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June 7th, 2010
08:20 AM ET
Controversy Over Mosque Plans Near Ground Zero
Plans to build a mosque near the site of Ground Zero are drawing protests. Read the full story on CNN.com here. We want to hear from you on this. What do you think about plans to build the mosque near the site where the twin towers of the World Trade Center were brought down by Islamist hijackers?
Leave your comments here and we'll put some of them on the air on CNN NewsRoom between 11am and 1pm eastern.
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I'd first like to know what constitutes "near" ground zero. Secondly, I'd like to know when the plans for the mosque were made. If it's right next door, I protest because it almost seems as if it's a victory statement. If, on the other hand, it's two or three blocks (or more) away, I have no issue with them. Finally, if the plans were made after the fall of the twin towers and they deliberately chose to build it as close as possible to ground zero, I believe they are displaying a huge lack of sensitivity at best and, at worst, a profound disrespect for those who lost their lives there at the hands of Muslim terrorists.
Putting a mosque at ground zero is like trying to sell a tanning booth in Nagasaki on August 10, 1945.
Why is it that our government officials search for way's to make the American people angry it is clear by the protest that this Mosque would be in danger of attack's if allowed to open the wise thing to do would be to find a new place .
This is the most unpatriotic thing that could happen to our country. Will spark a war without any doubt. Will leave muslims in jeopardy, which would not hurt my feelings. A Sacred Ground being violated by the same people that destroyed buildings and so many lifes for nothing. If you have not been paying attention the Muslims have plans to take over America in less than 10 yrs, & the world. What are we going to do about it? They won't be in my neighborhood. Guaranteed. We have got to fight back. Trying to take out guns away so there will have a easy road to travel. They want my guns, will get the ammo first, that I know for sure. God Bless what is left of America. Remember our military that are dying for our freedom.
No, they can not let this happen. They should not be able to build within 2 miles of ground zero.
So the hate religion Muslims (check for yourself, every major terrorist attack the last 60 + years, with the exception of Timothy McVeigh has been carried out by a Muslim) wants to build a Mosque near where they carried out the death of 3,000 + people? What does "Allah" say? I realize CNN probably won't post this as it is to sensitive, but to me it is pathetic to even think of such a thing.
I think it's ok. I think world peace should be the goal.
I can see both sides of the argument but personally I find it inappropriate. Of all the places to build a mosque in New York; why near Ground Zero?
This would be just fine in America because we don't let ourselves be "run" by religious nuts.
will it be the same reaction if a Church or a Synagogue will be build?
Lets see a 9/11 memorial in mecca first.
The conflation that all Muslims are terrorists has been going on far too long. Just because a small portion have chosen to engage in violent acts in the name of Allah does not mean all Muslims are violent and angry. They should allow this mosque to be built for the many peace loving Muslims that live in New York.
I am Muslim and I don't think it is okay. Yes, MOST Muslims are peace loving people but just like every religion we have extremists (Christianity had David Koresh, Casey Jones and many more) But, to most Americans this will be seen as rubbing salt in the wounds and just shouldn't be done. Build it somewhere else!
The problem with building the mosque at ground zero is a problem not easily solved. The fact that it does offend people should be enough to realize that it should not be there, especially for a people that want peace among everyone as this will surely not create peace.
Building a mosque so close to Ground Zero is simply asking for more tragedy. Some fanatic will more than likely do something to it, simply to draw attention.
A mosque two blocks away should be okay. I could see how it'd be offensive if it were on ground zero, but two blocks away.. I wouldn't even associate the two.
This is NOT acceptable! A slap in the face of Christians who lost a loved one in 911. This is not perceived as a sign of respect or honor but a total disregard of my feelings and views!
Are you kidding me ? The Muslims have to laughing behind our backs at the thought of building this Mosque so close to ground zero.
It will only make more religious hatred, possibly even more violence, with most of it directed at the new Mosque.
I remind you that not all Muslims are terrorists, but all the terrorists appear to be Muslim.
No. It is not ok. If you are peace loving, then show some respect and compassion. You can't possibly think it would be respectful to do so.
Weather it is representative of all Muslims or not, it is impossible to argue aginst the fact that Islam is easily the most violent religious group in the world today. Try to build a church in ANY predominately Muslim country in the world and see how that goes over...
To build a Mosque at or near Ground Zero is disrespectful and a slap in the face of all those who lost their lives and all those who lost loved ones. Let's be real here: it wasn't a bunch of fundamentalist, radicalized First Baptists who hijacked the planes and flew them into the WTC. There is one common denominator: Young-radicalized-Arabic-Muslim-Men in the WTC disaster. Let 'em build in Brooklyn.
Their god is our god. The ignorance astounds me. Would you like a race comment? That conservative opponent making lots of noise makes me ashamed to be a white woman.
Saying bad things would not have happened if a certain belief system never existed is one of the most senseless things I've ever heard. That applies to all belief systems, including Christianity. Besides, "Freedom of religion" is a fundamental part of our Constitution.
I just saw your clip about building a mosque near ground zero. I see no issue with it. How does hate of a minority within a minority justify disenfranchising the religious beliefs hundreds of millions of people. The Ku Klux Klan is a Christian organization. Would it serve the black community well or the white community, for that matter, to halt the construction of all Christian houses of worship because of the actions of a radical Christian faction such as the KKK? Absolutely not.
This is outrageous to say the least. This should not be allowed. The President should interfere and stop this disaster from happening. The mosque doesn't belong there. To make it fair, there shouldn't be any religious buildings near Ground Zero. I feel if this is to happen, it will be like spitting into the faces of all the people who died in the attack and those who died trying to save people. Stop the fear and "political correctness". By doing that you are betraying your own people.
Just the idea of a Mosque close to ground 0 shows the arrogance and lack of compassion that the Muslim community has shown to the U.S.. I have never heard a word of apology about 9/11 except from our President who is obviously a Muslim when he speaks about the U.S. on foreign soil. Disgusting.
This is the most insane thing I have ever heard. I was in shock this morning when I heard the news on CNN. We are way to "politically correct" in this Country. While I understand religious freedom, don't tread on me and my brothers in the fire service and others that suffered that day that will stay in our minds forever, September 11.
No mosque near ground zero, this is sacred AMERICAN land of mourning a loss to this country. They are doing this as a slap in the face to us and Obama is one of them as we all know.
I am a Brit living in the USA, was living here on 9/11. I am OUTRAGED at this plan to build a mosque so close to a sacred American spot. I see the point of Muslim-Americans, that they are a people of peace. We must advocate that Islam is a religion of peace, but why must this mosque be built in this location? What about Queens? or Brookylyn? Why must it be where the atrocities of 9/11 occurred? It is a national disgrace that our government is allowing this to happen. In London, a similar idea was proposed and the people of Great Britain protested it, and it was stopped. Can we do the same thing here?
If the muslims don't want to hurt anyone then why there? Is there no where else they can go. They have to know by now how sensitive this is and it seems to me they don't really care how nonmuslims feel.
A mosque on sacred ground from 9/11. That's a bit "in your face" don't you think. My opinion. Hell NO !!!!! Thanks Tony
No ... No ,,,, No
That is all what I can say .......
I saw this this morning, and couldn't believe my ears. Really? A mosque near ground zero? No. No way. It's not a good idea.
When religions think of building a new holy place they really should consider the area and it history prior to building.
From everything I'm hearing adding a mosque anywhere near ground zero would only inflame religious divisions in that area.
I think ground zero should stand as a memorial to the people who died there, and not become a focal point for more hatred.
Why not. You can't blame all Muslims for the 9/11 attacks. That's like saying no churches in Oklahoma City after the bombings.
I do think it is in bad taste but is competely legal . It also depends on the type of islamic religion going there. The islamics who attacked the world trade center were members of the radical wahabi sect. Most Muslims condem these attacks. It is akin to blaming all Christians for the catholic churches abuse scandals. (I am Catholic)
I think it's wrong to build this mosque next to ground zero. If the people that wanted to build this wanted to help, perhaps they should step back and say sorry for inflaming a debate that could be avoided. Peaceful means sometimes means withdrawing rather then inflaming debate.
I think that it is an insult to those who died on September 11th and
Mayor Blumberg should have asked the Saudis why Churches if not Synagogues cannnot be built in Saudi Arabia before giving his approval.
The idea is a bit harsh for some people to handle I'm sure, but you can't accuse everyone for the actions of others..I understand the hard feelings someone would feel for even throwing that rude comment out in the air...
I don't see a problem with it. I served my country and i fought for the right of ALL AMERICANS, no matter the race or religion. These aren't the people who attacked are country. These are the people who where here and saw the planes fly into the towers an cried just the same as any other american did.
I don't believe anything should be constructed on such hallowed ground. While most rational people realize the acts were of a few and that most Muslims are peace loving people, this proposal of a mosque will only create a negative conversation among our citizens and our country because emotional wounds don't always allow for rational thought. Leave it as a memorial site and hallowed ground without any additional connotations for anyone.
As Dan has stated, the majority of terrorist and religious hatred attacks have been on the Muslim side. Yes, this religion goes around with a PR campaign of peace and love, then turn around and fly two airplanes filled with civilians into OUR twin towers. This is only one example of how their religion is anything but peaceful, a mosque near the memorial site of our American heroes is an offensive and obscene gesture.
To build a mosque only three blocks from Ground Zero is pure malice. The American Government Of all people should not have let this happened, they should take into account the sensitive nature of this matter.
I think protesting the mosque is crazy. If we are going to eliminate our enemies we need to integrate them into our society. This will bring a mutual understanding and the lack of this mutual understanding is why we're in the fix we're in.
9/11 was such a HORRIFIC event that good Muslims should be sensitive to the fact that a mosque should not/does not need to be built at that site and that we Americans should have the say over whether or not a mosque should be allowed there!!
Tony, this is an absolute OUTRAGE! It is downright disrespectful to all the lives lost on 9/11. If the Muslims want to build a Mosque in New York they can do so, just nowhere near the ruins of the World Trade Center. Putting a mosque in that proximity is basically rubbing our noses in the disaster and is intolerable.
I don't think it's a bad thing to build a moque near Ground Zero. I thought it was very ignorant of that lady talking about Islam and how a mosque would be offense to be built near Ground Zero. It was NOT because of Islam that the attacked happen it was because of the PEOPLE that caused it. I'm Muslim and that doesn't mean I supported the attack on the Twin Towers or anywhere else.
i just saw the piece you just did and i agree with the male on the show that the woman does not know what she is talking about.
she is blaming islam instead of the people responsible. i am of no faith but i am an american. we have freedoms for everyone . we can not single out one religon due to a terror attack and as an american i do not feel llike we are " bowing to islam" we are opening our hearts to islam
peace be with you
This is completely absurd and offensive!
If I was a Muslim, I'm not sure I would even want to attend a Mosque that will be the object of hatred and scorn of every other New Yorker.
Sure, they might have the right to build it, but it's not too smart, it's in very bad taste, and it's an insult to the thousands of families who lost their lives there.
Saying we were attacked on 9/11 by Muslims is like saying Pear Harbor was an attack by Shintos and Buddhist. A core belief in America is Religious Freedom. Stirring up false religious wars is a great evil.
People need to realize that the Israeli Government committed 911, and our government knows this. But Israeli Senators make sure that Israel is clear of any investigations.
What's wrong with a mosque being built? How about the 1million iraqi's that perished by the use of illegal chemical weapons used.
I'm a retired naval Officer (USNA 1961), and I believe it would be offensive NOT to allow any place of prayer in the vicinity of Ground Zero. The sacrifice of those who died should be sanctified by the prayers of people of every faith. This hurting planet needs all the prayers we can muster. Build the Mosque!
As a Christian, I believe the Mosque should be permitted. Muslims are good people, with many of the same spiritual tenants as all belief systems, including Christianity.
Allowing the Mosque shows that we do not blame all for the crimes of some. Christians should live what Jesus taught. And, not all victims were Christian.
As much as the muslim faith spreads its ideas opposed to the thoughts of the muslim extremists, it is still a recognized fact what religion is responsible for 9/11 tradgedy.No matter if so many muslims feel offended that we can't build this mosque, it seems unacceptable to build so close. I think that the disrespect towards the victims of the 9/11 tradgedy far outweighs the disrespect of a confused religion.
A Mosque at ground zero......that's a crazy idea. Is it being floated just to create controversy? Why not keep it simple and have a middle of the road non-offensive memorial to those innocent persons that lost their lives and the heroic acts of selflessness of people. Somewhere in there will be a muslim American that can also be highlighted.
If Timothy McVeigh was Catholic, would people protest the building of a church two blocks from the terror attack at the Alfred P. Murrah Building in Oklahoma City? Ignorance is the real terror we face in this country.
1) The fact that the woman said it was "humiliating" is offensive to Muslim people because you do not see Muslim people going around making comments about Christian,Hindu,Jewish,Buddhist churches. . or where they even want to build their churches.
2) A place of worship like the Mosques in NY have never had problems in their surrounding vicinity so she should realize that a place for worship is not a war zone it is strictly a religious environment where religious activity is taking place.
3) Believe it or not not only Americans died in the 9/11 attack but other Muslim brothers and everyday there are people who pray for these people and by having this mosque around ground zero will have people remember our lost ones more and pray for them more !
THANK YOU !!
Why is it that we always find a group to be discriminated against in our great country. This is just another example of Islamophobia. Before people go out and get facts they go out and discriminate. The mosque is BLOCKS away from the ground zero site. People need to get the image that all Muslims are terrorists out of their heads, and no not all terrorists are Muslim either. All of the people protesting yesterday at Ground Zero were just protesting the 1st Amendment which is Unpatriotic.
if you live in the us act like it learn to speak english, and become an American.
If the attempt to ban construction succeeds, we will have handed the 9/11 hijackers a further victory. Their goal was to foment hatred and to goad the US into war against all of Islam. A mosque near Ground Zero would show that we are not at war against Islam – only against terrorists of any religious faith, or none.
I can't believe that your commentator claims 911 would not have happened without Islam. Look at all of the heinous, violent crimes that happen everyday. Perhaps they are not of the same scale, but crazy is crazy and people are motivated by ridiculous things everyday. I think a mosque near the 911 site would be a sign that Americans are tolerant and understand that not all Muslims are radicals–or do we? Our society is made up of all different types of people, and when casting off some and limiting their freedom to practice their lives and cultures in peace becomes acceptable....that is the real tragedy.
My understanding is this new Mosque is going to be within 2 blocks of Ground Zero. Also within 2 blocks of Ground Zero is a strip club.
