As the nation prepares to observe the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the Oak Lawn Public Library is inviting the community to reflect on the lives, sacrifice and resilience that emerged from one of America’s darkest days.
The library will host “Oak Lawn’s September 11 Memorial: Artist Reflections and Reception” on Thursday, Aug. 20, featuring sculptor Erik Blome, whose towering “Heralds of 9/11” memorial has stood as a tribute to first responders in Oak Lawn for the past 15 years.
The event also serves as the final program in the library’s summer series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, shifting the focus from celebration to remembrance.
“The program recognizes both the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and the 15th anniversary of Oak Lawn’s 9/11 Memorial, ‘Heralds of 9/11,'” said Alexander Ewell, marketing associate at the Oak Lawn Public Library.
Many may pass the 22-foot monument at the Metra Oak Lawn Patriot Station without knowing the story behind it. Created while Blome served as the village’s artist-in-residence, the memorial honors Oak Lawn firefighters, police officers and paramedics who traveled to New York City to assist in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The sculpture also incorporates steel recovered from the World Trade Center, connecting the village to the site where thousands of lives were lost.
Ewell said attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from the artist during both portions of the evening.
“Erik Blome will reflect on creating the memorial during the first part of the program, then patrons will hear Blome’s own perspective on-site at the memorial, just a short distance from the library, during the second portion,” Ewell said.
The evening will begin from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Oak Lawn Public Library, where Blome will discuss the inspiration, challenges and meaning behind creating the memorial. He also will share stories from his career and present examples of his other public works, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
From 8 to 8:30 p.m., participants are invited to meet Blome at the “Heralds of 9/11” memorial for a guided artist’s tour. Standing before the monument, Blome will explain the symbolism woven into the sculpture and offer a perspective that visitors cannot experience simply by viewing the artwork on their own.
Transportation between the library and the memorial is not provided.
The program comes as communities across the country prepare to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, offering residents an opportunity to reflect not only on the national tragedy but also on Oak Lawn’s own connection to the historic event.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to check the library’s online event calendar for updates regarding the outdoor portion of the program in the event of inclement weather.