After more than two decades since the September 11 terrorist attack, the sacrifice of the first responders and survivors continues to be threatened by political decisions that endanger their health and well-being.
Some activists and representatives of rescue workers have gathered with New York Democratic Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand to urgently call on the government to restore essential staff at the World Trade Center Health Program, WTC Health Program, an initiative providing healthcare to those who are battling serious illnesses due to their exposure to toxic debris from the Twin Towers.
Despite President Trump’s reassurances, 16 employees of the program received termination letters on April 4, raising concerns. Among those “fired” is also the program’s director, Dr. John Howard, a longtime expert appointed by the GOP leader himself, who dedicated his career to serving the people affected by the attack.
During the rally Schumer harshly condemned the move, calling it “shameful.” He also accused Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of allowing the dismissal of hundreds of workers, including crucial doctors and epidemiologists involved in research on diseases linked to WTC exposure. According to the senator, the cuts could even mark the end of the vital initiative for approximately 137,000 individuals who have contracted diseases due to their exposure to the toxic dust.
In this context, Gary Smiley, a member of FDNY EMS Local 2507, the union representing over 4,300 workers, expressed concern over the dire consequences of the reforms. He emphasized that the health program represents “a lifeline” for tens of thousands of first responders and survivors whose lives are at risk due to the illnesses they contracted.
The WTC Health Program is not just a point of reference for direct medical care but also a pillar of scientific research on the physical and psychological damage caused by the tragedy. In fact, the program was created in response to a misleading report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which had incorrectly declared that the air around the World Trade Center was safe to breathe. Since then, the initiative has funded research projects and medical support for conditions related to the environment, saving countless lives.
The program is authorized to operate until 2090, but it now faces a political battle that could undermine its effectiveness. With the loss of qualified personnel and the potential interruption of services, many people risk losing access to critical care for diseases that continue to manifest, such as various types of cancer and respiratory disorders.