Why can't we include a Mosque, ALONG WITH a church, a temple and other places of worship as part of our plans to rebuild Ground Zero? People of all faiths died that day. This is also an opportunity to show that Americans are not anti-Islam, we are more anti-Terror and anti-Hate.
Tony,
This really infuriates me. Muslims have already made a point that they dont like U.S. citizens so why build a mosque 2 blocks away from ground zero? America needs to stop this action because it is puting New York at risk for another terrorist attack!
No matter how the muslims view the mosque (peaceful or not), what is more important is how the American people as a whole view and feel about ground zero and the surrounding area. The only thing truly appropriate is a memorial and some resumption of normalcy in that area. A park and/or office buildings in conjuctions with the memorial is all that is needed.
They should do whatever they want just like Americans build churches where ever they want and try to get the people in Iraq to contest to Islam when
How would the Muslim world feel if Billy Graham wanted to build a church near Mecca.? I have nothing against Islam but they are slapping the victims of 9/11 in the face.
this is such a slap in the face to those that lost their lives in WTC bombings. This serves no purpose but as to the Muslism world thumbing their noses at us. A long time ago someone said that there was a movement in the USA to induce Islam into the USA, well the more we allow them to build, teach and grow in this country, the more we will be turning to the Islamic world. Sorry I just can't see this happening, they already have a foothold in several states, yes being teachers, we can guess were this will go, and doctors its pretty bad when you serve in combat get injured come back have an Islamic doctor tell you your neck injury ( from an IED ) doesn't excess, how do you think that soldier felt and this was at a VA Hospital.. Think America..
I laughed when the guy said muslims walk around saying "peace be upon you." What he didn't say is that they only say that to each other. I know many of them and I have never been able to get one of them to say that Islam is not about world domination and the erasing of all other religeons from the face of the earth. It is a fact not an opinion.
Careful America, we start to tell our citizen where they can build their places of worship and the next thing we would have is one religious group telling us all how to live. Be very very careful what you wish for cause you might get it and not the way you want it. Religious freedom is not a joke, and not a political issue and should be taken as serious as gun rights. Careful America think and think hard about what you are saying.
The idea of building a mosque 2 blocks away from Ground Zero is a slap in the face to ALL the victims and their families. How it is that they got approval to build there from NYC is shocking. The fact that their opening date goal is SEPTEMBER 11, should remove any doubt as to their intentions. Rubbing salt into the wounds.
I am sick and tired of bigoted, hateful Americans blaming Muslims and Islam for all the evil in the world. There are plenty of Christians who have hurt and killed people (i.e. the Spanish Inquisition, etc). I wonder how the Japanese of Hiroshima and Nagasaki would feel if American Christians wanted to build churches near the nuclear blast sites of World War Two. Eduate yourselves America! I've been studying Islam recently and it is a beautiful faith. Just because some misguided people have hyjacked the faith, does not mean all Muslims are murderers.
Why don't we see the same outrage for the various Bars, Strip Clubs, Adult book stores, and such in the same area
It is understandable why this is a controversial topic. However, it must be remembered that Islam is not a religion based upon war and death. Think of Christianity, which is also based on peace and loving one's neighbor, but extremists contort the truth so that they may host war. It is important for people to research these topics before they paint a whole group with an opinion. I myself am Christian and I feel no anger towards Muslims demonstrating that they wish for peace to show that they are not all extremists. Therefore, the Mosque, which is two blocks away, should stay.
It is inappropriate and insensitive. Whatever the intentions of those that wish to erect it, this is not the place. A symbol that represents the basic reasons that motivated the 911 attackers has no place in the area. If the Muslim community wishes to erect a memorial to the victims of 911 and express that their view of their religion is counter to the motivations of the attackers, that is one thing. But erecting a mosque is a symbol that would be a symbolic victory for the 911 perpetrators and their supporters, and a symbol that, right or wrong, would offend many Americans. The issue is not about building a mosque, the issue is building a mosque in THAT location.
Ground Zero is sacred ground; to allow a Mosque to be built is to dishonor the people who died there as a direct result of Muslim terrorism. Muslims have not been vocal enough in condemning 9-11 so now is the time for them to show their respect for the victims by abandoning this idea.
With all of NYC available why must this latest Mosque be built near ground zero? It was known at the time of 9/11 that many of the mosques in NYC were peppered with jihadist Mulims and peace observing Muslims. It's hard to tell the difference, even within a mosque.
This isn't an outreach, as the Muslim spokesman on your program said. Who are they reaching out to? The dead at ground zero? This is an insult . Go build on the east side of the city, far, far away from ground zero, if it's possible that anywhere in the city is far enough away.
A equal show of dis respect would be erecting a statue of Tm McVeigh in Oklahoma City with in sight of the park. Or better yet to stir the proper reminder of RESPECTING our fallen friends and relatives.
Lets build a meeting Hall beside each and every MLK statue. Lets see how far the balloon will fly. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out now does it?
Common sense with common respect for those whom can not speak for themselves!
Tony, I challenge you to read this comment on TV. even though it may not be politically correct it is honest and blunt, something Americans forgot the good that comes from honesty, after all those who lead us are the most dishonest, even though we voted for them..
I really don't think building a Mosque near ground zero is a good idea...If this is allowed, it's going to cause more problems between Christians and Muslims.
People have the right to practice their religion where and when they choose. (check the first amendment). The right wing christians love to quote the "violent" aspects of Islam but ignore the "Love and Peace" aspect of it. Rather hipocritical considering the violence in the bible.
This is getting to be like a repeat of when the Mormon's were exiled that didnt end up well either just build the damd thing some wheres else before innocent people get hurt from radical Americans .
If American Muslims cannot see how the radical element of their religion will view the building of a Mosque near Ground Zero, they need to take a look at what the words 'sympathy' and 'empathy' mean to them.
Those of us outraged by the actions of a 'few' radicals in their midst would like to see the same reaction from them. (Where are the
American Mullahs in condemning these actions vociferously and continually to their believers?)
Yes it is great to have a Mosque near ground zero. I cannot put into words right now what that would say to all the world. I am reminded of the comments from a Muslim when we went against Serbia. "You have no idea how much this means to the Muslim world." And the USA military officer in Gulf War I to Iraqi captured soldiers who feared us from what they were told. "We have Muslims in our Army"
I go to Muslim-Jewish-Christian dialog meetings here in the DC area. There are Jews, Christians and Muslims who want to build bridges between religions. However, at the same time there are bigots in these religions who want to sow the seeds of hate. Every church, synagogue and mosque should be respected. Only when the majority in all these religions start doing this, we will have hate in this world.
All the three: Moses, Jesus and Mohammad must be feeling ashamed that their followers are showing so much hate.
However well intentioned, a mosque at ground zero is preposterous & likely to be seen as a triumph, for all the Muslims who danced for joy in the streets, after 9/11. I say put it to a vote and let Americans decide the fate of a mosque on hallowed ground. I won't vote for it!
It is an insult to all Americans!!!!!
hate and fear and ignorance motivated those who flew the planes into the world trade centre-- not islam-–fear is controlled by hate-ignorance is the blindness of hate-hate kills--
I am saddened that some people object to a mosque near Ground Zero.
Would they object to building a church near the site of the Oklahoma City bombing because Timothy McVeigh was a Christian? The America that I know and love stands for tolerance and acceptance of different beliefs. I sympathize with the peace-loving, patriotic Americans who happen to be Muslim. If I were one of them, I would be hurt and offended by these objections.
The atrocities that happened in grand zero, by a few lunatics who think they are Muslims, affected and saddened the majority of Muslims as much as other Americans. In the land of the free why a mosque should offend some people while the constitution of our great country is based on religious freedom.
As a teenager living in a multicultural city I am exposed to many different religions, and I've learned that the word "Islam" in itself means peace, love, tranquility. I don't know who it would offend but ignorant xenophobic Americans, and seeing as there are a lot of them it would be better not to build the place of worship there but rather a few blocks away - however, these same Americans cannot think that the Mosque would be built to offend them. That's just absurd.
Building a Mosque near ground zero is very offensive to most American citizens This plan needs to be stopped ASAP.
I am 25 yrs old, I am
Now medically retired
From being hit by an IED
In Iraq. I joined the
Army because of 9/11, the
Idea of this mosque
Even being considered is disrespectful
To everyone that was
Murdered that horrible day!
Its also 100% disrespectful
To the men and women who have
Died because of those murdered
That horrific day.
Thank You.
Tony I am a muslim and Why not build a mosque near ground zero, it is time to unite as americans and love one another, this what makes America the greatest place on earth.
Yazeed
Building a mosque anywhere near ground zero is a mockery of 911 victims and their families. Rather than spend the millions of dollars I understand that they are paying for this monstrosity, why not divide that money among the families of the victims as a gesture of help. I feel sure these families could use the financial help. This is nothing more than a victory sign for Muslims and a slap in the face to America.
Are you kidding me? A mosque within sight of ground zero is profoundly offensive! There is no way that any reasonable person can see this any other way. It would be like putting a white supremacist center near a synagogue or setting up a sex offenders center near a shelter for abused women and children.
Out of respect for all who were affected, the mosque should not be allowed to be placed so close to ground zero. Moslems should have their right to practice their faith but not at the painful expense of others. Build it somewhere else out of sight from the fallen twin towers.
I don't see any problem for building a mosque in this place or any where in the city, because what happen in 9/11 it's not from Islam or Muslims it just from a group that they want to show them self to the world and they used Islam us protection or us reason if we just read about a real history of Islam we can't talk offensive about Islam us we doing to day.
Tony Islam is one of the most peace loving religion, Quran has numerous ref how to treat people of other faith.
Muslims are contributing a lot to this country and I agree that building a mosque on 9/11 site is a right step in improvng the image of Us in rest of the muslim world. Pakistan from where I am there are churches, mandirs right by the side of a mosque. a
convert*. And everybody i know if you say you're from the Middle east area. They'll say you're a "terrorist" so these terrorists don't want christianity murd there.
The 1.5 billion Muslims who were suggested to be "Peace Loving" have not protested that America has been under siege by other Muslims. Al Quaida has educated America that Christians and Jews are "Infidels" because we are not Muslims. They quote the Koran to justify attacks on the United States over the last 30 years. We have heard complete silence from the rest of the Muslim world regarding the attacks.
Tony:
I lived in Iran for 5 years in the 1960s and found that the reason for a Muslim group doing or saying something often has a hidden agenda. I suggest that CNN try to find out who or what group is financing the mosque. Then you might discover the motive for building it. It could be legitimate or it could serve the purposes of radical Islam, similar to the mollahs who boarded a plane and sat in the same seats of the 911 highjackers.
Gordon Wc Scott, M.D.
Post 9/11...We The American People Have Slowly But Surely Been Stripped Of Our Freedoms...& Our Rights Violated...
On a Everyday Basis...
This Is Just Another Example. :
What Ever Happened To Freedom Of Religon?
Ms. Geller is absolutely correct. It is a slap in the face to Americans. They showed a sign on the news report of a sign thaqt hits the-nail- on-the-head. "Get a spine America...no mosque near the War Memorial."
It's time America stood up to Islam. We need to take our country back before we are over-run!
To build this mosque on that site is a slap in the face to those who died and would be just what the muslims need to justify their holy war. Churches cannot be even be built in many muslem countries. I understand freedom of religion is a right in the US. But, muslims did knock down those buildings in the name of alah. To true muslims, those "peaceful" muslims are infeldels and are targeted for death just as non muslims. As these so call peaceful muslims read and obey what their holy book (koran) actually states they too will become radicalized.
Tony – Simple question: Other faiths have long been banned from operating openly in Islam's birthplace Saudi, in other major Islam cities such as Istanbul etc...emotions aside, simply by looking at the facts why should a Mosque be allowed on Christian grounds and a Church with a Cross not allowed on Islamic grounds where there are million's of Christian faith being practiced silently due to the ban posed by the Islamic authorities............
I think it's cool. If U.S. wants to go to other countries and impose their beliefs on others and pass out Bibles, then building a mosque on Ground Zero should be okay too.
Also, using the logic of others on here, Christianity should be banned because Hitler committed crimes in the name of Christianity.
So its a mosque, when will we put aside religious beliefs and see that we are all human beings no matter what God you serve we all bleed the same color how many people were of islamic faith on 9/11 the bastards that did this will have to pay but why should we make ourselves pay by fueding over religion a place of worship is a place of worship regardless if you r catholic muslim baptist r just don't believe let's get over it and move on we r still at war 8 yrs. Later come on America let's grow up and stop acting like bloods and crips over religion its a freaking mosque
Yes, 9/11 was a tragic day, but theres nothing wrong with building a mosque a couple of blocks away from ground zero. I understand why these people may feel threatned by this, but it's not like the mosque will be built on top of ground zero. Honestly, instead of being angry, people should look at this situation as a peaceful way to end this grudge.
They chanted "Alla ho Akbar on the otherside of ground zero befoe attackiong WTC on 9/11.
Now they want to chant same on the other side of ground zero and spead salt on american wound which will never get healed.
Also would Sudi Arebia allow to build a churh in that counrty?
Hi Tony,
I am a Canadian and we have also been affected by 911 and I am absolutely appalled, no outraged, that there is even a chance that a mosque could be built at the "Twin Towers" site. Whoever thought up this idea, in my opinion, is not playing with a full deck. It is a total insult to me as well as to the many people who lost their lives that day in 2001 (including some of my fellow Canadians). I say NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, ETC., ETC.
Wake up America! People of many faiths were terrorized on 911 – Christians, Jews, Buddists and yes, Muslims. Hate is Hate...but more often, hate is ignorance. Education, Understanding and Tolerance is what we need more of all around the world. Let us build a mosque, temple, chruch and meditation center so that all can God-loving people's of America can worship.
NO MOSQUE near Ground Zero. it would be an absolute insult to the deceased. how about building a lutheran, baptist or catholic church there? why there, why now? the subject makes NO SENSE.
why is united states catering to islam? (President Obama bowing to Islam official) His Holiness, Dalai Lama was recently ushered into White House/Obama meeting through side entrance.
if new york needs a mosque, it should be built FAR AWAY FROM Ground Zero.
My comment is in regard to a mosque being built in the area of ground zero. As you know Canadians were also killed in this terrible incident. As a Canadian we watch CNN quite closely and our view on this is that the mosque definitely should not be built on this site. The muslem people need to have some respect for the feelings of the Americans and Canadians who lost their lives in this terriorist event. Thank you for your consideration of viewing this respnse
A concerned Canadian
There is nothing wrong with building a mosque next to ground zero. Some conservatives are making this a religous war, and it is not. Would the same people have a problem building a church next to the building in Oklahoma City that was blown up by a Christian? The people who committed the horrible acts on 911 do not represent Muslims and the people who blow up abortion clinics and federal building do not represent Christians.
