Friday, May 7, 2010

Mosque to be built near Ground Zero

Tunell Polk
Eng. 122
Prof. Kern
5-7-10

http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/05/07/new.york.ground.zero.mosque/index.html


A May 7th article by Nicole Bliman of the New York Times, reports that a "...15-story community center including a mosque, performance art center, gym, swimming pool and other public spaces", is planning to be built two blocks away from Ground Zero. The article states, "The project is a collaboration between the American Society for Muslim Advancement and the Cordoba Initiative, both of which work to improve relations with followers of the religion." The hope is that the building of the building will promote understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims in the city. There are mixed emotions about this building plan. the article quotes individuals on both sides, for and against. Some think its a good idea, and a good step in the right direction towards understanding. Some think although it is meant to be respectful, it isn't right to place a shrine to the faith at that exact place.

I believe the society has the right to build wherever they like as long as they own the land, but I don't think that so close to epicenter of the tragedy of 9/11 is the right location. It is difficult enough for families and loved ones of victims to cope with their loss, but to have a mosque near the place where those victims lost their lives is a bit too much. I do believe that the area's surrounding the WTC should be used for memorials and such, but it's nobody's call but the owners of the land. I just hope everything remains peaceful at the site.


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