Mosque: To build or not to build?

Mosque: To build or not to build?



Many questions arise when discussing the possibility of building a Muslim mosque near ground zero. Many Americans believe that ground zero is a place of mourning and a place to be respected of the victims of 9/11. "We feel that it is a cemetery and sacred ground and the dead should be honored," Geller said. "To build a 13-story mega mosque on the cemetery, on the site of the largest attack in American history, I think, is incredibly insensitive..." CNN News reports.

Some reports on this very controversial project have been very offended by this proposal and has even gone to the extent of dividing our country. NDTV reports: "Now, almost a decade later, a proposal to build an Islamic centre and mosque - two blocks from the World Trade Centre (WTC) site - has sharply divided the country." Many believe this is a sign of complete disrespect to our country and the people who lost loved ones on 9/11.


This is, evidently, a very sensitive issue and should be considered carefully. Interestingly enough, our President spoke about this issue and is not as concerned as some according to the response he made regarding our constitutional rights. "Speaking at a Ramadan dinner at the White House, President Obama forcefully endorsed building a mosque near Ground Zero, saying the country's founding principles demanded no less." (http://www.ndtv.com/article/world/mosque-near-ground-zero-has-america-divided-47837)

It is apparent that most of the American people disagreeing with this project, far outweighs those who are in favor of the controversy. "Whatever his personal views are one thing is very clear - America has spoken. Seventy percent of the Americans are against this project not because we don't value religious freedom but because we believe that in a free society citizens should exercise discretion and this project is inappropriate, insensitive and inflammatory," said Brett Joshpe, from American Center for Law and Justice." (ndtv.com)









There are two sides to every story and in this case, there are some Muslims who agree they want the mosque to be built because they have the right to build and practice their religion, and some Muslims who disagree, saying it will not honor the Prophet Muhammad (Regarding respecting your neighbor and their property). It is very upsetting to some New Yorkers and Americans who want to respect Ground Zero and the 9/11 victims. (Here is more information at CNYcentral.com)


Video: <a href="http://www.cnycentral.com/news/story.aspx?id=506616&sms_ss=blogger">Mosque debate divides local Muslim leaders</a>: "The debate over a mosque near ground zero has divided local Muslim leaders."