09/11/2020
Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, there were only 3 days in history where Disneyland was closed. One of those days, was September 11th, 2001. At Disneyland, the gates just simply never opened. The nation as well as the park were in shock. The usual Disney magic was gone. In some instances around the resort it was so quiet you could hear a pin drop for what felt like hours. In other instances, there was panic as people tried to reach their loved ones.
The days following the tragedy were difficult in their own right. Any guests who had to leave couldn't because all the airlines were closed. Guests were allowed back into the park, but many people refused to travel or be out in public. The park was a ghost town. Instead of just walking into Disneyland, you now had to go through a security check point, while the K9 unit waited outside. Just like today.
The cast members kept their friendly smiles on their faces. But in some areas of the park there was no music playing, and they shut down early.
This was a tragedy that no one ever thought could happen in today's world. Yet somehow it had happened.
In many ways however, something unexpected happened. This horrid tragedy brought the Disney community closer together. Disney gave their guests free nights in the hotel, as well as complimentary park hoppers into the park. The cast member said, "I can't do anything about what's going on. But I can make your day a little better." Those who hadn't been directly affected asked Disney repeatedly how they could help and spread magic to those people who truly needed magic. They were flooded with so many requests that they established the DisneyHAND: Survivor Relief Fund.
Disney provided $5,000,000 and raised $700,000 from donations to assist victims and their families, giving each and every family a $1,000 check.
9/11 was a tragedy none of us will ever forget. Today, we hold our loved ones just a little bit tighter.
