 19th, at the New York Athletic Club to celebrate this milestone. If you’re planning to attend, registration closes soon.
Our September NYC Symposium brought together leading experts in mental health, public policy, emergency management, and law enforcement, along with professionals supporting the 9/11 Community. We believe in an informed community, so over the coming months we will share highlights of the presentations. Today, we begin with our keynote speakers - Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton, FBI Deputy Director Christopher Raia, Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, NYPD Rebecca Weiner, and Senator Richard Blumenthal.
Closer to home, we were reminded that disasters can strike unexpectedly. While hosting the Symposium in NYC, our Director of Emergency Management, Russ Kimes informed us that our office had flooded. Fortunately, the damaged items are replaceable, and this week we moved back into our renovated office. If we missed your call during the transition, we apologize.
With heavy hearts, we share that Emma, our beloved springer spaniel and VOICES CMO -Chief Morale Officer, passed away just shy of her 13th birthday. Her cheerful presence brightened our office, and she will be deeply missed.
As Thanksgiving approaches, we give thanks for your friendship and support and wish you and your family a wonderful holiday!
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With warm regards,
Mary Fetchet & the VOICES Team
VOICES 25th Anniversary
Always Remember Gala
Thursday, November 19th
Cocktail Reception – 6:00pm
Dinner/Program – 7:00pm to 10:00pm
Twenty-five years ago, the world changed on September 11, and VOICES was born to make sure no family, responder, or survivor would face the tragedy alone. This year, we invite you to join us at VOICES 25th Anniversary Always Remember Gala as we honor this important milestone.
We are delighted to welcome back award-winning journalist Brian Williams as our Master of Ceremonies. We are also proud to present this year’s Leadership Award to former CIA Director John Brennan. The award recognizes his distinguished career in intelligence and national security and his lifelong dedication to keeping our nation safe.
The evening will feature a special 25th Anniversary Tribute to the VOICES honorees whose generosity and leadership have shaped our legacy. Broadway star Rachel Gold will close out the night with a musical performance.
Every gift to the Gala keeps our mission alive. Your support funds VOICES long-term care for victims’ families, responders, and survivors. It also helps us share our 25 years of lessons learned so communities are better prepared to respond and recover when tragedy strikes.
Please join us as we remember, honor, and look ahead.
Note: The deadline for Sponsorships and Programs Ads is Friday, November 6th.
WTC Survivor Grief Study
VOICES is pleased to announce that the Uniformed Services University Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress (USUHS) has completed the multi-year WTC Survivor Grief Study. The 3-year study was led by Dr. Stephen Cozza principal investigator at USUHS. Voices Center for Resilience, Columbia University’s Center for Prolonged Grief and the WTC Health Registry were co-investigators. The goal of the study was to examine the combined effects of bereavement and trauma on the health-related quality of life among enrollees of the 9/11 WTC Health Registry Survivors. This study represents an important step toward deepening our understanding of the long-term emotional impact of 9/11 survivors, and the experience of those who live with its aftermath.
Findings from the study are expected to be presented to the WTC Research Committee in the spring. Results have been provided to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) demonstrating that prolonged grief disorder is a mental health condition among 9/11 survivors that is distinct from PTSD and that further detriments their quality of life, requiring clinical attention within the WTC Health Program. We look forward to sharing more details from this important research as they become available in order to continue our commitment to advancing understanding, recognition, and care for the 9/11 community.
Mary Fetchet Joins Secretary Hillary Clinton
Columbia University, September 9, 2026
On September 9th, VOICES Executive Director Mary Fetchet was honored to join Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton and other distinguished leaders at Columbia University’s Institute of Global Politics to mark the 25th anniversary of September 11th. The event, “The 9/11 Attacks 25 Years Later: Lessons Learned, Lessons Forgotten,” brought together policymakers, national security experts, victim advocates, and community leaders to reflect on the lasting impact of the attacks and the lessons that continue to shape our nation.
The panel “Building Back Stronger: New York’s Recovery and Lessons for Urban Resilience,” moderated by Ester R. Fuchs, Professor of International and Public Affairs, featured Secretary Clinton; Joseph Pfeifer, former FDNY First Deputy Commissioner; Kathryn Wylde, former President and CEO of the Partnership for New York City; and VOICES Executive Director Mary Fetchet. Drawing on their personal experiences in the aftermath of 9/11, the panelists reflected on the city’s path to recovery. Mary spoke about the long-term needs of victims’ families, survivors, and responders, and the importance of passing the lessons of 9/11 on to future generations.
For more information, click here.
VOICES Sharing Lessons Learned and Promoting Preparedness
This fall, VOICES Executive Director Mary Fetchet joined Sue O’Sullivan, Chair of INVICTM, to share lessons learned from 9/11 and subsequent acts of terrorism and mass violence with national and international security and law enforcement leaders.
On September 28th, they participated in “The Why: Remembering the Legacy of Victims and the Impact on the Future” at the Secure Venues Summit in Seattle, Washington. Moderated by Mike Downing, Chief Security Officer of Oak View Group and President of Prevent Advisors, the discussion explored how the experiences of victims, survivors, families, and responders must inform security planning and emergency response.
On October 24th, they presented “Preparing for and Responding to Terrorism and Mass Violence: Lessons Learned from 9/11 and Beyond” at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference in Orlando, Florida. This year’s conference was IACP’s largest ever, drawing more than 19,000 law enforcement leaders.
