To mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, APS and The Kansas City Public Library are screening the new documentary, 9/11: Reclaiming Ground Zero. Released in June 2026, it tells the story of Americans coming together to determine the future of the twin towers site in Manhattan after the tragedy killed nearly 3,000 people and injured more than 6,000 others. The issue of rebuilding—when, what, and how—was highly charged. In July 2002, AmericaSpeaks gathered more than 5,000 people from all five New York City boroughs and the surrounding area to discuss six proposals for rebuilding Ground Zero. These redevelopment plans were overwhelmingly rejected. Many argued that rebuilding quickly to increase the site’s real estate value did not properly honor the tragedy and put profit before people. Instead, participants wanted the buildings’ footprints to stay as a reminder of what happened. This public forum, the largest town hall in American history, helped shape plans for the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and One World Trade Center. Following the presentation, there will be a brief conversation with the filmmakers.
Free popcorn will be provided from our friends at Velvet Creme located at 4710 Belinder Rd., Westwood, KS 66205.
Doors open at 5:30 PM for a light reception: the film will begin at 6 PM.
