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Women were there. But, at least on the part of the volunteers, the overwhelming demographic was white male.

Maybe that's because men don't have to toss away their shoes like women did (can't run in heels). Dangerous working in those areas without foot protection. Just a half-*ssed theory.

The women whom I saw were all dressed for the work they were doing. I think it is just that we are programmed, either by genetics or by culture, or both to respond to danger/crisis in different ways. The women I did see were all regarded by the men without any obvious notice of their gender. It was comforting in an odd way to have a woman hand you a bottle of water, an apple, and offer to wash the dust from your eyes.

As for the shoe comment...my wife was only a few blocks north when the buildings fell. I have always advised her, our daughters and our son to wear shoes that won't fly off your feet. You never know when you might have to fight or run for your life. Can't do either if you are thinking about your shoes. Now she gets it.