Common Bonds Unite and Strengthen Us Once Again
By Mayor Rudy Giuliani
Last Monday, our City was once again struck with inexplicable tragedy
and sadness when American Airlines Flight 587 crashed in Belle Harbor,
Queens. And just like on September 11th, New Yorkers immediately stepped
up to help those in need and to mourn with those who lost loved ones.
Two parts of the City were hit particularly hard by the crash --
the Dominican-American neighborhood of Washington Heights and the
Rockaways section of Queens. These two communities are bolstered by
their strong religious faith, their patriotism and honor for country,
and their understanding of the importance of a strong community. Candlelight
vigils are being held throughout the City, where Dominican flags wave
proudly alongside American flags, and people gather to pray and show
their support for those who have lost loved ones. New Yorkers have
stood united, defiant and proud while living through the most challenging
times in our City's history.
On the day of the crash of Flight 587, I was especially saddened
to hear that the tragedy had struck in the Rockaways. This hard-working
community is filled with firefighters and police officers who protect
our City and financial workers who keep our economy thriving. Sadly,
this means that the Rockaways were deeply and disproportionately afflicted
by the attacks on the World Trade Center, and they continue to lay
to rest their brave sons and daughters. That another tragedy of this
scope could strike this neighborhood seems almost beyond belief.
Minutes after Flight 587 crashed into their backyards, the people
of Belle Harbor sprung into action, helping people away from the disaster
site and even using their own garden hoses to help douse the flames.
Meanwhile, local firefighters once again answered the call to duty,
and in an inspired effort they managed to put out the fire in a very
short amount of time. The quick response and active participation
of the Rockaways community minimized damage, and though they may be
gripped with sorrow, they also have much cause for pride.
The impact of Flight 587 was also quickly and deeply felt in Washington
Heights, which has the City's largest concentration of Dominican-Americans.
Upon hearing that the downed plane was indeed American Airlines Flight
587, most in this community immediately knew that they all had been
dealt a severe blow, for many of them had taken the same flight in
the past.
Dominican-Americans are one of New York's fastest--growing communities,
and they contribute enormously to the economic, civic and cultural
vitality of our City. Approximately one--fourth of Dominicans in New
York live in Washington Heights and neighboring Inwood, and their
strong bonds of community are perhaps now more important than ever,
as they help their fellow residents cope with their terrible losses.
In a city of five boroughs, eight million people, and over 120 different
languages and dialects, it is easy to see the differences between
the people who live in New York. In challenging times like these however,
our similarities and connections rise to the forefront and remind
us that more unites us than divides us. Our common dedication to building
communities, promoting democracy and freedom, and doing all we can
to help others in need has united our City and our Nation. And it
is these common strengths that will once again guide us in overcoming
yet another challenge.
Both of these communities have been asked to bear a disproportionate
amount of the City's recent sorrow and mourning, but I share in their
staunch faith and determination that things will get better and we
will emerge stronger than ever.
