Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman urges the citizens of Columbus to "Stand Together" in the wake of Tuesday, September 11th 2001 attack on America. He is surround by civic leaders from Columbus and Franklin County on the South patio of Columbus City Hall. 09/12/01

Standing Together

Mayor Michael B. Coleman is encouraging all residents to stand together in light of the terrible national tragedy in New York City, Washington DC and Pennsylvania. He is calling on all citizens to display the American flag as a symbol of national unity, freedom and pride.

Mayor Coleman continues to oversee citywide safety precautions, and travel around Columbus, meet with residents, visit schools and recreation centers, all in an effort to reassure the public of their safety and to stress the need for calm in the wake of the tragic attacks.

"Today our hearts are heavy and this national loss is sinking deep into our consciousness," said Mayor Coleman. "Now is the time for families to remain calm, to come together in prayer for the victims and the nation, to make donations to help those in New York and Washington, and to find ways to move our community forward again as we mourn with families in every part of this great country."

If any family or City employee has questions on security concerns they should contact the Division of Police at 645-4545. If they have questions on other issues facing the City or events, they should contact the Mayor's Action Center at 645-CITY (2489).

In a speech given on Wednesday, September 12, 2001, he outlined the "Columbus Way" of dealing with a national crisis. The speech and other documents are available on this page.

1. Praying for the victims and their families It's uniting as a community behind this nation... supporting our President and all of those who protect us
2. Out of respect for them and our great nation... we are asking our families... our schools... our businesses and all others... to display our symbol of freedom and unity... OUR FLAG.
3. Continue to Give Blood, there is a Red Cross link on this page.
4. Provide other forms of Aid... just as the City has sent 7 firefighters to aid in the rescue efforts... and stands ready to send more when the call comes, we must all give to help those families torn apart by this attack.
5. The Columbus Way is to embrace our Children, talk to them, help them to understand.
6. The Columbus Way requires that we be a city of Diversity... and embrace all nationalities... all religions... all races.