09/11/2026
Today, we pause to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and honour the families, first responders, and everyone whose lives were forever changed.
We also remember the people of Gander and surrounding communities in Newfoundland, who opened their homes and hearts to thousands of stranded passengers when planes were diverted to Newfoundland in the days following the attacks.
Their kindness, compassion, and generosity showed the world the very best of humanity.
We remember. We honour. We will never forget. 🇨🇦🇺🇸
On September 11, we remember an extraordinary chapter in Newfoundland’s history—a story of kindness, generosity and humanity that the world should never forget. 🇨🇦
When the horrific events of 9/11 unfolded, Newfoundland became an unexpected refuge for more than 7,000 stranded passengers from around the world. People from more than 100 countries, including thousands of Americans, suddenly found themselves far from home and unsure of what would happen next.
And the people of Newfoundland simply opened their doors.
In communities across the province, strangers became guests. Makeshift shelters were created. Food was prepared. Medical needs were attended to. Animals were cared for. Striking bus drivers returned to work to help transport stranded passengers. Families opened their homes, churches and community halls opened their doors, and people gave whatever they could.
And perhaps most remarkable of all—they didn’t ask for anything in return.
This was Newfoundland at its finest. A province with a proud culture, a fierce independence and people accustomed to making do despite challenging weather and economic hardships. Yet when strangers arrived “from away,” Newfoundlanders didn’t see them as strangers. They saw people who needed help.
For a few extraordinary days, nationality, politics, religion and differences didn’t matter. Humanity did.
That incredible story became the inspiration for Come From Away, which celebrates the generosity and spirit of the people of Newfoundland.
As Come From Away opens September 22 at the Thousand Islands Playhouse, it is a wonderful opportunity to remember this proud moment in Canadian history.
Newfoundland showed the world what it means to welcome strangers, to give without expecting anything in return, and to stand together when others are in need.
That is a Newfoundland story worth telling—and a Canadian story worth remembering.
From away or from here, we are all human first. ❤️🇨🇦
We are proud to be Canadian, eh!
