Heritage Minutes: Gander and 9/11 (2026)
Director: Deanne Foley
Cast: Rick Mercer, Petrina Bromley, Jillian Rees-Brown, Perry Farwell, Ruth Lawrence
More About This Film
Heritage Minutes: Gander and 9/11 is a 2026 Canadian Heritage Minute commemorating the response of Gander and surrounding communities to the September 11, 2001 attacks and the closure of United States airspace. The short recreates how the Newfoundland community welcomed diverted passengers during Operation Yellow Ribbon.
The production focuses on the human response to an international crisis, showing the food, clothing, shelter and emotional support provided to thousands of travelers. Its release in 2026 also marks the 25th anniversary of the events it depicts.
- Directed by Deanne Foley.
- Written by Latonia Hartery and Deanne Foley.
- Rick Mercer appears as mayor and narrator.
- Gander received 38 diverted planes carrying 6,656 people.
- The production was produced by Elemental Pictures for Historica Canada.
Where to Watch
The Heritage Minute is distributed through Historica Canada and related Canadian digital channels.