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Family members of those lost on Flight 587, the second greatest aviation disaster in American history, gathered locally at the the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center to commemorate the 265 victims.
Story and photos by Adrian Cabreja
Hundreds of Dominican-Americans gathered to mark the 10th anniversary
of the crash of American Airlines’ Flight 587 at the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center this past Sat., Nov. 12th.
“We are here to remember the greatest tragedy that has happened to our community,” said Assemblymember Guillermo Linares during the early afternoon service.
Ten years ago, Flight 587 departed from John F. Kennedy Airport at 9:15 am, destined for arrival at Las Americas International Airport in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Due to pilot error, the Airbus crashed shortly after departing from JFK, and landed in Belle Harbor, New York, two months after the terrorist attacks on September 11th.
265 people died that morning, in what was the second greatest aviation disaster in American history. The majority of those on board, and killed, were of Dominican descent.
Though the event occurred ten years ago, grief could still be felt this past Saturday afternoon at the Shabazz Center, as scores of family members present wore black and wept openly during the service, which was opened by a prayer recited by Rev. Ricardo Fajardo.
Many recalled the last things they said or did to their loved ones before they departed.
“I remember giving my brother a hug before he left, expecting to see him again. We were supposed to see each other again during the holidays,” said Belkis Lora, president of the Committee In Memory of Flight 587. “I was depressed for three years. I didn't eat or sleep,” she continued.
In addition to New York State Assemblymember Guillermo Linares, other elected officials and leaders present included Congressman Charles Rangel, New York State Senator Adriano Espaillat, New York State Assemblymember Nelson Castro, New York City Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez, and Maximo Corcino, Consul General of the Dominican Republic.
“We call upon the members of this community to join those families that haven’t yet recovered from the pain and sorrow for the loss of their loved ones,” said Corcino. He also added that the children of those who deceased would make their parents proud if they continued their education, and became successful professionals.
Despite the grief, many recognized this anniversary as a day of remembrance, and as an opportunity to continue and celebrate the lives of those who died.
“I believe it is our responsibility to keep those we lost alive in spirit through continuing our lives foward,” said Councilman Rodriguez.
“Even though our community here in New York is large, we all knew someone directly who died in the accident or someone who knew someone who died that day,” said Sen. Espaillat.
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