New Heritage Minute to tell the story of Gander on September 11, 2001
TORONTO – May 13, 2025 – It was the day in which a small, remote Newfoundland community opened its doors to the world. After the United States closed airspace following the unprecedented terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Canada managed the diverted planes in what became known as Operation Yellow Ribbon. Gander, one of two air traffic control centres responsible for guiding aircraft travelling over the North Atlantic, welcomed 38 planes, carrying 6,656 people – nearly double the town’s population. With no advance notice or time to plan, Ganderites and locals from nearby towns gave their unexpected guests food, places to sleep, other necessary supplies – and the emotional support needed after their harrowing journeys. The impact and touching stories of that and the following days still resonate today, with passengers later establishing scholarships, community buildings, and funding school equipment for the area. Now, the story of that day will be reflected in a Heritage Minute.
“The actions of the people of Gander in a time of global crisis reflected Newfoundlanders – and Canadians – at their best,” said Anthony Wilson-Smith, President and CEO of Historica Canada. “And we’re delighted to work with some of Newfoundland and Labrador’s finest creative people on-site in telling that story.’
The Minute will be shot and produced by Newfoundland and Labrador’s LJH Films, with owner Latonia Hartery serving as producer and Kat Baulu, former producer at the National Film Board of Canada, acting as executive producer. An award-winning filmmaker, Hartery has a PhD in Newfoundland and Labrador and Arctic archaeology. The film will be directed by St. John’s born Deanne Foley, a seasoned TV director known for her work on “Republic of Doyle,” “Hudson and Rex,” and “Son of a Critch”. The Minute is expected to be shot on location in the fall of this year, with release next year to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the events of 9/11.
“I’m humbled by the opportunity to honour Gander’s 9/11 story in a Heritage Minute – a tribute to the kindness, courage and spirit of Newfoundlanders,” said Latonia Hartery. “I’m grateful to collaborate with Historica Canada, our incredible community and my talented colleagues on this remarkable journey.”
The Heritage Minutes are made possible through funding from the Department of Canadian Heritage and private sponsors. Historica Canada is a charitable organization that offers programs in both official languages that focus on people and events that shape our country. The iconic Heritage Minutes collection now includes more than 100 and are widely-viewed, in addition to Canada, in countries around the world.