BBG networks cover 9/11 anniversary
U.S international media is covering the 15th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks with a variety of programming highlighting observances, the attacks’ legacy on its survivors and the effect on the United States relations with the outside world.
From New York
Reporters from Voice of America’s Spanish Branch have planned live broadcasts from New York City on September 11th and 12th. Their anniversary programming also includes an interview with Jose Ortiz, a fireman who was a first responder on site at the Pentagon.
A Ukrainian-American police officer, who died rescuing people from the rubble of the World Trade Center buildings, will be profiled by VOA’s Ukrainian service.
An interview airing on VOA’s Armenian service’s Weekly Magazine features the family of an Armenian-American who died in the attacks, and explores the sense of loss felt by those left behind.
The service also speaks with NYC restaurant owner Shant Budagyan who opened his business to provide refuge to those in need during the aftermath of the towers collapse.
Also going live from New York is VOA’s Russian Service which live streamed Friday’s parade honoring police and first responders who died in the attacks.
At the Pentagon
George Washington University professor Bruce Powers discusses his memories of the attack on the Pentagon with VOA Albanian. Powers was working as a Pentagon defense analyst at the time, and was on the job that fateful day.
VOA’s Russian service will air video packages and a Facebook Live stream featuring interviews with relatives of victims attending Sunday’s ceremony at the defense headquarters.
Other Areas
Alhurra will air a series of reports from the Middle East and the United States on efforts to fight radicalization. From Iraq, the network examines how the Sept. 11th attacks have impacted Iraqis over the last 15 years. Other coverage will include interviews with the children of 9/11 victims, who were inspired to either join the military or work on global peace initiatives.
Radio Sawa’s programming features discussions on the change in U.S. foreign policy towards the Middle East since the attacks, and how the emergence of ISIL tarnished the Arab-American’s efforts to fight stereotyping. Radio Sawa will also stream the Arab American Institute’s National Day of Service and Remembrance live on social media.