In Islamic countries, Christianity is oppressed & persecuted. Why are we allowing them to celebrate there religion in the land of the free & brave? We are considered "infidels" in there religion & if you know the Koran, they are allowed to bring us " the infidels" down by any means necessary! Weather it be by lies, deception are any other tool. We "the infidels' are not worthy of the truth, something totally opposite of what The Lord Jesus Christ taught :+)
I am a Roman Catholic and i think they should build two Mosques near "ground zero" ... why should this even be an issue???
Have you thought that a Mosque near "Ground Zero" could be a place where peace loving Muslims can go to ask Allah for forgiveness for the sinful acts of their fellow followers?
In my mind there are are too many gods, too many religions. We're all riding around the sun on the same rock, why can't we just get along?
I don't think any religious Mosques or Churches should be built at ground zero. It is a war memorial and should be considered as such and remain religion neutral. Instead a place could be built at ground zero for all people to come and think/pray as they please.
Greg – Little Rock, Ar
I can not believe that New York would let this Religion of hate that is killing people all over the world, put anything, anywhere,especialy near to the sight that they attacted on American soil
When will we learn? For thousands of years, islam's agenda is to KILL its enemies. I pledge destruction of this mosque when finished, just as done to US on 911, unless Muslims clean up their filthy "religion". Madrassas should be our next target
SO THERE!! Enough of this Islamic B.S.
From Canada:
How do you think a Mosque in the middle of Ground Zero is going to improve relations?
If built, this Mosque will inevitably be seen as, or become, THE Islamic Tribute Memorial to the 19 Muslim Hijackers who are considered Heroes for destroying the Twin Towers and 3000 people. Remember all the Muslim countries that showed their citizens dancing in the streets with unabated joy after the destruction.
This the biggest insult to the non Muslim world since the 9/11 event itself.
Taqiyya is the Muslim's way of disguising their true motives.
Can't you just see the jews and christian running to the Islamic Center now with prayer mats to use after a game of basketball with the Muslims? And all the Muslim women hiding when they came?
And for the 29 Politicians who voted in favor of this, may the voters have mercy on your sorry souls next election.
Tony, i tend not to take sides, but building a mosque near the twin towers fallen by islamic terrorists is to me very shameful. it would have been different if this mosque was built "before" the towers were attacked. to build this mosque would be seen as a victory to these people. an outreach or not, blood is thicker than water. these people are hell bent on destroying this country simple for what it stands for, freedom.
Tony,
I say absolutely not to the building of a mosque near ground zero. American Muslims should take a more active role in curbing the violence by there people in the name of Allah, before they think about building places of worship next to a place that was attacked by people who share their walk of faith.
In my opinion, A mosque will only bring more hatred to the area because radical Muslims will use it as an invitation to bring more terror attacks to the area.
Why are Christian-Americans being spiritual snobs? Let the muslims celebrate God, just as we do! Just because some fundamentalistic Muslims attacked us, does not make them all bad. Just remember, fundamentalists in all religions are shameful and dangerous; look at the Fundamentalist Christian polygamists marrying 12 year old girls yet we don't allow those Christians to define us. Muslims are just as ashamed of their fundamentalists–empathize with them when you think of a pregnant 13 year old who never had a choice or Fred Phleps and his attacks on our brave men and women.
The tumor is growing aggressively, if we don't freeze it now, we never will.
I once lived among muslims and they assured me that they will never rest until the whole world is converted to islam.
Anti-American muslims take great joy in symbolic indications that America is weak. That we are afraid of the muslim world. The mosque not only blemishes the site, but is a kick in the head for American beliefs and our way of life. Tear it down!
With the amount of lives lost at this site, why upset any of the relatives or survivors of ground zero?
The building of the mosque would just upset the majority of AMERICANS.
As a non-believer, I would prefer that there not be ANY churches ANYWHERE. However, religions, ALL RELIGIONS, are protected under the U.S. Constitution, end of argrument (see below).
'Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.'
Muslims died at 9/11 too in the same spot as jews, christians and other people of different faith. That lady is hateful Christianist and she and her group should stop picking on muslims. Muslims are Americans too and have the right and freedom to practice their religion as any other faithful people.
What makes christianity a better religion? Christianity have extremist just like Islam, Judaism and any other faith...
The war in Iraq and Afganistan continues to kill so many innocent muslim people. Should we say all christians are bad people?
To Muslims bulding a Mosque indicates victory and annexes the land for Islam forever. According to Islam a Mosque can never be closed down.
Care for a good stoning at Ground Zero?
NYC will have the same conflicts with Muslims over Ground Zero as Jerusalem has over the Temple Mount.
Not to mention that the Mosque apologists are abouit as truthful and believable as Baghdad Bob.
Tony,
Thank you for reporting on this matter. I consider myself an inclusive, open individual with friends from every corner of the globe. Every American understands that the Muslim community may be reaching out with this Mosque. An acceptance of this mosque would show the communities moving forward, healing from the tragedy of September 11th. A very noble idea indeed, but completely out of touch with how I and fellow Americans feel about the violence, the horror, the misguided hate and the loss we all sustained on September 11th.
Building a mosque near Ground Zero is an affront to me. A visceral, NO! I will not stand for the future possibility that the few disturbed people who will pray in that mosque will be planning future attacks on the ground in which we died at their hands.
I will not stand for those few disturbed individuals thinking that we have allowed them right back in, enjoying the irony that future attacks are being planned at the very site of a past attack.
Thank You.
To the woman that said 9/11 occurred because of Islam. Poppycock!
Religions don't do violence. People world wide may twist the words of their holy books to suit their own desires, but make no mistake, it is only people that do this kind of violence.
The hijackers of 9/11 were MUSLIMS, but do not represent Islam. Not allowing the mosque to be built will be showing discrimination against Islam from the U.S as a nation.This is exactly what the hijackers want and wanted, allowing another reason for these hardcore extremist to recruit. We need to differentiate Islam and 9-11. Lets stop putting every accomplishment that Muslims accomplish with 9-11.
The only reason that anyone would protest the establishment of a mosque near ground zero is if you blamed ALL Muslims for 9/11. And if you blame the entire Muslim world for 9/11 then you are ignorant. There is a huge population of Muslim Americans who believe in peace, denounce terrorist activities and support this mosque because it is a symbol and it represents the Muslim Americans who want peace, those who both love Islam and love this country. Yes this is possible and the fact that so many people do not believe it is possible further demonstrates why this mosque is so desperately needed.
Wake up America! People of many faiths were terrorized on 911 – Christians, Jews, Buddists and yes, Muslims. Hate is Hate...but more often, hate is ignorance. Education, Understanding and Tolerance is what we need more of all around the world. Let us build a mosque, temple, chruch and meditation center so that all God-loving people in America can worship at Ground Zero.
Near Ground Zero? ABOUT 600 FEET.
That's near enough to be in the middle of ground zero, The very site itself was damaged from the 9/11 fallout.
Why are people so much against religion. Muslim is no different than being any other religion. Is this woman against a catholic church being built in an area with children because of the priests that harmed children. It is time for people to educate themselves and stop being so hateful against people as a whole because of the war which i believe Bush started and it wasn't only Americans that were killed in 9/11. There were people from the world that all believe and praise God in different religions.People like her that are hateful are the ones that will be answering to God in the end. And people like her are the ones that keep war going.Most people i see in chat rooms that are American are so rasist towards the East and Asia and they don't even know what they are talking about or even know the difference, and the big joke of it is they all say they are God fearing people. They don't know what that means either.
Canada
The woman refering to history is right. Many mosques in India are built over destroyed Hindu temples. If Islam is so peaceful why do majority of current violent conflicts in this world involve Islam and its followers?
If the American Muslim community is truly sympathetic and peace loving, why would they not respect at least the wishes of the families of the victims of 911, and chose to build their mosque elsewhere? They seem to take it as an affront to their own religious freedoms, and don't consider the effects on those personally impacted by 911.
No to a mosque- it would be an ever present reminder that Islamic terrorists broke our hearts that day. It's US PCism at its worst.
A nondenominational place of contemplation should be at Ground Zero. It could be consecrated by clerics representing each of the world's main religions.
That would be an agreeable resolution (except for atheists, who do not have to enter).
First off, "Islamic hijakers" is no the right word for this. These are so-called muslims, extremist muslims. Muslims do not commit such actions.
Muslims have absolutely every right to build a mosque near Ground Zero. Freedom of Religion. Muslims are not humiliating Americans. If anything, Muslims are trying to spread peace and blessing, not only to themselves, but to the lives lost due to unethical actions by the extremist Muslim hijakers.
The protestors of this mosque have to make a clear distinction between muslim extremists and the vast majority of moderate muslims. I am a muslim and I was deeply saddened by the 9/11 attack. Extremists not only kill Americans but they kill other Muslims as well in the middle east and Pakistan. The mosque is not being built by extremists; we would really appreciate if the protestors were to reach out a helping hand to the muslim community so we can fight against extremism together. I believe the mosque will be an outreach to the community for this unity.
Corrected Spelling:
To Muslims building a Mosque indicates victory and annexes the land for Islam forever. According to Islam a Mosque can never be closed down.
Care for a good stoning at Ground Zero?
NYC will have the same conflicts with Muslims over Ground Zero as Jerusalem has over the Temple Mount.
Not to mention that the Mosque apologists are about as truthful and believable as Baghdad Bob.
Ironically, Congress passed a law a few years ago with strong conservative support to prohibit zoning and other state and local governmental restrictions that prevent or limit the building of any place of religious worship in any location where commercial and other uses with similar traffic burdens, etc. are permitted. It is called the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act ("RLUIPA"). 42 U.S.C. section 2000c-1. RLUIPA would appear to require that a mosque be permitted near ground zero.
A Mosque should not be built on the site of ground zero. It defames the people that died there. My question is, Where were all the Muslims on 9/11 that want us to build this mosque there? I have not heard many of them speaking out against the violence and murder being committed by extremist Muslims. My advice to them, if they want our cooperation, is to speak up against fundamentalist Islam.
I am opposed to the building of a mosque near ground zero. Is there a Japanese generarated building or monument in Pearl Harbor? The young man of Muslim faith who spoke for support of the mosque downtown, seems like a genuinely nice person of faith. I respectfully request that he use his faith to understand why so many people are opposed to a mosque near the hallowed ground where hundreds of New Yorkers were turned into ash. The mosque can be built in another area not far from where they want to build, but not in the face of those who died and their families. Muslims need to understand the magnitude of the terrorism that took place. The victims were every day citizens going to work to earn a living. It was a dispicable and disgusting attack that does not deserved our non intervention in the building of a mosque. The souls of the dead and the families of the deceased do not need a mosque in their faces for eternity. Give them Peace.
The true accountability for the 911 attacks has not really been established. There exists significant basis supporting the argument that elements within the US Government (or surrogates) at the time were either complicit in the attacks or may even have been directly involved. We have never had an open investigation by impartial parties that would answer all of these questions. It has simply been swept under the rug and ignored by the Government and the Mainstream, corporate media. It is not going away and merely highlights the true attitude of the Government/Corporatocracy towards the people. It is an attitude of disdain and hostility. If I as a citizen can't have the truth from my Government then I really have nothing.
Tony.. To me that woman if clearly a raciest person and is spreading hate within New York.. With myself being a atheist I still believe that ones faith belongs to everyone under the constitution of the United States.. That Mosque has the right to be built there just like any other church.. That woman is a self proclaimed fool and she don't speak for all Americans.. And she don't speak for me..
I saw a brief clip about building mosque 2 blocks from ground zero and personally I think nothing wrong with that. Banning or opposing such building is implies to Muslims not only in USA but around the world as brushing or painting the entire Muslims as a terrorist and it is a dangerous view. What happened to freedom of worship and the "the land of free?" in USA. Those who oppose building mosque wherever and whenever in USA or in the west in general sound hypocrites, and have a skewed view of what freedom means. If we in the west act like those countries with no freedom of doing anything, then we are no better than those whom we are fighting and preaching to bring about freedom to them either ideologically or militaristically as we currently are doing in Iraq and Afghanistan.
David
From Toronto, Canada
Absolutley not. But america is for sale and the oil rich extremist are buying it up. The day will come when americans are foreighners in their own country.
Everyone who is offended by the location of this mosque needs to sell their car today and buy a bike. If our lazy addiction to cheap oil didn't require a huge military presence in Muslim countries, we likely wouldn't be having this debate, and the Twin Towers would still be standing.
This argument is completely hypocritical. If the people in Oklahoma City wanted to build a church by where the bombing took place there would be no debate.
If the group that wants to build the mosque has the money and enough people that would visit the mosque then they have every right to build it there.
The presence of a mosque would be appropriate at Ground Zero only if It included an accompanying memorial declaration by a majority of U.S. American Muslim leaders across the United states who clearly state that Muslims in America cherish the freedom of religion experienced here, condemn the hijacking of Islam by Islamic terrorists, appeal for Muslims worldwide to embrace freedom of expression of all religions in all countries, and express deep sorrow for the loss of lives of their American brothers and sisters and the terrible destruction inflicted on this great country.
A place of worship was never a place turmoil , even mosques included
Why they want to built it beside ground Zero .........
just think about , why that close ?
let them give an answare !
In my deepest opinion as a 22 year old from STL who has many friends Bosnian,Iraqi,and other middle eastern nationalities from war torn countries who fled here from genocide I believe we as a nation are doing minimal to progress our beliefs in respecting these people and their religions. Heaven forbid any oppose Christianity in one of these countries, if we or any other western nation decided to build churches, I feel for the people who suffered loss in 9/11, but I feel even more for their loss of empathy and common sense in regards of being unable to see that these people suffer great loss just as much as Anyone and regardless of location, who are we to declare any site unfit for worship by any religion.. Oh I forgot, we're big bad America and we only stand up for issues that have no relevance to the immediate well being of our people and our real issues we have I'm this country people only want to take to the streets it seems when race and religion is a factor. A nation, big or small can only stand tall when in fact they acquire a backbone.
We are a country who respects freedom of religion. Regarding the issue of a mosque at ground zero, how about simply having a multi-cultural/religious center representing all religions (Christian, Muslim, Jewish, etc.). This would be more supportive of peace and healing. Just a thought.
msb
It should be up to the people that lost their love ones on 9-11 . If it ok with them . Then they can biuld it .
What's wrong with USA? I tought that 911 would open our eyes..To let build a mosque near ground zero is humiliating to the American people..
