Mayor Gallego Names Councilwoman O'Brien to Lead Commemoration of 9/11

PHOENIX—As the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks approaches, Mayor Kate Gallego announced today that Councilwoman Ann O’Brien (District 1) will lead the City of Phoenix’s commemoration efforts.

“Phoenix honors those we lost and recognizes the courage of the first responders, including those in our very own Arizona Task Force 1,” Mayor Gallego said. "As we mark this milestone, shared with America's 250th anniversary, we celebrate our commitment to one another, our community, and our country. Councilwoman O’Brien will lead this effort with a thoughtful approach to how Phoenix can come together in reflection.”

The City’s commemoration will be shaped by the voices of our residents, from Phoenix emergency personnel who responded to Ground Zero to young people who were not yet born on September 11, 2001. Arizona Task Force 1, 62 firefighters, police officers, doctors, and dog handlers traveled across the country to Ground Zero, where they worked near the smoldering toxic site digging out debris.

“I am honored to lead Phoenix’s efforts, and I approach this work with deep respect,” Councilwoman O’Brien said. “This is sacred work—rooted in remembrance and our shared commitment to one another.”

Mayor Gallego and Councilwoman O’Brien have initiated conversations to develop a meaningful and inclusive commemoration to mark this milestone anniversary. Additional details will be announced in the coming months.