MOUNT VERNON — Cornell College will mark the first anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks with two observances and courses this month that focus on the event with discussions, assignments or a break from class to reflect on the impact of the attacks.
A sunset observance is Tuesday, Sept. 10, from 7:30 to 8 p.m. at Ink Pond. Lanterns and candles carrying messages of hope and healing – written by students, faculty and staff — will float on the manmade pond. The service will include songs, poems and prayers from around the world. In case of rain, the event is Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 8 p.m.
The tradition of floating lanterns originated after the bombing of Hiroshima during World War II. Many who were severely injured in the August 1945 bombing threw themselves into the rivers to escape the unbearable heat and pain. Several years later, the survivors and citizens floated lanterns praying that their parents and friends killed by the atomic bomb would rest in peace.
A second observance is set for Wednesday, Sept. 11, from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. outside Allee Chapel. The service will include the dedication of a Peace Pole, plus poetry, songs and words of hope and healing. The Chaplain’s Office is coordinating both events.
Students in a sociology course, Families in Social Context, will read about the impact of war on families, but the class will not meet Sept. 11, allowing students time to “reflect on this topic,” said Tina Fetner, assistant professor of sociology and anthropology.
In U.S. Social History Since 1940, students will consider how Americans commemorate the past through memorials. They will examine four sketches of potential memorials for the World Trade Center site, then design their own memorials and explain how their design represents the events of Sept. 11 for visitors to the site.