https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JazOJkKwdGM

Annapolis, MD, September 9, 2022 . . .

How do we move forward after tragedy like 9/11?

How do we see to steer toward a new heading when the North Star is blocked by smoke?

The true futurists are the artists -- the chroniclers of the American experience. The artist holds up an image of our future and we rise to its potential. In the arts we find the true America – a nation of hope and resilience, or honor and integrity. The role of the arts is incalculable in determining how we evolve as a people.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, speaking at Ground Zero on 9/11/2021 said, "It is our responsibility to remember." 

But how do those who did not witness the horrors of 9/11 "remember"? It is the poets and artists, writers and filmmakers who chronicle events so future generations can experience the truth beyond the historical facts on such a visceral level that they, with that newly indelible experience and the perspective of time, can create a better world.

"Angels Over America" is just such a work of art. A spectacular and stirring tribute to 9/11 victims and heroes, this poem and 8-minute memorial video bring new perspectives to a pivotal moment in history. The work's unique metaphors enable people to understand the events from a deeply moving perspective. It is both powerfully grounded in the reality of the events and spiritually uplifting.

Platinum and Gold Award-winning New York arranger and composer Mark Freeh produced the video from Ms. Long's poem, "Angels Over America," against the backdrop of his stirring arrangement of "America the Beautiful," and moving renditions of "Amazing Grace" and "My Country 'Tis of Thee."

"Angels Over America" is a collection of four poems and perspectives, tracing the evolution of awareness, emotion and understanding that lead to transcendence. They celebrate the courage and resilience that are hallmarks of the American Spirit, while providing perspective, healing, and hope.

"Angels Over America" is dedicated to an America that lost its innocence on this day—but never its hope," says Carolyn Long, author and co-producer of the video. "The events of 9/11 will be part of the American consciousness forever. The lens through which they are viewed will shape our future."

View the 8-minute video with Freeh's arrangements, original images and video at the YouTube link:    

www.youtube.com/watch?v=JazOJkKwdGM

 The poem, articles, press releases and other information are available at the website www.AngelsOverAmerica.org.  A high-resolution version of the video, laminated poster or printed copy of "Angels Over America," are available free to the media, by email from  Carolyn.K.Long@gmail.com or by phone request.

Carolyn Long is a writer, photographer and professional speaker based in Annapolis, MD