Tony,
The muslims want us to give way to them. According to one, the muslims are the tree and we are the soil and must give way. I think not.
Bottom line, they hate us and want us to convert to their absurd religious practices. Go back to your arab countries of origin. Get our of America. They do not deserve the privelege of living here.
Like that crazy Hasan who shot our army personnel, they are violent hateful people, as a whole.
Not near ground zero, not in america. GO HOME.
The true accountability for the 911 attacks has not really been established. There exists significant basis supporting the argument that elements within the US Government (or surrogates) at the time were either complicit in the attacks or may even have been directly involved. We have never had an open investigation by impartial parties that would answer all of these questions. It has simply been swept under the rug and ignored by the Government and the Mainstream, corporate media. It is not going away and merely highlights the true attitude of the Government/Corporatocracy towards the people. It is an attitude of disdain and hostility. If I as a citizen can't have the truth from my Government then I really have nothing.
I cannot believe that these people have the gall to want to build a mosque not far from where they killed 3000 people. Go somewhere
else. The people of Switzerland have voted to ban minarets in their
country. Europe is taken over by Islam. Are we going to let our countrty
to fall like Europe? Wake up and figjht for the 9/11 victims who were slaughtered by the islamique terrorists.
Would you ask if it is OK for Catholics to build a church near the site of the Oklahoma city bombing?
In response to Dan, I would have to add the Holocaust museum shooter, the Hutaree militia, Bruce Edwards Ivins, Joseph Stack, Scott Roeder, the Unabomber, and the 1963 Birmingham church bombing by the Ku Klux Klan to the list of non Muslim terrorists along side Tim McVeigh and Terry Nichols.
Tony, I believe 110% the comments from the woman about not building that mosque near ground zero.
The building of that mosque is “ a slap in the face for America” and only reopens the grief, sorrow, and
anger that 911 represents.
Greg
First, I would like to know what they mean by "near" Ground Zero. The mosque would replace the Burlington Coat Factory building, which is several blocks away from Ground Zero. The people who bombed the twin towers almost 9 years ago are cowards and do not represent Muslims anymore than Timothy McVeigh and David Koresh represent Christians. Not allowing the mosque to be buit because it somehow represents some kind of disrespect to the 911 victims, many of which were in fat law abiding Muslims going about their own business at the WTC on that sad September day, would be a discrimination againts law abiding Muslim Americans and a violation of their constitutional rights. Enough with the hate in either directions! We all know hate begets hate and the better one is he/she who lends a hand and stops to listen rather than continuously shouting over the others.
Only the most ignorant would so actively oppose the building of a Muslim mosque by Ground Zero. If they were building statues in honor of the terrorists that planned and performed these reprehensible acts, that would be a different argument and they would have my full support. This mosque, just like a church or synagogue, is being built to worship a religon that believes in peace, love, and a higher calling. You can not blame a religon for the acts of some of its followers who twist the religon to meet their own agenda. Supporters/followers of the Catholic church and Christianity should jknow this better than anyone. Slavery, witch hunts, and the crusades are just a few things that were done or justifiedin the name of religon. Does that mean we should tear down or prevent any churches from being built?
Muslims died in those towers as well read the victims list. It is not a christian monument and we can't ban a mosque from being built in the entire lower-manhattan area.
Many more thousands of Pakistanis have died fighting Al-Queda than Americans.
Claiming that all muslims are responsible for 9/11 is like saying all christians are responsible for the Holocaust. It shows the racism of their accusers.
It is absolutely offensive to disregard the feelings and concerns of survivors and victims families.
To suppose that accomodating muslims needs for places of worship will somehow bring peaceful dialogue between religions which at their core are antithetical is ridiculous.
Build the mosque, but build it somewhere that will show respect for the differences in belief, not attempt to bind Americans to similarities for the sake of global agendas.
This is political and stupid. and unnecessary.
I don't think this is a smart decision – to give permission to build a mosque next to the very same "site of memories" of so many people. To think about it, people are really hurt and will be more hurtful to see the symbol (mosque) of those who carried out such act. It is not fair to Americans... I respect all devout muslims, but this COULD NEVER happen in a Islamic country. Cut some slack USA, give Americans some peace of mind please...!!!!
I would be leery of this decision. One of Al Qaeda's top guns has just been eliminated and a botched attempt to disrupt the lives of Americans and New York city failed. Why blocks from Time Square? Al Qaeda may be feeling defeated right now and they are thinking of ways to retaliate. Building this mosque could possibly be a way. Do not allow it to happen America, PLEASE!!!
Why is this even a question? Since when does a mosque represent a minority group of extremists, rather than the millions of peaceful Muslims worldwide? By blaming Islam, and not the distorted views of terrorists, for the attacks, we are only spreading hatred and ignorance. If a mosque is "offensive", doesn't that imply that Islam as a whole is offensive? What's next? Should Muslims be banned from Ground Zero? Should they not be permitted to wear hijabs in New York City? Should the hundreds of Muslims serving in the U.S. Army in both Iraq and Afghanistan be discharged because they are somehow "offensive" to the cause? Not to mention the blatant violation of the first amendment, this is offensive and ridiculous.
Why do Muslims refer building a mosque near ground zero as outreach? If Muslims are really respectful of American citizen's wishes they would defer. If not, they are in for a battle they do not want to start. Find another outreach program like cleaning own house of radical Muslims.
Jihadists are bad news for other Moslems who want a normal and peaceful life, and people of other religions mainly Christians and Jews their main targets. They should stand together to stop the villains.
Tony;
As a proud athiest I would argue that all churches are improperly subsidized through property tax laws. I deeply resent being forced to cover the property tax exemption afforded all centers of worship be they Chrisatian, Muslim, Jewish or any other belief system.
Wasilla, Alaska
I think the building of a mosque at ground zero is inappropriate as well as extremely insensitive! It will not smooth over feelings between Muslims and other religions. As soon as they allow a Christian church construction next to the black stone in Mekka we should allow a mosque at ground zero. In the mean time do like the Swiss, allow no more noisy mosques in this country!
As lj, it has every right to be built. Islam is not a religion of hate, at the very root of Islam is the factor of love. The basis of the quran is preaching love. The fact of the matter is that there are only a tiny fraction of extremists in Islamic culture.
Moreover, I believe that building the mosque in New York City will prove America to be the better country. Americans will be sending a positive message to the Muslim culture. However angry people may be, us Americans have to show a united front and show that we are a good gracious country as we claim to be.
An absolute insult to the families that lost love ones on 9/11. Only 2 miles from the location of one of the ugliest attacks on our country in history and people want to build a place of worship for the fuel behind the fire.
I'm not gonna stand here and accuse all muslims of being blood thirsty wolves, because I know it's untrue, but the fact is that September 11th, 2001 was an act of war. So tell the politicians to stop the rhetoric because building this mosque of the ruins of the world trade center is like flying an islamic flag of victory over our country.
Just build it somewhere else.
MOSQUE:near ground zero? absolutly not! that would be like the Japanese building a temple near the Arizona war memorial at Pearl harbour,Islam needs to be more sensitive about these issues.The" in your face approch" they have adopted in America espescially around Sensitive areas is a deliberate insult to America, lets call it for what it is,they have a thinly veiled agenda, that may back fire on both the moslem community and the U.S, An American would truly be sensitive to such issues,and not propose such an" in your face"we have the right to do this" .did we allow the germans to build a war memorial to the SS at auswitz, NO that would be insane,Iregardless of how moderate some Islamic sects are the differance between a moderate and extreamist is a flip of a switch, move the mosque be more sensitive about American ideals and Americanism, if you live in the United States, you have a responsibility to America, not just to Islam,or any other religion.That responibility is to be belong and be tolerant ,and Senitive to other AMERICANS
As l0ng as the mosque isn't built right next door or on Ground Zero itself, it has every right to be built. Islam is not a religion of hate, at the very root of Islam is the factor of love. The basis of the quran is preaching love. The fact of the matter is that there are only a tiny fraction of extremists in Islamic culture.
Moreover, I believe that building the mosque in New York City will prove America to be the better country. Americans will be sending a positive message to the Muslim culture. However angry people may be, us Americans have to show a united front and show that we are a good gracious country as we claim to be.
First of all connecting Islam and muslims to the few extremist groups who kill innocent people (including muslims) is pure ignorance. A true muslim believes in peace and harmony and would never thing about harming anyone. To say that muslims are not allowed to build mosque near ground zero is labeling Islam and all muslims as a terriorist which is truly offensive and unacceptable.
Tony, love your segment on CNN....Islam is not the threat, being Muslim is a right, just like, those fore fathers who arrived from England escaping religious persecution. Would the lady feel different if a Jewish synagogue, Protestant Church or Buddhist Temple was being built? Of course she would. We would not be having this argument. What a silly way to show the entire world how prejudice she is against others. She is trying to establish a pattern of racism.......all it takes is one racially motivated person screaming to the masses before the anti-Islamic chorus join in.
Wow.... Let the hatred begin War Mongers! As Americans if we truly want to aspire to the ideals of "The Bill of Rights / US Constitution then what greater example and testiment of than to place a Mosque at Ground Zero. 1) It shows that as Americans we are better and stronger than a BS attack to a a building. 2) Islam is a religion of peace. If you are anti-Islam then you are also by default anti-christian and anti-semitic as they are all from the God of Abraheem (check you stones before you throw at a glass house). There are no religions that sanction attacks in the name of itself that I'm aware of. There will be more colateral damage from the BP spill in the Gulf than from the WTC. How about some constructive actions toward a solution there?
An absolute insult to the families that lost love ones on 9/11. Only 2 miles from the location of one of the ugliest attacks on our country in history and people want to build a place of worship for the fuel behind the fire.
I'm not gonna stand here and accuse all muslims of being blood thirsty wolves, because I know it's untrue, but the fact is that September 11th, 2001 was an act of war. So tell the politicians to stop the rhetoric because building this mosque over the ruins of the world trade center is like flying an islamic flag of victory over our country.
Just build it somewhere else.
There is nothing peaceful in Islam. Yes, they say "peace be upon you" when they see each other, but who is "You"?
"you" is NOT a Christian.
"you" is NOT a Jew.
"you" is NOT any non-Muslim for that matter.
"you" is a male Muslim only.
Constrction of a mosque in ground Zero is a direct insult to the US nation and a mockery of their beliefs.
Let them build a mosque only if there was only one church built in Saudi Arabia in the last 100 years.
As a 9/11 family member who lost my son Firefighter Timothy Welty at the WTC, I strongly Support building a cultural center and mosque near Ground Zero. Whereas the attacks of 9/11 were an act of hatred and anger, this cultural center will be a symbol of inclusiveness and healing, welcoming all in the community to come to its events, regardless of differences of faith. This country was founded to foster religious freedom. Let us adhere to the vision of our founding fathers not the vitriol that caused the attacks on our nation.
Adele Welty
Flushing, NY
Mother of Firefighter Timothy Welty
FDNY, Squad 288
The issue of a mosque at the world trade center site is nothing more than the right wing doing what it has done so well for the last 30 years, fear mongering. I find it funny that for a political sect that so loves and embraces the constitution, the forget what it actually says. Freedom of speech is all speech, not just the words that come from like minded individuals. Freedom of religion applies to all religions, not just theirs. Those horrible acts of Sept. 11 were not committed by the 1.5 billion Muslims of the world but by a select group of fanatics. They hid behind the mask of Islam, but were that not available to them, they would have found some other idea, religion or cause to justify there actions. Were Terry Nicols and Timothy McVeigh Muslims? How about Ted Kaczynski or Eric Rudolph? All these men committed acts of terrorism on American soil and killed Americans. Yet there is no mention of their religion when we talk about them. Where is the outrage in New York for the deaths that the IRA has caused? The right wing in this country plays to a specific demographic, people who either don't have the time or the desire to understand the facts. They prefer to be spoon fed easy to swallow talking points and have their insecurities used against them. A mosque near the WTC site is no more offensive than a church near Centennial park.
I am so upset about what happen on September 11th. But come on folks, don't brand all Muslims as bad people. We have over a million people living in the america, that love this counrty as much as we do. I see no problem with them wanting to put a Mosque up two blocks away from grounk zero. They love america to.
The New York Mosque
I feel it should NOT be built…I feel it would be like spiting in the face of all those who died on 9-11. As for the greeting that the young man said proves they (the Muslims) are all about peace….well that is just another Muslim con job. Why you ask, well that is the same greeting Hamas, Taliban and al-Qaeda use…so what is his point. The Muslims of this great nation believe we are the infidel in our own country….it is time we take back our American core beliefs and that means fighting for them… well…so be it. By this I mean if we have to go to court or get petitions going and yes public opinion then we shall do it….Look at the Tea Party do you think they would be around if they (the American Tax Payers) weren’t afraid of what is happening in this country. Of course it doesn’t help having a PRO Muslim in our White House. God Help Us.
JZach
AZ
The mosque will be a symbol of victory for terrorists world wide.
When reciprocity is given to build a synagogue, a Lutheran, Methodist or Unitarian house of worship next to the Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, or any where in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, or Yemen, we can then believe the construction of a mosque in or near ground zero to be a symbol of peace.
yes build it they need something to be proud of we can change our money to instead of in god we trust, to what ever the hell they pray to , we can all start dressing in or bed sheets while were at it crazy right but is it any crazyer then that plain .lets just give up and let them move in and start killing all of us and then when they are done they can go pray at ground zero,if it happens normal good people will turn to being extreamist, if my wife died there and they did that there would be hell to pay.
I feel that if America doesn't stand up to this then all hope is lost. If they are allowed to put up that mosque I am sure that anti-American movements all over the world would cheer and undermine all of the measures we have in place to preserve the American way of life. If they taste success they will want more, and I don't think we can afford to underestimate them. The American way of life has changed so much in the last 20 years that it is amazing that more people aren't fleeing the country hoping to find a place to fit in. Our education system is failing, our economy is in the tank,we are in senseless wars on multiple fronts, our resources are dwindling, we have failed our seniors, and the land of the overachiever has been underachieving for way too long. When are people going to realize that we can only support so many people on what we have and we were over populated before we even counted any immigrants. I get up every morning and look over my fence and look at a mosque next door, didn't really notice how many there were until they finished the one behind me. Now I can't keep myself from seeing them, and if they put that mosque where so many Americans died innocently that would be such an insult to me that it would shake my faith in whats left of America. Now if I feel that way and I have never been to New York , can you imagine what those suffering Americans must be feeling?
If it isn't alright to build a Mosque near Ground Zero in NYC, then Thomas Jefferson never lived and this isn't the USA.
