Statement of the Public Health Association of New York City

Adopted by the Executive Committee, in a meeting by conference call, Monday, September 17, 2001.

 Friends and colleagues from throughout the United States and many other nations have sent messages of condolence and inspiration to PHANYC and have inquired about public health work in the face of such tragedy. PHANYC mourns the loss of so many lives in New York City, Washington, and Pennsylvania as a result of terrorism. PHANYC honors and supports the firefighting, police, construction, medical, public health, and other personnel who have performed such extraordinary and courageous services for our people. PHANYC condemns all acts of terrorism, which can wound and destroy not only the lives of individuals but also community well-being and public health. PHANYC pledges to continue to work for a broad public health response to the catastrophe, which includes:

Care - Support for

  • Medical and social service assistance for the surviving victims and their families
  • Mental health services and counseling for relatives and others close to those who have died or are missing
  • Public health, medical and other workers who have provided and continue to provide these essential services

Well-being - Promotion and protection of

  • Conditions that support the health of the people of New York City
  • Medical and public health services, including environmental and occupational health services, for all in New York City
  • The public health infrastructure of New York City, which is required both in extraordinary times and to meet the continuing needs of our people
  • Respect for every person and avoidance of recrimination against any person or group in New York City and, more broadly, maintenance of civil liberties and human rights
  • Efforts to deal with the long-term consequences of the tragedy for New York City, the nation and the world

Justice and Peace - Advocacy of

  • National policies that seek punishment under international law of perpetrators of violence rather than retaliation and perpetuation of conflict and violence
  • Renunciation of use of force for vengeance and war against populations, which can wound and destroy not only the lives of individuals but also community well-being and public health
  • City, national and international policies that seek to alleviate some of the antecedents of the tragedy, including social and economic disparities, health disparities, injustices and violations of human rights that contribute to conflict and violence

PHANYC welcomes the help of all who are concerned about the health of our people.
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