The Vision

The white paper is symbolic of all the millions of pieces of paper that were released into the sky, raining down like ticker tape. The wind carried it for miles, as so we would travel for miles reaching the hearts of people from all over.

The colorful ink pens used to sign the banner was representational of creating a fresh rainbow which occasionally appears after a clearing storm. It can be seen as pure inspiration and hope.

The scale of the banners was to approximate in scale, the area of ground zero. It was intended that all the individual sections (16 total) would be sewn together as one. This defined unity, and togetherness. It was symbolic of the combined threads of a fabric that take form, and become functional with time, and dedication to rebuilding. This will render something useful and positive, like a warm, safe, and familiar blanket.

The signatures were made one at a time, and in small groups and gatherings. Each one was met with deep felt emotions and careful consideration. Many visits were made to Fire & Police Departments, Rescue Stations, Government and City Buildings, and Public Locations.

The banner was always laid on the ground, welcoming participants to kneel in respect of the memorial piece while writing. We wanted the soil and grit from each state’s location to remain as reminders of the wonderful cultural diversity that made America, NYC, and the WTC what it is.

It was further intended that the banner be covered front and back, inch to inch, with the exception of the back side of four panels. The idea behind this was, what would appear is two white stripes, making Twin Towers, or an 11. This space was also symbolic of the hallowed site that can only be filled with a moment of silence, and prayer. For our thoughts will always be with those we lost.

Ultimately our intentions were for the banner to be displayed hanging on center in an open space. The idea for this was that for all who come in contact with it now, or prior, could proudly hold their heads up, while walking all around it, individually and simultaneously together. The interaction with others while doing so would be inevitable. This again represents the melting pot of our nation, our unbreakable spirit and pride, and the ability to come together for the common goodwill of all fellow human beings.

The banner would cross many borders and boundaries. It would visit many cultures, ways and means of life, and that that represented the hopes and dreams of our future generations. It is for them to learn from our mistakes, improve upon them, and alter the course of history from repeating itself. The banner is best seen as desire to communicate the importance of peace, love, and understanding.