September 11, 2001 changed everyday life in the United States. Americans no longer have the freedom to move around the country without security checks, and they are under constant threat of terrorism. As the government struggles with national security, businesses deal with maintaining productivity in an increasingly complex society.

The anniversary of the tragic event will undoubtedly bring up a lot of feelings for Americans as they try to get through the workday. Employees will continue to work productively on September 11th in subsequent years if employers openly honor the historical day, and allow employees to acknowledge their reactions.

We suggest using the following list of ideas to provide employees with the support they need while remaining mindful of workplace demands.

1. Formally announce to all employees that a general employee or community meeting will be held to honor September 11th. This should be done ahead of time in order to prepare employees.

2. The leader of the organization, such as the president or CEO, should state why it is important to provide everyone with time to reflect upon what happened on that historical date. A memo or videotaped message prior to the meeting would be most helpful.

3. Clearly indicate the specified amount of time that is being set aside for the event, and the activities scheduled. It is recommended to schedule the activities early in the day, and that it be mandatory for everyone. If it is voluntary, resentment towards those who choose not to attend may cause collegiality problems.

4. Have employees come together in a large open space. The more employees you have together, the better. However, large organizations may choose to meet by department, unit, or division. It is imperative that the activities be the same, so the facilitators need to be coordinated.

5. Set ground rules for using the time in order to create a safe, sacred space for everyone. Many organizations fail to use ground rules, which too often results in some employees feeling unsafe and less engaged. Some typical rules include:

• Everyone should be fully present

• Focus on supporting one another in acknowledging the event, and individual responses to it.

• It is a time for shared healing. Avoid blaming anyone, or thinking about revenge.

• Honor the diversity in responses to the event. Avoid politicizing, or taking sides. Focus on the problem, while being supportive of each other.

• Focus on the commonality of loss and a desire to live in peace

• Listen to what each other has to say

6. Help form a sense of sacred space by delivering a globally conscious passage/statement to the entire group. A useful passage to read is as follows:

We have come together to create a sacred time and place to honor the anniversary of September 11, 2001. Most of the time, we do not live with an awareness of how sacred our lives are until some tragedy reminds us. It happens in those moments of deep knowing that we experience being part of a larger whole of living beings, and we have a glimpse into existence beyond us as humans. It is simple and profound, yet it has the possibility of filling us with joy and peace. So, honor those who lost their lives on this day by taking out time to share how much we appreciate each other. Take time to walk through a park, or the forest. Consider how to raise our children to avoid our mistakes. Use this circle as an opportunity to communion with each other—for these are the windows to the sacred.

7. Use art forms, such as music, to help employees feel a sense of support and understanding. An employee with a beautiful voice can have a calming effect. A simple drumbeat over a ten-minute period can bring about a sense of sacred space. Some use chanting to do so. Use whatever is available to help employees feel connected, and that the moment is special.

8. Offer opportunities for employees to discuss their thoughts in small groups. Put together a set of questions, such as the follows:

• What were you doing on September 11th when you heard the news?

• What was the most important thing that you remember on that day?

• How has your life being affected by the event?

• What do you believe has been a positive effect of the tragedy?

Have the large group break down into groups of five to discuss the questions (Use as many groups as needed, or time allows. Make certain that the last item focuses on something positive).

9. Allow time for individuals to express their views to the entire audience. Ask the small groups to come together as one large group. Ask individuals to share their responses to the questions with the entire group. End the session with showing appreciation to everyone for participating. Indicate that some may need further assistance, which has been made available.

10. Provide professional assistance for employees needing additional support after the meeting. Make certain that professionals are available to meet with employees who need more support after the meeting has ended.