If these people are only looking for a place to pray and practice their
religion and are so "peace loving", why build there???? A "peace loving" people would not add to the pain and suffering that New York has all ready
had to endure!! Are there no other places they are able to build in a city
that size??? Why that city at all??? Answer, why that spot, why that city?? Let them prove how "peace loving" they actually are by building somewhere that is not so sensitive!!!!
To al root. Are the muslims trying to build the mosque not americans? And does this not upset them? I believe that the right thing to do would be to build the mosque, but they might as well build it a little farther away to avoid controversy
This issue is very simple, to deny the construction of a mosque or any other religious building is a blatant violation of the constitutional rights guaranteed to EVERY citizen of the United States; religious freedom. People are trying to make this something it is not; a symbol representing "victory", an Islamic "invasion", or somehow showing disrespect to those who lost their lives. All of these reasons demonstrate ignorance at its best, and shows that people still believe that Muslim hatred for America is widespread among Islamic people. Over a billion Muslims are peace-loving and have nothing to do with the minority that makes up Islamic- extremist terrorists. Islam preaches a message of a peace, not war. Christendom invented the idea of holy war first so There needs to be a re-evaluation of the world that we have all contributed to shaping. Looking at things from a single point of view and creating false motives for this establishment is insensitive and disrespectful. Muslim-Americans fight in our military, heal our patients, teach our children, and the fact that they are Muslim does not make these people any less American and they rightfully deserve the placement of their building wherever they want, especially since there is no direct link between the motives of extremists compared to that of Islam as a whole. We need to distinguish the motives of nation-states from the actual beliefs of everyday people, on both sides. Islamic-extremists don't even favor structures associated with mosques, such as minarets, because they are the creations of Muslim architects that embraced the wave of enlightenment humans experienced after the Middle Ages; a Western ideal that to them sullied the validity of such an innovation. These people are living in another time and are crazy! This does not represent them all and does not represent a victory for the terrorists who committed these horrific acts of violence.
Quoting your guest: 1.5 billion Muslims who respect peace? Islam is NOT a religion of peace! It is an ideology based on intolerance and subjugation. When Islamic scholars, peacefully undertake rewriting their tenets of faith, to include ALL Peoples, cultures. religions & freedoms, instead of advocating the killing or forcefully converting non-Muslims, across the poorest of nations & peoples, then the perception of this ideology's dualistic ethics and hypocrisy may change. Until then, Islam is a threat to our way of life & is the enemy of freedom & liberty.
Yes, they should build it ... it is a great idea and I encourge that also a Church and a Synagogue be built near by as a sigh of reconciliation and peace among all religons. you can'l allow those few fanatics and people with extreme views dictate the agenda. We have to learn and do better at living togther rather than divide. Enough division!
Congrats NY city for allowing this!
I believe that not every Muslim is an extremist, and that there are many that are peaceful. Just like I believe not every Christian is violent, or any other person in any other religion. But with recent events with these extremists able to travel from one place to another, learn how to make bombs, come back here and try to pull them off....I think building this is disrespectful as well as strategic. I don't agree with this mosque being built on ground zero (might as well be). Not until some time has passed, there is some evidence that these peaceful Muslims come out and tell these extremists to stop, and protest what they're doing...protest what they're doing is wrong, and to be peaceful.
As far as being peaceful, I was in a taxi and was having a good conversation with a Muslim... until he told me I was going to hell automatically unless I converted. How do you advocate peace, and then the next second with a menacing look and voice, tell the person they're going to hell automatically?
I think tensions are high and this is a problem that will not be solved anytime soon.
It serves no purpose to dialogue the anger that such a thing suggests. So, all I can say is that the lady is right: primary example being Jerusalem!
Lenora
This is a total insult to the victims and the American people of the bombings on September 11 2001. This would be like rubbing in the face of these people with no respect for their loses, and like saying this is for their victory of the bombings. This would never be allowed in any other country if the Americans did this, and then wanted to build like a United States building or monument right next door to the disaster. The city of New York and the state of New York and the United States Government should not allow it. We should not be worried about being politically correct or giving in to the Islams for even considering such a request.
We recognized the great freedom and democracy of this wonderful nation as the expression of our freedom of religious practices which must continue to rain free. However, the attack on our great nation on 9/11 did not represent the majority of the American population and will continued to pose negativity towards Muslims religious practices that quickly be transformed into such hatred towards non practicing participants of such religion.
It was common in past religions times that when the conquering country takes over its enemy, they build their religious shrine on top of their defeated foe most sacred location. Could this be as such? Questions to ask; Are non-Muslims Americans not viewed as an enemy? Would any Muslim around the globe allow the American people to build a Christian center next to Mecca? Well, New York City is our Mecca that represents a great part of American culture. Build the mosque but build it somewhere else and do not use political propaganda to insult our great nation.
It is simply wrong to hold all members of a group responsible for the alleged acts of a small group of perpetrators. Incidentally, whose crimes have not been established beyond a shadow of a doubt in a proper court of law. To do so is just to judge based on prejudice. There may be other reasons to deny permission to build a mosque near Ground Zero but responsibility for the 911 attacks should not be one of them.
We need more and more people to come out to ground zero and protest the building of the mosque. It's absurd that they should get to build mosques near the place of the bombing of the world trade towers. Everybody come and protest and show the muslims that we hate them!
I don't feel its right to blame an entire religion for some fanatics. There are fanatics in all religions. If you know a Muslim person, then you would understand how they really are. Peaceful. What's next? No churches near the OK City Memorial? Or the near the Oylmpic Park in Atlanta? Or near abortion clinics that have been attacked? Come on.
There are 600-800 thousand muslims in New York City. They shoudn't ask anyone's permission to build a mosque anywhere here any more than people get to protest a church, a mosque or a black baptist church in their neighborhood.
The "protesters" to a mosque demonstrate the level of racism present in this country. Racists like these protesters are the ones who don't "belong" in multi-cultural new york city
The fact that CNN is posing this as a "pro" and "con" arguement is putting these racists on equal footing with regular americans. It is as valid as having a pro and con for integrated schools and making it look like they are somehow equally accepted points of view. CNN should be ashamed of themselves elevating these racists, and should be reporting it as "racists decend on mosque"
Although I can certainly see why people are so passionate about the planned 9/11 mosque, we should rise above the bigotry and understand that the vast majority of Muslims are not the radicals/extremists many of us would like to think they are. As a free-thinking American, I strive to judge people by their individual merits, not by what the "extreme" right- or left-wingers, or the media, would like us to believe. Are all Catholics pedophiles? Are all evangelicals homosexual adulterers? NOT EVEN CLOSE! Not too long ago, Catholic Crusaders were slaughtering Muslims for land that weren't even theirs.
I know for a fact that not all Muslim people are behind the attacks on the United Sates and our Soldiers abroad. But to think that this will bring us closer to Muslim people is far from the truth. What about the families that lost someone in the attacks. I know that the proposal for the site had to be submitted for some time, why the New York people are only now finding out about it. Our laws and regulations are the most relaxed in the world many people from different countries come to the US to live and thrive. But times are changing and we may have to see more security in airport and more thorough background checks on everyone requesting to become an American. We have to take a stand and protect our homes, families and the “American Way”.
Until the Jews are allowed to build a Temple at the Mount in Jerusalem by the Moslems, no deal in New York, huh!
Please allowa mosque near ground zero. Also a church, synagogue, temple, and any other requested religious spaces. Yes, some terrorists are religious, but not all observant persons are terrorists. If we deny observant persons the opportunity to worship and pray in important places, we will only widen the chasm that has started. Intolerance must not create further intolerance.
Of course they shouldn't build the center at Ground Zero, as the radicals will use that to claim victory over America. We can deny that use for this site and it not be discriminatory. It is called common sense.
A clear act ofinsensitivity...and then they will be surprised when acts of violence are committed during the building of the mosque. From insensitivity to ingnorance.
I love my country deeply. I will hold the freedoms and rights we have as American citizens dear to my heart till I die and I will most certainly never forget those who died on that day, almost 10 years ago. I still remember where I was when I found out, my dad woke me up and told me what had happened and that my uncle there was safe. That day sparked my intense patriotism. That all said, we should let them build. Because this is America, we need to let it go. We do not bar Japanese from Pearl Harbor. Our Second Amendment tells us that we need to allow other religions to exist here peacefully. I know Muslims personally and they are all a patriotic as I am. As we all are. Islam is most certainly at its heart a peaceful religion, with its fringe wackos, like all other groups. But we cannot let our fear of Muslims dictate which freedoms are delegated to which groups. That is the edge of the slippery slope to tyranny. We cannot allow a "Muslim Internment" like we allowed the Japanese internment.
No I think the idea of this mosque should be no where near the site. What happened on Sept 11 will not be forgotten and there is no way will we tolerate this.
Building the mosque "near" ground zero will not desecrate the 911 ground. Using the opponents logic I suppose we should prohibit ALL mainland Japanese from visiting Pearl Harbor. Obsurd!
Tony,
Suppose Christian terrorists blew up the Muslim Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, and then "good" Christians decided to build a cathedral on the spot. How do you suppose Muslims would feel about that?
Sometimes political correctness can be taken way too far.
The simple facts of the matter are:
(1) Most prople of any religion just want to get along and feed their families.
(2) Would there be such a controversy about banning a Roman Catholic church had the towers been blown up by the IRA?
(3) This type of publicity is a priceless recruiting tool for the very extremists who attacked the Towers.
Building the Ground Zero mosque is not an issue of religious freedom, but of resisting an effort to insult the victims of 9/11 and to establish a beachhead for political Islam and Islamic supremacism in New York. Ground Zero mosque Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf is an open proponent of Sharia, Islamic law, a system that denies the freedom of speech, the freedom of conscience, and the equality of rights of all people before the law.
What if people didn't allow a christian church near the site of the Oklahoma City bombing? This is America, A secular country, not a Christian country. Doesn't anyone remember we are so great because people of ALL types are free to (or not to) worship any god or religion.
If muslims build their mosque near ground zero, then christians should have right to build churches in mecca or anywhere in mid east.
I beleive it will be a constant reminder of the unprovoked attack on your preciouss countre resulting in the toss of over 3000' lives, it would be a dibecory and the third greatest insult this country will and should never enduye, my god people hiw much more/ where will it end? oh #1 Dec 7 1941, #2 911 # 3 do not let it happen, in america we do have freedoms, not fredoms to be abused and this mosque is a affromt to the americam way of life, look what is jhappimimg in france!.
I was a freshmen in high school when 9-11 happened and to be honest with myself, I believe that they should be allowed to build a Mosque for the simple fact that they have the right to build it.
I have read several comments made on this blog and I have to admit for a country that claims to be open we have a lot of bigots, I mean we are blaming a religion for something that a few nut cases did and that disappoints me. That would be like blaming all American for something the KKK does to someone.
Everyone was hurt in 9-11, not just American, has anyone every asked was there anyone that was practiced Islamic who died on that die that was not a terrorist. Were there innocent victims who didn't believe in their cause that died on that day.
Let them build it.
It is a sad state of affairs that people think they have a right to protest someone else's religious building.
All of the negative comments here are really negative comments about our own country. We are the ones who are close minded. We are the ones who think that our religion must dominate others. We are the ones banning other's religious freedom.
There are 1.5 billion muslims on this planet, and millions in this country and a million in New York. THEY are victims of the bombing as well (look at the victims list there are plenty of muslims there). THEY are the ones fighting and dying for US in the middleast.
WE are the ones who are characterizing it as a war of christianity against Islam. WE are the racists. We have seen the enemy and it is us.
Tony!
This question seems to follow the same lines as Helen Thomas' comments about Jewish people.
It does not matter if it's a mosque, church or a synagogue.
When will Americans learn to not treat groups monolithically? This center is intended to promote understanding of a wonderful, peaceful religion; a mosque is not a terrorist cell. As an agnostic, I see the potential for any religion to be subverted to evil ends (and most have). Please open your eyes to the fact that MORE understanding and tolerance are needed in the world. Railing against this center will not solve terrorism, only expand it.
The idea of that is absurd, for the same reason we don't build a cathedral in downtown Abu Dahbi . It would be an insult to our country and the people who died in the muslim attack. We accept all religions but we should not be insulted or assaulted by any of them. Build that thing somewhere else-–far away.
I am not muslim, but a few of my best friends are, they are not extremists, they are decent people, a mosque is a holy sanctuary for muslims, the religion promotes peace through the power of god, it has over 1.5 billion followers world wide. Having a mosque near ground zero shouldn't be considered an insult because of what some extremists have done, people are just unaware of the beauty of the religion. The mosque should represent peace near ground zero and not hostility.
Tony, the answer depends on who you view as responsible for September 11th. If you believe that 'Islam' and all Muslims are to blame then the mosque would be an insult. If you believe that Muslims themselves were among the victims and terrorists using the name of Islam are the ones to blame then why would you not want this mosque to be built? I am a Muslim and know that the extremist would love nothing more than to grow hatred between Americans like this so they can recruit more and more to be extremist. Please don't play into their goals!
If there are Catholic, Baptist, Buddist, Jewish, and other religion churches in the area, why not a Muslim church? It's terrorists we are at war with, not the Muslim religion. They are not at war with us. What religion was McVeigh when he blew up that building in Oklahoma. Is there a church of that religion in the area? Should we demolish or close it?
This is absurd and offensive! America it's time to take the blind fold off!
It would send a message to the entire Muslim world that Muslims have conquered and taken possession of New York. The Mosque can be placed anywhere, but not where it would spark so much anger.
Mary Loury
Wanting to build a mosque at that site is at best insensitive. It seems that there is a practice of the muslums to build mosques at the site of a victory. Also, it should be considered that the people involved in the destruction of the twin towers were ALL MUSLUMS. What do you think would be the reaction to building a statue of Timothy McVeigh at the site of the Oklahoma City bomb site?
They are using the "it's for the 1.5 BILLION peaceful muslims 'worldwide' argument" HINT: The United States of AMERICA is [NOT] muslim. How long will it be before New Yorkers organize a 'daily' call 911 EVERYDAY event that they heard someone plant a bomb in the building. Tick off the New York 911 system by overwhelming calls to the same place and I bet ya it won't be built.
it seems they want to do it as an act of friendship to help create open dialog and show that they are not all terrorists. Good idea, but just not there. 600' away is still too close. i would suggest several miles away where their religious site will be respected. Too close and it might be leveled by people that feel they want revenge. The wounds are still too raw for the mosque to be there. Be sensible, be someplace else.
