Jon Stewart's Heartfelt Speech Nine Days After 9/11 Resonates Over Two Decades Later

The tragic events of September 11, 2001, left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of people around the world. Among the many voices that emerged in the aftermath, Jon Stewart's heartfelt speech on "The Daily Show" stands out as one of the most poignant and impactful. Delivered just nine days after the attacks, Stewart's words offered a blend of raw emotion, hope, and resilience that resonated deeply with viewers.

"Good evening and welcome to 'The Daily Show.' We are back. This is our first show since the tragedy in New York City, and there's no other way really to start the show than to ask you at home the question that we asked the audience here tonight and that we've asked everybody that we know here in New York since September 11th and that is, are you okay? And we pray that you are and that your family is," Stewart began, capturing the collective grief and concern that permeated the nation.

One commenter reflected on the significance of Stewart's speech, noting, "I was a senior in high school when 9/11 happened. For the first week, all the comedy shows went dark. There just wasn't anything funny about what had happened and the nation was in this weird, collective shock. I watched his show live and it was the first time a comedian went on air and talked about it so penetratingly and painfully yet tinged with hope and humor. Slowly, we all started to laugh again. Jon Stewart is one of the greatest Americans who has ever lived. Truly a modern-day Mark Twain."

Stewart's dedication to the victims and first responders of 9/11 did not end with his speech. For two decades, he tirelessly advocated for their healthcare and support. His efforts culminated in a powerful testimony before Congress, where he shamed lawmakers for their inaction. One user highlighted this, saying, "Jon worked tirelessly for 20 years to get the 9/11 first responders the healthcare they should've had without question. He testified before Congress and shamed them for their egregious inaction, and when the republicans voted down the PACT Act for political games, he lent his voice and celebrity to loudly bring the nation's attention to what they did, and it was brought back up for a vote within days and finally passed."

The impact of Stewart's advocacy is undeniable. Another commenter remarked, "Of course all these years later he proves a big embarrassing thing, that for our congress to keep supporting the healthcare of first responders to that event it takes a television comedian to light a fire under them because they cannot do it themselves. It's great that he steps up to the plate and does this work, but he should not have to."

Stewart's legacy extends beyond his work for 9/11 responders. He has also championed veterans' rights and other humanitarian causes, earning widespread respect and admiration. A user summed up this sentiment, saying, "He is a legend, to this day. This is what a class act looks like. What a man!"

For those wishing to revisit this monumental moment, the full speech is available on Comedy Central for viewers in the United States: [Comedy Central Link](https://www.cc.com/video-clips/1q93jy/the-daily-show-with-jon-stewart-september-11--2001). International viewers can access it on Dailymotion: [Dailymotion Link](https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x36h4qn).

In reflecting on Jon Stewart's speech and his enduring commitment to social justice, it becomes clear why he is considered one of the most influential voices of our time. His words from twenty years ago continue to inspire and remind us of the power of empathy, humor, and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy.