On September 11, 2001, when the world watched in horror as the unthinkable unfolded in New York City, a small town in Canada became an unlikely beacon of hope and humanity. Thousands of air travelers found themselves stranded in Gander, Newfoundland, after flights were grounded due to the 9/11 attacks. Despite its modest population of approximately 9,600, Gander's residents opened their hearts and homes to these unexpected guests, providing them with food, clothing, and shelter.
The remarkable events in Gander inspired the Broadway musical "Come From Away," which celebrates the extraordinary kindness and generosity shown by the town's residents. The musical is a testament to the power of community and compassion, as it recounts the true story of how Gander's people rallied together in the face of crisis.
Jillian Keiley, who directed the Newfoundland run of "Come From Away," expressed her dismay at U.S. President Donald Trump's accusations that Canada had mistreated its southern neighbor. Keiley emphasized that no political tensions could diminish the friendships formed during that pivotal week or undermine the natural human instinct to help those in need.
Claude Elliott, a Gander resident, echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that current tensions between Canada and the U.S. would soon dissipate. Elliott reflected on those days when the diverted aircraft nearly doubled Gander's population overnight, underscoring the enduring bonds forged during that time.
Among the stranded passengers was Kevin Tuerff, whose experiences in Gander inspired him to establish the Pay It Forward 9/11 foundation. This initiative encourages acts of kindness in memory of those who perished in the attacks. Tuerff, who inspired the character Kevin T. in "Come From Away," highlighted the importance of treating others with respect and fairness.
“Treat others as you want to be treated.”
Tuerff further commented on recent geopolitical tensions, criticizing the use of tariffs as a negotiation tool.
“Threatening tariffs, trying to use them as a bargaining chip, is a violation of the golden rule, and it’s not the way you treat your best trading partner and your ally.”
In a spirit reflective of Canadian politeness and humor, Tuerff added with a touch of irony:
“With a wink and a nod, I want to say, ‘I’m sorry.’”
Derm Flynn, who served as mayor of Appleton, N.L., during the crisis, expressed pride in how his community responded. Flynn and his wife welcomed half a dozen strangers into their home, an experience immortalized in "Come From Away." Flynn dismissed any suggestion that apologies were necessary for how Gander treated its guests.
Diane Flynn also weighed in on the unfounded claims about Canada's treatment of its neighbor.
“Lie about what you want, but don’t say Canada has treated you poorly.”
The story of "Come From Away" extends beyond one-sided acts of kindness; it highlights a reciprocal exchange of generosity between Gander residents and their temporary American neighbors. The musical struck a chord with audiences worldwide, particularly resonating with American viewers during performances in Gander.
Despite current tensions sparking a wave of patriotism and some anti-American sentiments across Canada, Jillian Keiley reiterated the enduring spirit of hospitality in Newfoundland.
“It’s not even that we take care of you when you’re here.”