Muslims are wolves in sheeps clothing. Not even their own neighbors know them. "I didn't know he/she was a terrorist" Thats what the neighbors say when their muslims partners blow up Americans. They will use this mosque as intel gathering site to hit us when we least expect it. Then will say praise to Allah. Never should we allow this. Never!
I cannot believe that they would even consider building this Mosque near ground zero. Hasn't our america been through enough? That would be a slap in the face to not only the American people, but to the families that lost loved ones in 911, not counting the families who are losing loved ones over seas fighting this never ending battle. Please do not allow this to happen. The American People need to wake up, and take our country back.
Building a mosque so close to the towers does not show tolerance. It shows extreme insensitivity for the lives lost because of an out of control segment within that religion. I still remember the thundering silence from that community after 9/11. It has not been forgotten that Muslims approved of the attack because in their minds, America deserved it. No mosque. Not now, not ever.
This is the equivalent of Nazi Germany building a Hitler Synagogue in Jerusalem.
Since when is Muslim the same as terrorism? It is extremely derogatory to equate the two! Need we remind ourselves that the terrorists that were responsible for the tragedies of 9/11 were members of EXTREMIST GROUPS, not just members of the Muslim faith? I'm a Christian and I have no qualms about the mosque being built near (news reports have stated 2 blocks away from) ground zero.
Because this is America..... If a cathedral, a temple, a church would be built in the same space, then there is no reason a mosque should not be built there.
Funny how vociferous you are in your demand to build the mosque, and anything less would be racist. Kind of like if someone doesn't like Obama they must be a racist. There is no direct corrollation. The reason it should not be build is out of respect for the people who died who do not support this, and the known fact that OBL and other extremists will use this as propoganda. There is nothing lost to the peace loving muslims in America to locate their mosque close by elsewhere. But the downside to other Americans may be huge. Common sense not racism is why this should be denied.
Live and let live...........
The terrorists represent a small minority of Muslims who want to wage violent jihad in America, and in no way represent the greater Muslim culture.
As an American who was profoundly affected by 9/11, I believe it is of great importance for New York to set an example for the rest of America and show the country that we can heal.
When will these people wake up and realize that the Muslim religion IS NOT responsible for the 9/11 attacks? Do not use 9/11 as an excuse to promote discrimination and hatred. That's not the New York I know.
Freedom of religion is fundamental to America. We are a Democracy, all faiths are welcome here. That's what makes us great.
how could worshiping God – by whatever name- be such a bad thing?
let's keep sight that there are millions of american musilims.
are only christians and jews allowed to worship their God?
I am a christian. I love God, no matter whatever the name given Him!!!
dose the first amendment apply when kill everyone who dose nt go along with your religion ? If so maybe we should all move .
Wow, This a hard one. We are a country who prides ourselves on freedom of religion, But the History of muslims building on conquered sites is disturbing. Out of courtesy for the victims of 9-11, I Think there should be a barrier of 2 miles around the site just to avoid the appearance of a conquered site. C.J. Reding
There are haters in ALL religions. I thought our country was built on the ideal of freedom of religion. Many crimes have been committed in the name of Christianity, from the Crusades to the Ku Klux Klan's night rides of terror. We can't condemn an entire religion based on the horrible actions of a small segment of its followers. Should I hate all Baptists because Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church are wackos? Of course not!
It is a practice of the Muslim community to mark spots of jihad victories since Saladin. Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem is a good example. NY, NY should not be another 'victory' for a radical assault on our citizens.
I feel that, in this case, the sensitivity that New Yorkers (and all Americans) have to the presence of a Mosque on this hallowed ground trumps the rights of the religious group to locate there, despite their peaceful intentions. The Mosque should find another location out of respect for those whose lives were changed forever by the events of 9/11.
I am a native New Yorker, and am opposed to a mosque being built near Ground Zero. The simple fact is that Islamist extremists murdered thousands of people on September 11th. The recent attempted terrorist attacks were planned by Islamist extremists. If this is not an argument for profiling, I don't know what is. Build the mosque somewhere else, not near a burial ground that was created by extreme followers of Islam.
What is the difference between building a church and building a mosque? Religion is religion.
I don't think it is fair for the people who had a family member die on 9/11 if the government decides to build a mosque on ground zero; or least those people should have some sort of say on the position
The idea of building a mosque so near Ground Zero is disgraceful. When is America going to start upholding America's values and stand up for America? There are plenty of other locations in NYC for building the mosque. Please, please do not allow this to happen.
To disallow the building of a mosque near Ground Zero is an admission that the current conflict with Islamic extremism IS a war on Islam. Some of the victims that died on 9/11 were Muslim also, choosing to lump Muslims and terrorists in the same category is ignorant- plain and simple. I grew up black in Alabama but I don't think that every Protestant church is a recruitmet center for the Ku Klux Klan when clearly many were and are-still to this day. We, as a country, are letting recent lapses in internal US security cloud the fact that overwhelming majority of Muslims in America simply are tax-paying, law abiding citizens.
The same people who want to have one set of rights for Christians and Jews and another set of rights for christians are the ones who are un-american. These are the same people who believe in segregation of blacks and whites. The same people that fought and died for slavery in this country. These are the same people who "protested" Rosa Parks form sitting in the front seat of a bus. The same people that are volunteering to fight in Iraq when the problem was Al-Queda in AFGHANISTAN. The Same who support a muslim-only concentration camp in Gitmo. The same who believe that only muslims don't get the right to a trial These are the same people that see all muslims as an enemy and all muslims as the same. These people are racists and it is their all-white segregated churches that should be banned from this nation.
Hi Tony,
I firmly believe in religious freedom, but to build a mosque so close to ground zero would be adding insult to injury to all the people who lost there loved ones and whose lives were changed on 9/11. This would be perceived as a blatant slap in the face or an act of insensitivity to the many American whose live were changed on that day. I know this is a free country but with freedom comes responsibility. It is our responsibility when others are hurt by member of our family to show sensitivity and regard for their feeling. A mosque at ground zero would not be seen as muslim reaching out to Americans. It would be seen as the muslim world mocking and laughing at us. Freedom should not be exploited.
It's not about being "anti-Muslim", it's about being respectful. There are a thousand locations to build a mosque, is this really the best location? It doesn't feel very "healing" to me as a firefighter. It seems rather in-your-face. From a religion that demands respect, I would expect greater wisdom about why this is unwelcome. If you want me to respect you, respect me. I won't draw a picture of your prophet, and you don't build a mosque on one of the most sacred sites on US soil. I don't care what your true motivations are behind building at Ground Zero, show some class and respect. It's not about being right, it's about doing right. You want to promote healing? Show me you can do the right thing and build somewhere else.
God gave us all the right to choose how we worship, that being said, Building a masque near ground zero is disrespectful o the families who lost family members in 9/11. They can put it in another area if they feel the need to have it. If they are looking for respect , to be accepted then they should move it somewhere where it would not be a slap in the face of the people who live through that heart breaking day.
9/11 was not done by a religion, it was done by a group of people called extremists, you have hatred in their hearts. They can not be Muslims, because to be a Muslim you need to practice Islam. Islam meaning peace.. get it straight
Many people are against it for the wrong reason! It should NOT be allowed because the Muslim extremists (terrorists) would see this as a victory and empower them even more! It's as simple as that!
HI Tony;
Great show friend. This issue seems (maybe too) simple to me. Either you believe in our fundamental documents or you don't. Is there freedom of religion? Are ALL men(humans) created equal? Isn't one of the reasons New York City is considered "the greatest city in the world" , it's incredible cultural diversity?
Thanks,Jon
The same people who want to have one set of rights for Christians and Jews and another set of rights for Muslims are the ones who are un-american. These are the same people who believe in segregation of blacks and whites. The same people that fought and died for slavery in this country. These are the same people who "protested" Rosa Parks form sitting in the front seat of a bus. The same people that are volunteering to fight in Iraq when the problem was Al-Queda in AFGHANISTAN. The Same who support a muslim-only concentration camp in Gitmo. The same who believe that only muslims don't get the right to a trial These are the same people that see all muslims as an enemy and all muslims as the same. These people are racists and it is their all-white segregated churches that should be banned from this nation.
Tony I think this is a bad idea, considering the hatred all muslims have against american lifestyle and government policies. The mosque will definitely serve as a platform for criticizing anything American or western, so it will be an insult to those Americans who lost their lives in the 911 attacks.
I have studied religion for the past 4 years in one of the top university religion departments in the nation. In those years I learned one thing about Islam... the Islamic faith is peaceful; however, like in all religions, there are a few who have been mistaught or misunderstood the teachings of their faith. Sadly those who were responsible for 9/11 are NOT the majority of the Islamic teaching, and the rest of Muslims are lumped into that category when they were just as hurt by what people in their own faith did.
The U.S. was founded on the freedom to practice religion. If this mosque will preach peace and love, as much of Islam, does let them build and practice. If anything less that that happens, my heart will break because this fundamental element of the Constitution will be null and void and we have put people in a negative category when they do not belong there!
Don't believe me? Go, find a Muslim and enter an open conversation with them about what they believe and teach. Be honestly ready and open to what they have to say, do not attack them, just listen and ask honest questions to better understand their faith!!
Very simple: Give the US a license to build a Church in Mecca and they are welcome to build their Mosque near ground Zero....!
I want every Muslim to ask themselves that question, before debate this subject. "Will a church be allowed in Saudi?Thurkey, etc.................
It is extremely inappropriate and disrespectful to the families that lost loved ones on 9/11/01. Also, we are not showing that we are the "better man" by allowing the mosque to be built on ground zero and we are not gaining any political gain by doing this. As we have seen in news reports, Islamic extremists take pride in NOT turning the other cheek as Christians are supposed to do. Just as Jesus warned the Pharisees in his day, the Islamic extremists have no love for GOD. Their GODs are vengeance and lust.
Building a mosque near ground zero will be a great testament to the great America we live in and a major blow to radicals around the world.
Ashraf
Boston, MA
I couldn't care less about where a mosque is built. As far as I'm concerned, it was not a religion which attacked the Twin Towers, it was people, idiots in fact, who had grossly mis-interpreted the intent of their religion. This is a free country & that freedom applies to all Americans. If we start discriminating on the basis of religious beliefs, I will be in deep dodo because I'm an atheist.
Building a Mosque within 5 miles of the 9/11 site is offensive on so many levels. It's disrespectful to all those people who went through that horror, not to mention how wrong it is to build anything Muslim near a site where so many Americans dies by the hands of Muslims.
The Muslims who are wanting build the Mosque say they are peace loving Americans.... then respect the fact that building the Mosque so close to ground zero is offensive and disrespectful! We are still fighting that war, it's just to fresh for that.
Dear Tony,
We saw your show this morning and our comment is if they build a mosque near the site of the wold trade towers, I would find it offensive.
I hope we do not let them destroy America, as they have France and England. We travel extensively and can see the problems they have caused. We need to confront the people that come to America and want to change our county.
Thank You
Mrs Fran Ciraolo
San Diego,ca.
Hey "Larry Herzog Butler" Understanding and Tolerance is just what protects our borders from terrorists.
Understanding and Tolerance is what allows you to lay your head on a pillow at night after watching the tonight show and dream of sugar plums and fairies.
I'll tell you what..........We'll contact the Secretary of Defense and have a talk with him about Understanding and Tolerance and maybe next time an officer from Homeland Security or a U.S. Soldier encounters a terrorist or immigrant trying to cross the border or worse yet has citizenship in this great USA and plans to bomb a building .....we'll just use Understanding and Tolerance and have talk with him and tell him we love him and he should'nt do such terrible things. IDIOT !!!!!!!!!!
"peace loving moslems" as said by one in your program this morning, would not need to build a moaque on ground zero. they can build it anywhere and demonstrate their peace loving attitude. such an structure on ground zero would make a very good tool for the terrorists to recruit members by using this as a miracle of their doing. they will say: "we toppled certers of evil and mosque was built in its place".
Saying they shouldn't build a mosque close to ground zero is like saying you shouldn't build a church in downtown Oklahoma city. Every religion has its share of closed minded believers, and we shouldn't judge that religion because of them.
If this is allowed to happen it will be thousands of times that the muslims have done an injustice to our country. I am not profiling all muslims because I know many that are upstanding American citizens.
However I do not feel that it is appropriate to allow a mosque to to fill the space where many of American's died at the hands muslim terrorists.
Is this the reason the victims of 9-11 gave there lives for! not to mention the fire fighters and rescue workers. Why would anyone in there right mind want to build a Muslim temple at ground zero! What has this country come too? This would not be taking place in the past united states of America our forefather's had a back bone. What's next building a Japanese temple in the middle of pearl harbor. (So I say NO WAY)
It truly saddens me that there are so many helplessly ignorant people commenting on this story. You people do realize that Islam is a peaceful religion, not a crazy terror organization, right? Sure, there are a lot of awful people who call themselves Muslims, but they can't really be true followers of Islam. Would you call Adolf Hitler (and thank you Omar for bring up this excellent point) a true Christian?
I support the idea of world peace, but I think an action like this will not help, and could possibly tighten the tension even more.
By building this, we are diminishing the historical importance of ground zero. Children passing by on school tours will be more interested in seeing a mosque rather than ground zero. The next generations need to understand 9/11’s importance, all the lives lost, and all the people impacted.
The mosque can easily be built somewhere else, just not as near ground zero. That way, it can appeal to both the Islamic people who want this built and the families affected by 9/11 who are sensitive about it and strongly protest against its construction near ground zero.
NO! its not right to build this mosque, and naming it after one of the caliphates and its to open on the anniversary of 911! This religon is a joke. Why not ask the muslims why a christian church or catholic church can not be built in some of the muslim areas?
How I hate to write this, but I believe they have a right to build a mosque at this location as long as they are not breaking the law. Now that hurts! A bummer!
Just heard on CNN that 2 New Jersey men have been arrested on terrorism charge for trying to join the jihad to kill Americans. Now there's a good argument against the new mosque. They dont want terrorists laughing inthe face of Americans right across the street from where they killed 3k people.
