9/11 Memorial Leaders Raise Salaries Amid Financial Strain, Outraging Families

Families of 9/11 victims are expressing outrage over recent salary increases for top executives at the September 11 Memorial and Museum, despite the organization"s ongoing financial struggles. President Elizabeth Hillman earned over $850,000 in the last fiscal year, while Vice President Joshua Cherwin"s salary approached $500,000.

These raises come at a time when the memorial has reported significant financial losses. Last year, the organization generated $93 million in revenue, including $4.5 million from taxpayer funds, but incurred expenses totaling $112 million. Top management salaries have surged by an average of 60-70% since 2020, drawing ire from those who lost loved ones in the attacks.

Critics argue that these salary hikes are inappropriate given the memorial"s financial difficulties and the ongoing need for support and resources for the families affected by the tragedy. The backlash highlights the tension between the memorial"s operational challenges and the expectations of its stakeholders.

As the organization grapples with its fiscal situation, it remains to be seen how leadership will respond to the growing discontent among victim families. The situation echoes similar controversies in other sectors, such as recent developments in political leadership and public accountability, highlighting the ongoing debate over compensation in times of crisis.