On September 8, 2026, ABC News' Linsey Davis spoke with Fekkak Mamdouh, a former worker at Windows on the World, and Saru Jayaraman, co-founder of One Fair Wage. Their discussion centered on the enduring ways the September 11th terrorist attacks reshaped the lives of immigrant restaurant workers.
Mamdouh, who survived the attacks, and Jayaraman, an advocate for restaurant workers' rights, shared insights into the immediate aftermath and long-term consequences for this community. The conversation highlighted the vulnerability of workers in industries like hospitality, many of whom are immigrants and crucial to the service economy.
The events of 9/11 not only resulted in the tragic loss of life among those working in the iconic restaurants atop the World Trade Center but also brought to light broader issues concerning worker safety, immigration status, and economic security for a workforce often operating with limited protections. The discussion underscored the lasting ripple effects of that day on individuals, families, and the broader labor landscape.