The news of this mosque being built is extremely sickening but not surprising. It's just another example of Muslim extremists taking advantage of the ultra liberal society that the United States has become. Everyone is so afraid of being labeled a bigot that we shy away from anything controversial that has to do with Islam. Let's not forget that this faith (Islam) has been manipulated into a convenient premise for anti Semitism and anti Christian beliefs and it's ultimate goal is to conquer the world and to destroy the Jews and Christians. Muslims have been quoted as saying this time and time again and are not hiding the fact. Jsut refference any speech by Irans president over the past 5 years. Regardless of whether or not all muslims believe this way, if it came to all out war, the "non-extrmeists" would not take the side of the Jews or the Christians. They would side with their fellow Muslims. Why is it acceptable now to openly hate the Jews? It wasn't acceptable with Hilter and the Nazis so why do we tolerate anti semitism when it comes to Mulims? Remember, it was the United States that was attcked on 9/11 so why should we have any remorse or compassion for Muslim beliefs when they constantly offend the Jews. They are a stagnant faith living in the 7th century. If Chirstians or Jews were planning to build a synagogue or church on the site of a bombing in a Islamic country it would be destroyed and all of those involved murdered. It's intolerable how we as a nation have lost our backbone and sense of nationalism. We are so afraid to offend anyone and we are being exploited by people who don't care to offend anyone. It's really sad and I feel that the worst is yet to come.
I think it's ignorant for people to object to a community center that contains a mosque. America was a country built on religious freedom. We can't infringe on other's freedoms because of what a few people did. I'm sure no one would object to building a church anywhere where a Christian may have murdered someone.
It is outrageous and an assault on our psyche for anyone to conceive of building a mosque near the ground zero where hundreds of innocent souls were sent to their untimely graves by members of the same religious group that now wants to put up a worship place near the site of the carnage. All peace-loving people of America (not New Yorkers alone) should rise up against this nefarious plan. Government should revoke or refuse approval of the building.
Ignorance truly is a terrible thing to content with. If the goal of the protest organizer is to "stop the Islamization of America", why stop at going against building a mosque?
A few more ideas for her and others jumping on that bandwagon:
1) Ban all mosques in the U.S.
2) Since ground zero is now "sacred", no muslim may walk past or fly over to location
3) Issue badges to all muslims in the united states (the crescent sounds like an appropriate symbol that Muslims like).
4) Burn all Qur'an texts. That book causes too many problems. Really, with so many versions of the bible to choose from, everyone should be able to find a version that best outlines their religious values.
If you think what I suggest is ridiculous, you have no idea how easy it is for man to move from what sounds like simple "protests" to full- blown hate propaganda.
Read up on history and learn.
We should welcome it. Let them build it. It's none of our business as to what a churches and temples other people build. Shame on these racist protesters we're putting on the news.
I am sure that all Muslims are not terrorists. However, the plan to build a mosque near the WTC site is idiotic. It will NOT "heal" the wounds of a nation terrorized by Muslims. Whoever came up with this idea needs to rethink it.
Two simple ideas:
1) There are Muslims then there are fundamentalists. Stereotyping individuals based on religion should be a far gone activity in todays world.
2) Religious Freedom
When the world sees America debating issues of religious freedoms, rights to healthcare, and gay rights, they see the hypocrisy in a nation that is suppose to lead the world in rights and freedoms.
To those of you who say it shows weakness, peace and unity comes only from tearing walls down, not building them.
I think the sight and surrounding area should only be used as a memorial to Peace. Panned without over-bearing religious, commercial, or governmental influences. It should be grounds for all to remember a great loss. But also a place for all to reflect on ending violence for a brighter tomorrow.
This mosque has actually existed as a place of Muslim worship for six months, so to begin the controversy now is a little bit too late. In fact, the mosque is about two blocks away from Ground Zero. Now, if the mosque was being built on the exact site, I could see why that would cause some hurt feelings and some cries of disrespect, which in reality, it would. But it's not.
Also, these people who nay-say the mosque need to realize that no matter their feelings on the matter, we have something in this country known as the first amendment. "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." By telling the Muslim people where they can and can't worship, you are directly violating this constitutional amendment, the very foundation of this country.
There is really nothing 'insensitive' about what is being done, and the more I look at the situation, the more that I realize this. The mosque is being built extremely far away, and this seems more like the leaders of the faith asking for some form of amnesty from the unfounded, brutal attacks from our people. It's like the rest of their faith is showing their support by building a place of worship.
And while I'm at it, I would also like to address the protesters and extreme fringe that are against the mosque, those who almost seem militant in their ignorance. By stating that you hate all Muslims, or that all Muslims are terrorists, you are utilizing a stereotype and a hatred that hasn't seen it's day since the crusades. The men who carried out the 9/11 attacks held Islam as their banner. This was a warped, twisted version of the religion, and does not represent the whole. Your logic of saying that all Islamic people are bad is like sayting that all Christians are bad because the Westboro Baptists Church protested at the funeral of one of your loved ones. You need to take a step back, and seperate the crazies from those who follow true Islam, and stop being so closed minded.
Im all for equal treatment for every american , consider myself liberal , however I don't want them to build a mosque that close to that sacred site . Our enemies would see this as a victory over us . Put it somewhere else .
H Smith
IDEALY it would be a good idea, if the mosque held an information center, or museum that focused on global Islam in the face of Islamic radicalism. But, let's be honest, it's going to be the target of anti-Islamic sentiment & the safety & comfort of the worshippers is a priority.
Putting a mosque in that location is rubbing salt in a very painful wound and is totally inappropriate and offensive. This should be a spot for healing, not divisiveness. Americans need to wise up – when we can freely establish a church or synagogue in Muslim countries, then we should consider the possibility, but not before then.
YES!!! I agree with Bob. I think a 9/11 memorial site at or near Mecca would really prove a point.
All this talk about the Mosque near "ground zero" and it's relationship to terroists. If the terrorist thing is truely the issue then most buildings, landmarks and cities in this country should be changed and or taken down. For example; the J. Edger Hoover building as Hoover was a true terroist to black people and to this country. How about the nathan bedford forest statue in Memphis, TN. Isnt there a building named after George Wallace in Alabama? The list goes on and on. I guess the definiton of terroist is subjective.?
Let me ask this question. Would it be proper to build a Mosque in Auschwitz or Treblinka? Would you want to place a Atomic Energy Commission Info booth at Hiroshima? Would it be proper to put an advertisement for Mitsubishi on the Arizona Battleship Memorial?
I live fewer than two miles from the WTC and interact with Muslim people all the time. They are a part of our community and should not be persecuted because of radicals on the fringe. If we'd stopped building Christian churches because of Klan bombings then maybe denial of their building would be logical, but we didn't. This is America, just let the pot melt.
What better way to show the world how diverse We Americans really are. This is the free land of liberty. If they own the land they should be able to build what they want there. Also, the Mosque is about Islam. Islam did not attack America. Those that attacked America did NOT represent Islam or Muslims. They represented themselves and their own understanding of hislam,
I find it hard to believe that the we as Americans are overlooking the 1st amendment to the Constitution. There seems to be a prevalent fear concerning the practice of Islam itself. Let us not forget, fear and ignorance is what started the Holocaust.
Hide behind the first amendment , the constatution has been changed so much the people who wrote it would nt know it if they saw it and could not have had the fore site to know of this world we live in today . peolpe are saying look at the crusades how many people died in the name of cathiolic church well thats an excelent point and we should history repeats , well this plain will have us all in bedsheets . i dont care about there god . dont wanna know about ther god want them all to go home and prey to that god as we blow them to hell were them and there god belong i dont like seeing them in my store looking like they are going to rob the place face all coverd up guns under that sheet who knows. genicide in this case would be good ,put a 9/11 momorial in mecca and see the peace loveing people in action they are right we are weak soft and they will have us because of our own laws. we should just go on and buy them the next plane ticket to get here and finish us its clear we have give n up
If the argument against the mosque is on the basis of religion, not all 9/11 victims were Jewish; if on the basis of nationality, not all were Americans; if on the basis of region, not all were New Yorkers, of on the basis of some form of causality, not all Muslims were 9/11 participants.
So, in the event a Catholic Church was intended to be built "near" the ground zero site, opposition to it would not likely be due to the fact that some priests or other clergy molested some school children.
It is a sad thing to hear someone categorically deny something while absolving their own religion's historical atrocities, as amply described in the Old Testament.
Open one's mind, open one's heart, and one's conscience might be cleansed.
Re: Mosque
It's either the biggest act of forgiveness or the biggest insult to the people of New York.
How much space in all of our heads are we letting Hate rent ?
10% 20% 50% 100%
The population of the USA is 307,006,000;
the USA military personnel is 1,400.000;
Military percentage of total is 0.0045 percent;
Clearly a minority
Should we then conclude that the minority is not representative of the whole USA population.
That's the way Muslims calculate the terrorists compared to the total Muslims of Islam and then claim the minority do not represent the majority.
I call that Taqiyya Hogwash.
The population of Muslims worldwide is about 1.7 Billion, while 0.006% is estimated to be radical terrorists who don't speak for the majority. But 1.7 B X 0.006% = about 10 million about 7 times more than the USA military.
Why is it in the present day that religious bigotry seems to be one mindset that is tolerated and almost approved of, especially when it comes to anything related to the September 11th attacks? I was shocked when listening to multiple email comments this morning which were all opposed to a mosque 2 blocks from ground zero. I thought this country was founded on religious freedom and opposed to the mindset that only certain religions are acceptable. If anything I think we should make the point of declaring our religious freedom and acceptance by including a Muslim place of worship in the very site where those would would deny others faith tried to strike us.
Even entertaining the thought of putting a mosque/center of that magnitude at that particular site is an outrage and an insult to all Americans. It is plain insensitive.
Furthermore let's be clear about one thing. This is not going to be just a place for prayer but a center which will inevitably attract potential angry people with an axe to grind. These people could be endoctrinated into anti western way of thinking. This will also provide them with a place to organize themselves for such rallies.
Not to mention promoting the subordination of women – physically, intellectually, socially and emotionally.
Tony,
I'm on the fence with this because as long as the US is fighthing abroad and "killing their fellow brethern" as it is often put, some muslims may continue to become radicalized. If this mosque could potentially breed radical muslims, then let it be built somewhere else.
Otherwise, if there is guarantee that there will be no radicalization, then I'm fine with it.
Very poor taste to do that, it shows no compassion for the victims' families. I understand wanting people to understand that all Muslims did not attack the trade center, but they must be sensitive to the "raw" wounds that still exist and that is not the appropriate location.
After reading some of these comments I feel America is is home to a surprising number bigots. The ignorance I am reading here is unbelievable. Calling Muslims non-peaceful, reality check, watch Jesus Camp, tell me that Christians are peaceful too. You will see that all religions have their dark spots. Look throughout history, Christian have done worse, if this is becoming an issue of a religions actions and history then perhaps none should have a place of worship on Manhattan Island? The worlds great religions all have offences but we try to grow past the mistakes of a few radicals that mar the image of each respected religion.
Please do America a favor and stop enforcing the 'ignorant American stereotype'.
so now that you have us all upset how do we stop it
I've read in several posts, saying it was just a few and just a handful.. Let's understand we are at war in Iraq and Afghanistan with Muslims.. Yeah they are called the radical...A large segment are radicals.. They number in the hundreds of thousands if not millions.. It's more than a handful. The schools teach the kids to hate Americans, they are infidels.. This is the norm not the exception… They are Muslims first American second.. That the problem with building the Mosque at that location..
HI Tony !!!
Historically Muslims build thir mosques as a sign of victory
check Islam in India and middle east .
The gentleman who spoke about the many Muslims in the US of A who are peaceful and productive members of American society dodges an important point.
Where are the Muslim clerics who are brave enough to loudly and publicly criticize their terrorist brothers who enslave women, make war on innocent civilians, and pay no attention to rights of people of other religious persuasions including those who abide by no religion at all?
Are the moderate clerics who might make a difference afraid any speech will result in violent attacks like those aimed at folks who make graven images of Mohammed? If so, perhaps it's the Muslim faith itself that should be blamed and there is no room for a mosque near ground zero.
But then I have many Muslim friends who are fine folks who don't mind my non-religious self. Give them their place to pray.
In truth there should be no issue with this. However, lets think about this first. This will create all sorts of animosity in the city. It will possibly influence acts of violence. Is there a real reason to put a mosque close to ground zero? The only one I can think of is to shove it in our faces. We blew up your buildings then we built a mosque on its site. Perhaps it should be put off for a while.
The so called extremist Muslims will hijack, cajole,threaten the "peace" loving Muslems of this new Mosque into doing there bidding! The peace loving Muslims have never stood up with "one voice" & denounced 9/11 properly in most American eyes. America wake up! You are in a (new) type of war. Our on Constitution is being used against us by the enemy, just like our own planes were used against The Twin Towers. We must be vigilant as well as stedfast against a wily enemy who actually is satan himself. Who came into the garden "More subtually" and decieved Eve into eating the fruit! We cannot buy these lies of a religion that is seeking to rob us of the blessing God gave us through our freedom(s). We must not submit to submission to a lie! Allah is not the God of the Universe, Jehovah is!
The bigoted rhetoric is amazing. Have you forgotten that Muslims died that day, as well? Or that the Old Testament contains numerous passages the incite violence?
Tell you what... you expunge the Bible, *then tell Muslims to expunge their book. To do otherwise only shows your prejudice and hypocrisy.
The hijackers were radical extremists using their religion as an excuse to attack the US. Nowhere in the Koran does it call for terrorism. It is unfair to link a religion to a terrorism attack because the attackers were of that religion. We should first look into who will be running the mosque and rather or not they have anti-american sentiments and/or are terrorist supporters before we make a judgment as to what their new mosque will mean
This will only matter to biggots, and unfurtunately, they often scream the loudest. Timothy McVeigh was a christian... should we rase all churches near the Oklahoma Federal Building site?
Grow up and be a "true American".
I don't like this "in your face" attitude.A mosque being built
any place near ground zero is an affront to the American people. They want to build a mosque?. Choose one of hundreds of sites besides ground zero. This would be one step closer toward fulfilling the promise to plant the Islamic flag at the
Whitehouse.
All of the stories I have read about this proposal are very vague about where this Islamic community center is going to be. The only information I have found is that it is in Lower Manhattan somewhere.
To not allow the mosque to be constructed is a violation of our Constitution. Period. The United States is based on ideas of fundamental freedoms. These freedoms are not just for European-descended Christians; they are for everyone. This is exactly what distinguishes us from the radical Islamists we are fighting. We allow different ideologies and faiths, even if we do not share them.
These extremists believe they are in a Holy War, and many Americans, unfortunately, seem to be participating in the religious hatred.
On the first place CNN should not shoot this type of question. Because the clauses used in the question are likely to relate 'a mosque' to 'Islamic Jihadists'.
If the mosque is being built by some of the jihadist, that must not be anywhere in USA, late alone on Ground Zero.
But if it's by the anti-terrorist Muslims, then there should not be any problem- constitutionally, legally or logically.