At both events, Mary and Sue drew on their lived experience and extensive work in victim advocacy to emphasize placing victims’ needs at the center of crisis response, from timely, compassionate communication and victim identification to long-term recovery and mental health support. They stressed that how victims are treated in the aftermath of a tragedy can have a lasting impact on their recovery, and that honoring those affected requires more than remembrance. It demands meaningful preparation, stronger collaboration, and a commitment to learning from past tragedies to better protect and support communities in the future.
Update on US Court of Appeals Ruling - JASTA
As of October 29, 2026, the 9/11 victims’ lawsuit against Saudi Arabia remains unresolved, awaiting a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit in New York. In August 2025, a federal judge ruled that the case could proceed, finding that Saudi Arabia had not established immunity from the lawsuit under the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA). Saudi Arabia appealed, and a three-judge panel heard arguments on October 7, 2026. A decision is not expected until early 2027.
The lawsuit alleges that Saudi officials or employees provided assistance to al-Qaeda operatives before the attacks, including claims that Saudi national Omar al-Bayoumi helped two hijackers with housing and other logistical support. Saudi Arabia denies involvement and maintains that it is protected by sovereign immunity. The appeals court is deciding whether the lawsuit may proceed, not whether Saudi Arabia is responsible for the attacks. No court has established its liability. If the appeal is rejected, the case could advance toward trial, allowing further evidence to be examined.
New Canaan Museum & Historical Society
Thank you Nancy Geary and Whitney Williams at the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society for hosting the VOICES of Reflection Art Exhibit. The exhibit invited visitors to reflect on the lasting impact of September 11, featuring commemorative quilts, an artifact recovered from the World Trade Center, and drawings and paintings. Together, these works honored the lives lost and the resilience of the 9/11 Community.
VOICES Executive Director Mary Fetchet led a Lunch and Learn at the museum. She spoke about her personal experience of September 11, how VOICES was founded, and lessons from the 25 years since. She stressed the importance of remembrance, community, and making sure the experiences of those affected continue to guide future generations.
Symposium Spotlight: Our Keynote Speakers
VOICES is committed to keeping our community informed. As a follow-up to our 25th Anniversary NYC Symposium, we are sharing highlights from our distinguished guests, beginning today with our four keynote speakers who reflected on the lessons of September 11th and the challenges that continue to shape our nation.
Rebecca Weiner, NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, reflected on 25 years of progress in public safety and stressed the importance of passing the lessons of 9/11 on to a new generation. View Remarks.
Christopher Raia, Deputy Director of the FBI, described how the Bureau’s approach to counterterrorism has evolved since 9/11. He emphasized the role of intelligence sharing, prevention, and strong partnerships in confronting emerging threats. View Remarks.
Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut reaffirmed his commitment to 9/11 families, survivors, and responders, highlighting ongoing work to advance health care, accountability, and access to justice. View Remarks.
Hillary Rodham Clinton, former Secretary of State and U.S. Senator who represented New York at the time of the attacks, spoke about the lasting impact of 9/11 and the resilience of the communities it touched. In conversation with journalist Andrea Mitchell, Secretary Clinton underscored the importance of preserving the lessons of that day, strengthening preparedness, and continuing to support those whose lives were forever changed. View Remarks.
Ode to Emma
VOICES CMO: Chief Morale Officer
For nearly 13 years, Emma, the beloved springer spaniel of the Fetchet family, held an important role at VOICES as our official mascot and resident Morale Officer.
With her sweet face and gentle spirit, Emma made the office feel like home. She greeted everyone with a wagging tail and always seemed to know who needed a little extra comfort. Our work often touches on grief and loss, and she reminded us of life’s simple joys. One interns adored her so much that they drew her portrait on our office whiteboard, where it remains today.
A couple of weeks ago, we said goodbye to Emma. We miss the sound of her paws in the hallway and the warmth that she brought to every day. Her portrait will stay on the whiteboard as a lasting tribute to a loyal friend who lifted our spirits for nearly 13 years.
Rest easy, sweet Emma. You will always be our Chief Morale Officer.
VOICES Office Floods – Being Prepared for Emergencies
On September 8th, we learned firsthand that emergencies can strike anywhere, at any time. While we were hosting our Symposium in New York City, we were notified that our office had flooded. As an organization that champions preparedness, we found ourselves putting into practice the very tips we share with our community. Fortunately, the items that were damaged are replaceable, and although a monumental task, with the help of our landlord, staff and a team of experts, this week we moved back into our renovated office.
By staying calm, communicating with one another, assessing the situation, and taking steps to protect our staff and resources, we relied on the same principles we encourage others to follow: be informed, have a plan, and be prepared to act. The experience reinforced that preparedness isn’t only about having the right supplies; it’s also about knowing how to respond when the unexpected happens.
Peer Support Groups
VOICES provides monthly virtual and in-person support groups, providing a welcoming opportunity to discuss shared experiences and resources to build resilience. Our groups are facilitated by our professional staff. Are you interested in joining our support groups or have a suggestion for a new group? Click here.
Survivors (2nd Wednesday, Virtual)
Wednesday, November 11th
12:00pm to 1:30pm EST
Survivors (3rd Wednesday, Virtual)
Wednesday, November 18th
12:00pm to 1:30pm EST
Victims' Family Members (Virtual)
Tuesday, November 10th
12:00pm to 1:30pm EST
Responders (Virtual)
Tuesday, November 17th
12:00pm to 1:30pm EST
Next Generation (Virtual)
Tuesday, November 3rd
9:30am to 11:00am
Parents Helping Parents (In-Person)
Wednesday, November 4th & 11th
9:30am to 11:00am