The Coral Gables, Florida City Commission voted unanimously this week to make September 11 an official day of remembrance, following a series of dismissive comments from Mayor Vince Lago.
“The hatred and misguided devotion that led to these murders [lors du 11 septembre] still exist today. The answer to this hatred is to never forget the love demonstrated by those who sacrificed their lives to save others, General Chairman Edward Kelly says at the commission’s September 10 meeting. only). I ask the commission to lead the way, to ensure that 9/11 is remembered forever in Coral Gables. »
City Commissioner Kirk Menendez introduced the ordinance after Mr. Lago chose September 11 to unveil a clock celebrating the city’s centennial. Coral Gables was incorporated on April 25, 1925 (link in English only).
“Stop trying to cover your tracks. You are all invited to come on the 11th. September and to smile, Mr. Lagos told the municipal commission on August 27. Also, the 11. September is not a national holiday: It is also not a municipal or state holiday. I requested this information from the clerk. Ultimately, therefore, it is not a national holiday. »
Mr. Lago’s defiance infuriated city commissioners and residents. Coral Gables Local 1210 urged the mayor to change course, emphasizing that September 11 was a day of mourning and not a day of celebration to inaugurate a clock. Mr Kelly wrote to Mr Lago asking him to apologize for his insensitive remarks.
Although the inauguration of the clock was ultimately rescheduled, Mr. Lago persisted during the debate on the municipal decree relating to September 11.
After declaring that he was “ […] critically important that we remember and honor the significance of 9/11 […] “, Mr. Lago pivoted and condemned the controversy saying it was ” […] of a political maneuver aimed at sullying my name. ».
“It’s very easy to smear me and try to destroy me because of a comment taken out of context,” he said. But please don’t come and tell me I don’t respect you. »
Commissioner Melissa Castro insisted that Mr. Lago apologize. “I don’t feel obligated to do it,” he replied. Let’s move on. »
« The 11th. September is not just a date on the calendar. It is a day when we solemnly remember and honor those we have lost, says Walt Dix, vice president of the 12e district. The mayor’s failure to recognize this significance shows a lack of respect for those who gave their all that day. Politics and ego should not overshadow the importance of 9/11. ».
Mr. Dix congratulates union leaders for their commitment:
“I am proud of how IAFF, district, state and local leaders have come together to urge the City to change course. I am also grateful to the Coral Gables City Commissioners who supported Local 1210.”
Local 1210 President David Perez agrees:
“Local 1210 thanks Commissioner Menendez for his leadership and political courage in sponsoring this item and correcting the mistake made. We appreciate the support of his colleagues, Commissioners Melissa Castro and Ariel Fernandez, for upholding Coral Gables’ 9/11 municipal ordinance and not referring it to other levels of government. »
