Scholar attends 9/11 memorial in New York despite family objections

A noted scholar attended commemorative events at the World Trade Center memorial in New York on Friday, maintaining his decision to participate despite public calls from certain victims' families requesting he stay away.

The attendance marked a show of resolve by the academic, whose presence had become a point of contention ahead of the annual remembrance ceremonies. Families of those who died in the September 11 attacks had expressed concerns about his participation, citing objections to his public positions.

The memorial events drew hundreds of attendees for the traditional reading of names and laying of wreaths at the site in lower Manhattan. Security arrangements were in place for the ceremony, which has been held annually since 2001.

The incident reflects ongoing tensions around who should be welcomed at major public commemorations and the complexities of balancing inclusive participation with the sensitivities of bereaved families. Memorial organizers had previously indicated they would not bar the scholar from attending, describing the events as open to the public.

The 9/11 memorial continues to serve as a solemn gathering place for those affected by the attacks, drawing visitors and participants from around the world each year to honour the nearly 3,000 victims who perished.