To the Editor:
Jenn Schaffer’s commentary, “Why Have We Forgotten 9/11?” has sparked much controversy among readers of The Phillipian. Three weeks ago, Ms. Schaffer claimed that the PA administration made a conscious decision not to commemorate 9/11, because of its “determination to be an international school.” Following the article’s publication, two letters to the editor have presented contrasting views, promoting a discussion on “the day that altered the course of history for us all.” However, in the flurry of heated debate, a most fundamental fact has been overlooked; whatever the circumstance, 9/11 simply cannot be forgotten. Ms. Schaffer failed to provide any evidence on the supposed connection between the absence of a 9/11 commemoration and Andover’s “determination to be an international school.” As Erica Harris, the writer of the first letter to the editor, noted, Phillips Academy is not an international school, but rather an American school with international students. While I respect Ms. Schaffer’s bold attempt to step outside the comfort zone, I recoil at her McCarthyist accusation that undermines the unity of our school. “Andover has forgotten that it is located in Andover, Massachusetts, United States,” wrote Ms. Schaffer. For some reason, she forgot to mention the rest of the planet. Ms. Harris responded that there is a need to “move on” and correct “narrow-minded,” “U.S.-centric” perceptions. Jacob Shack, the author of the second letter to the editor, “grimaced” at Harris’s statement. In support of Ms. Schaffer, Mr. Shack labeled “the kind of behavior Andover displayed” on September 11, 2007, i.e. the absence of a school-wide commemoration, as “wrong.” Indeed, there are benefits in organizing a formal commemoration. It brings the community together and makes the school look better. For some reason, we did not have a silent prayer during ASM at the appropriate day or a memorial service with the American flag at half-mast this year. However, this does not imply we are “wrong,” “unpatriotic” or “shameful.” Phillips Academy is a mature community that values individual responsibility. We strive to serve the community not just on Non Sibi Day. We work towards world peace not just on MLK Day. I believe a formal commemoration or a national holiday serves a mere ceremonial purpose, because the human condition transcends time and place. The students’, faculty members’, and administrators’ reflections on 9/11, a tragedy that will never be forgotten, simply went unnoticed. I urge those who earn satisfaction in a formal environment to take the initiative next year. An article in the commentary section has erupted into a worthy discussion about 9/11’s meaning to our generation. 9/11 is an undying memory for American and international students. We have not succumbed to grief. We walk on, yet we do not forget the irreparable loss of human life. We remember 9/11, with or without a formal commemoration. Sincerely, Hoonie Moon ’10
