Highland Park Remembers 9/11 on 25th Anniversary

The City of Highland Park held a September 11, 2001, 25th Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony at Ravinia Festival Bennett Gordon Hall. The event occurred on Friday, September 11, 2026, with weather reminiscent of 9/11/2001, featuring blue skies and sunny conditions similar to those in New York City.

Inside Bennett Gordon Hall, the seats were filled with Lake County elected officials, including representatives from Highland Park and Highwood. The ceremony began at 9 a.m. and lasted under an hour. The North Suburban Special Recreation Association led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Soloist Clara Gillis, a 17-year-old senior of Highland Park High School, sang the national anthem. Despite not being alive during 9/11/2001, Gillis expressed profound gratitude for participating in the event. Gillis stated, “I’m incredibly honored to sing the national anthem and take part in this remembrance.”

The ceremony commenced with the Highland Park Police and Fire Honor Guard placing the colors, followed by an invocation from Rabbi Michael Schwab of North Suburban Synagogue Beth El. Mayor Nancy R. Rotering addressed the audience, recalling the tragic events of 25 years prior.

“Twenty-five years ago, people in Highland Park and across the country watched in horror as terrorists weaponized civilian aircraft, leading to the death of 2,977 people,” Rotering said. “Each person impacted was unique and beloved.”

The ceremony included keynote remarks from Chief of Police Louis Jogmen and Fire Chief Joseph Schrage, accompanied by a moment of silence. Jogmen emphasized the importance of educating youth on the impact of that day, noting that it serves as a history lesson for younger generations.

Schrage highlighted the firefighters from Highland Park who assisted in rescue efforts in New York City, recognizing those who experienced similar service. Two audience members stood to acknowledge their involvement.

Schrage acknowledged the first responders who traveled to New York, bearing witness to the mourning families of the 300 firefighters who perished while serving. Mike Moore of the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band concluded the program by sounding “Taps” on the bagpipes.

The ceremony ended with the Highland Park High School string quintet performing as attendees began leaving the auditorium. U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider (D-10th) of Highland Park reflected on the national unity achieved after 9/11, stating, “We need to draw that spirit to reunite the nation 25 years later.”