Trees that survived 9/11 attack and Oklahoma City bombing featured in public Plaza
Oklahoma Christian University (OC) hosted a dedication ceremony on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, for its Survivor Tree Memorial Plaza, a public area for remembrance and reflection on campus. The Plaza hosts two unique trees, one grown from a seedling from the Survivor Tree at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum and one grown from a cutting from the tree that survived the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City. OC is the only site in the world outside of New York City to have the two trees side-by-side.
The Plaza is a reminder of the vital connection between New York City and Oklahoma City.
"We are humbled by this opportunity to create a meaningful public space here on campus for our community to remember, honor and reflect on two tragedies that shaped our country's history," OC Chancellor John deSteiguer said. "The two trees signify healing, perseverance and are a testament to Christ's enduring love. The OC community appreciates the connections we’ve had over the years with survivors from both tragedies. Our shared histories have allowed us to find strength and understanding from each other."
OC hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the Plaza on April 18, 2024, which included numerous people touched by the two tragedies. During the dedication, community and OC leaders spoke about the importance of the new community space.
The plaza features three permanent flags: Oklahoma and New York state flags and an American flag. For a decade, OC has hosted the Ralph Harvey Field of Flags, a tradition where the University flies 168 American flags and 168 Oklahoma flags on April 19 and Sept. 11, remembering lives lost in the tragic events. The three flags fly near the two trees, emphasizing a connection between the two states and the permanent opportunity for remembrance.
"The Plaza will serve as a peaceful respite from a painful time in our state’s history," said Susan Walton, an Oklahoma City bombing survivor. "I’m grateful for the comfort I’ve received from connecting with others who’ve been impacted by tragedy. The Plaza provides a permanent reminder of what it means to connect with our neighbors, to support one another.”
"Oklahomans have long poured into New Yorkers following the attack on the World Trade Center," said Ron Vega, a New Yorker who worked in recovery efforts after 9/11 and later assisted in designing and constructing the 9/11 Memorial. "To this day, our communities remain connected and support one another. The survivor trees standing together here at OC exemplify our shared history and hope for healing."
The Survivor Tree Memorial Plaza is funded through donations from university alumni and friends, as well as Brad Robison's friends and family. The Plaza is now open to the public year-round.