Urghhh so typical of our media. They've just thrown a cat amongst the pigeons.You cannot blame all Muslims for the cruel and barbaric acts of a select few who have no understanding of their religion.I emphasize...Islam IS a religion of peace.If you do not believe me then go and do some research on it and talk to someone who knows.9/11 was the saddest day in recent American history and my heart goes out to the families of the people who perished in those attacks...however many Muslims died in it too.I think ground zero should be surrounded by mosques, churches and synagogues just to prove to the select few terror mongers that America is a free,tolerant and peace loving nation.
tony why dont they just build it from the bones of there victoms from 9/11 .tony we could give them a permit to build it in the gulf and that way they can have there church and we can plug up that hole.
people who bring up our constatution might keep in mind the men who drafted it all owend slaves they all thought that was a good idea to . all our rights that were taken away that day in sept. we use to come and go as we pleased no stripping just to get on a plane , the government changes the constation all the time so please save the first and second ammendment crap stand up for your self oh sorry if im not polliticaly correct bunch of bleeding harts well bleed for us not for there rights cry for our dead not theres
Ahh the good ol' U.S. of A., where we take pride in our religious freedom, as long as you're Christian, and preferably a born-again evangelical.
I feel sorrey that such hate is encouraged against a divine religion. Islam for who wants to learn about it never carried racial, violant, nor supremacy notions as seen and documented in many other religions. If you review many sections in the Jewish books, you will appreciate what I'm saying. Eventhough, we as muslims, are required by religion to believe in all God's messages in all Divine religions, we also believe that those books were modified by their followers across the time.
The perpetrators of the horrible 9/11 attacks may have been muslims. However I believe it's rather racist or for the least simplistic to smir the religion with the act of a handful of people.
Does Ed McViegh of Oklahoma being a Christian present the religion.
This particular controversy truly enrages me, Americans are waste deep it a religious war that has been going strong for more generations than I would like to count. It is a truly unfortunate situation however there is little to nothing the average man or women can do to stop this. I am an atheist, who wants nothing to do with this trivial battle between western beliefs and those of the Muslim world. However as an American who loves his country I do not want to see nyc constructing a building which will stand as a slap in the face for all those who lost there life in or as a result of the September 11th attacks. As a county we need to wake up! Our problems with the hate the the Muslim world preaches will only grow? So why as a county do we allow them to use us, for shelter and knowlege? Our so called good un bias nature will only lead to further grief and despair.
Why a mosque? Everyone says not Islamist are radical and this may be true but very few like 1 parts per billion will speak out on that regard. The protest in chicago organized by an Islamic group that actually wants to promote and ultimately achieve peace with Israel & the US didn't get more than twenty people and most of them were related. They probaly will become very irrelevant as well because they can't compete for membership with the big Islamic foundation in D.C. Hey put a big mosque on Penn Ave. Because why not. Or whats the point.
I haven't posted before but I was compelled into action by this topic. I'd also add ( while I don't think it should matter) I am a Chistian and serve in the Armed Forces.
I've read most of the comments posted here and have to say that I think most people have completely missed the whole point of this entire discussion. It seems that a discussion has (yet again) degenerated into an argument. On the one hand, some belive that we should not build a mosque near Ground Zero because it is a sacred site and it would dishonor the victims. And on the other , we must build a mosque because it would be a symbol of tolerance for our people. I think this is a false choice. I think the real issue here should be a test of the tolerance of all Americans.
In my opinion, the way to deal with that would be to build a chapel (a building for multiple faiths similar to what is done in the military) or a community center for cultural interchage instead of a mosque. I'd support a chapel mainly because religion is one of the bed rocks of civilization, for better or for worse. It would better signify our commonality to have a single building with a different schedule for multiple faiths instead of giving a single faith the venue. I support a community center for cultural exchanges between people from predominantly Muslim countries or Muslim Americans and secular, atheist, and/or other non-Muslims (judging by some of the posts I've read here) obviously need to talk. It was after all the "World" Trade Center and New York is the "Capital of the World". Also, a learning annex for cultural interchange would be beneficial for all Americans, regardless of faith.
I propose these ideas because we should not forget that one of the key tragedies of 9/11 was a lack of dialogue and miscommunication (ironic in an Information Age). There was not enough dialogue in the intelligence community ,so, our civil servants didn't see the tragedy coming in time. There was little dialogue between our country and many majority-Muslim country's on a fundamental basis. This has led to alot of needless hostility. Granted, general American ignorance and apathy about the Middle East prior to 9/11 is no excuse for 3000+ dead. But, the fact that our attackers were was Muslim does not give us carte blanche to dismiss all things Islamic.
In conclusion, I'd say that Muslims are our neighbors and fellow citizens. We should give them a hearing but not let them be the only one talking. Concluding that the way to solve this situation was by building a mosque shows that there was a lack of community involvement. Americans should know that a solid community is founded on group input as opposed to any singular visions.
It must be nice to be able to live in the US and still hold a place in one of the largest worldwide communities for instance being Muslim. you can live here and not have to really leave your homelands behind. so different from the many immigrants of our recent history. The immigrants of the late 19th century and after WW2 didn't generally go back to to whever they were from in Europe and didn't want to there was nothing for them. I speak not only of eastern europeans or jews. this goes for the swedish, russians, polish, italians and so on. Sure they had their traditions but found common ground based on their lives here and common experiences here not from where they came.
What most people in the west refuse to see and understand is that there are 2 kinds of Muslims. One kind is the strong ones. They are the ones hiding in caves in Afghanistan and the slums of Iraq,Yemen, Somalia etc. If they should ever be victiorious to any degree the weak Muslims would pick up an AK 47 and stand in line to behead the rest of us evil nonbelievers. Our choice is simple. Stick our heads in the sand until it is to late or acknowledge what and who Islam really is ...another form of Nazism. There is no difference between the Supreme leader in Iran and Hitler.
So if a mosque is built it is to be two blocks from ground zero.How big is a block in NYC?. Is there a connection to ground zero specifically and how far away is the nearest mosque from there?
It is outrageous and an assault on our psyche for anyone to conceive of building a mosque near the ground zero where hundreds of innocent souls were sent to their untimely graves by members of the same religious group that now wants to put up a worship place near the site of the carnage. All peace-loving people of America (not New Yorkers alone) should rise up against this nefarious plan. Government should revoke or refuse approval of the building.
A Mosque should not be built near the trade center site. What a slap in the face that would be. Can't believe it was approved by a certain council of anti-Americans that need to be escorted right out of this country. How stupid can we be. New York already has 200 to many Mosque in and around New York. A lot of which I'm sure have sleeper cell terrorist in them. Wouldn't be a bit surprised. Us Americans are going to keep on being lenient and way to tolerant and before you know it we will be hit again HARD by these so called people.
Why build a place of worship to begin with ? What is the objective ? Why not a memorial for all those people who fought valiantly against acts of terror ..
If a place of worship is really required if america is having a crisis of faith .. Build some thing for all faiths ..
Not all muslims are terrorists, but all the terrorists are muslims . Their quran order them to kill& lie. The base of the islamic religion is " JIHAD" which means kill others to defend the profit.They want to declaire the islamic kingdom in the place of their victory againest the cheristians who are unbeleivers.The world will see then what if Hitler won the battle.
Shame on you officials of NY.
GOD KEEP AERICA SAFE
Let's ask the american citizens. 'Can we build a church instead?' If it is a positive answer, why not give the same answer to building a mosque? I thought it's a free country, without discrimination.
Why all the Fuss over Helen, we still live in a Free Country... I am tired of labels. If Jews can openly talk about other Races and refer to them as Goyim, or Gentiles Gods other Children.. Then we should be able to openly discuss their Faults and Mis Treatment of Others without being labeled Anti Semitic especially when Arabs are also Semites! Our Politicians are purchased and then silenced by Aipac, Bnai B and the ADL.. the same way they are Purchased by Big Oil and the Centralize Global Banking Elite... Helen should be able to speak freely in a Free land without being harassed for speaking her mind!
Who cares build your Mosque,9-11 was an inside job...
Absolutely against!
Do they allow Churches to be built in Saudi Arabia or freely in Middle East? No! So, why would they build Mosques here.
No! Unless Christianity is not prosecuted in Middle East! Wake up, all the World, read the Prophecy.
its inappropriate..its like the victor stumping its foot over its victim..have sense of humanity please..of all the places..why build mosque there in Ground Zero..its an insult to the victim and there love ones seeing the mosque where their love ones fell..and as if they are building a monument for those attackers of freedom right in the heart of democracy
This is terrible. I am extremly upset by this. This is a huge insult to all of america. What were the attacks for, to make for this stupid mosque. These grounds should be used for a memorial not some freaking mosque. I couldn't be an more angry.
Please NO...Seeing this from outside (Puerto Rico) I think this is mockery for the victims of 911. I know there are muslims who are not radicalism but please go to another place to construct it.
I agree with most of the people commenting. Building this mosque near ground zero is like rubbing salt in a wound, and it is insulting. It needs to go somewhere else.
Divide and conquer. By alienating Americans who happen to be Muslim, the rest of the nation loses an important ally in our nation's fight for liberty. I can understand why people would be offended by a mosque so close to sacred American ground; it is a touchy issue for ALL Americans. However, our nation is already radically divided on how this country should be properly run: let's not add religious division to the mix. American Muslims involved in the building of the mosque might consider building a memorial alongside it as a way to ease tension and reenforce the message that this building is NOT a sign of "victory," but an effort to reach out to fellow Americans and show the world that America is a country that protects the natural rights of ALL its citizens.
If all things are in the eye of the beholder then where does freedom stand? or Where does freedom begin? or Where does freedom end? Is there is any standard when it comes to "Freedom" or in the name of "Freedom"?... then....Are we allow to recycle?
Thanks.
Maribel Barquie
Massachusetts
Whatever happened to freedom of religion. Muslims that worked inside the Twin Towers died also.
When your in Hawaii you will see many Japanese tourists visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, should they be banned from visiting this sacred site?
It is absolutely absurd to even think about allowing a mosque to be built near the Trade Center site. The only purpose of the muslims in doing this is to say, "remember what we did to America" and promote their "religion" which has the same beliefs for American muslims and those who are not Americans. Their ultimate purpose is to destroy America, and Israel and to take over the world. Anyone who can't see this has his head stuck in the sand. Anyone who is so dead-set against America and what America stands for and the principles upon which it was built, needs to find them another country to live in and get on out!
There are people here who seem to think FREEDOM is free. It is not! People were killed by students of Islam, trained in a doctrine of war and hate. To dishonor the memory of those who died in the tower would be a disgrace. This mosque must not be allowed to exist near ground zero. Freedom is not free, and those muslims who want to be free need to begin payng for that freedom by denouncing and disclaiming the war like and hatred teachings associated with islam.
Look guys, Muslims have the right to build thier Mosque, but please, the place that they are planning to, i believed in my opinion is not condusive to them. Please respect the spirit of those innocent people died in that place. Christian or Muslims, please relax and think it over.....again and again. Im not againts to any religion but what matters is.......RESPECT. That's what we need. Thanks
All my life I strive to eliminate prejudices from my thinking, but the idea of putting a mosque near Ground Zero just crosses all lines of thougtfulness and common sense and tolerance to all people (including victim's families) and safety and the reality of human feelings. While I strongly do NOT blame the Muslim religion for 911, I just as strongly feel that putting a mosque there is a horrible idea.
We are at war with Al-Qaeda and the Taliban. We are not at war with Muslims and the Islamic religion. Quit confusing the facts & violating American Muslims' constitutional rights.
My first gut reaction was "no way!" but I really had to think about the entire situation. I do know it's a few blocks away, and not right next door to the site. I know that the people who are building it want to make it multi-cultural/religious with community services within. I think, still, that the community MUST listen to those who lost people in the attacks. I don't really know what the answer is, but I think it's not as much as an assault as I first thought it was. I think it may help with healing and maybe quell people's fears that all Muslims must be bad. This is a tough situation for sure!
And maybe it should be built by illegal imigrants. Boy what a slap in the face that would be to all the people who died that day at Ground Zero. . Why doesn't our government do something smart for a change and erect something to memorialize those who died that day and those have who died since to preserve this hallowed ground. Who are they trying to impress, someone whose only goal in life, is to destroy our Democracy and our freedom that so many have fought and died for. All our fallen veterans would turn over in their graves if were to do something like that.
Read the Islamic history , it way always the same taking over others properties
All this is is pandering to America's latent paranoia, bigotry and hate mongering. Would the patriots be crapping their drawers over a cathedral, a synagogue, mormon tabernacle, Quaker meeting house, Hindu Temple or any other place of worship ? I doubt it.
I don't see the need for American Muslims to be guilty by association, Most Muslims are good people and by keeping them from building a Mosque, in a way we are letting the terrorists win. The muslims here were just as affected by 9/11 as anyone else and this Mosque would be the perfect symbol of unity, to prove that we are all equal and we are above the hatred that we see in the middle east. I understand how dramatic 9/11 was to many families but there is no reason to take that out on innocent muslims who just want to practice their faith, a faith that does not even represent terrorists like Al-Qaeda by the way. As Amecrians, we are better than this.
What if there was a mosque in that area before 9/11, would the City have it demolished? I understand there is a lot of emotion behind ground zero and that definitely needs to be respected. However, emotion is a subjective thing and sometimes it's an arbitrary thing. Who decides when something is too close to something else? When does a person's emotional attachment to an event give them the right to oppresss someone else's rights? Some interrupt the mosque as a symbol for terrorism while muslims look at it as a symbol of peace. Whose interpretation matters more?
Now this here is breaking my heart. You guys going around and spreading hate about Islam or Christianity or whatever. Religion is not meant to divide humanity, it's meant to unite people under one supreme God. Religion nowadays is dividing people because the PEOPLE are setting these divisions. You have ministers going around telling their congregations not to trust other religions, to shun them, and in some cases, disrespect them. I got news for you.....Jesus never turned anyone away. Jesus taught us to be understanding and to love one another as brother and sister, no matter where we come from or what we call ourselves.
These Islamic fundamentalists clearly take Prophet Mohammed's message and manipulate it in such a way to suit their own selfish, murderous means (similar to how the Church did the same with Christian scripture during the Inquisition). To understand the Qu'ran, one must understand the times in which Islam came about. Culture and tradition in 7th century Arabia were completely different in that time than it is now. Mohammed brought His message to Arabia when the vast majority of the population were divided into clans/tribes, and each of them worshiping different gods. And they were still killing each other at the bidding of those deities. While Mohammed speaks of fighting for one's faith, He also mentions what a lot of people seem to miss while reading the Qu'ran. That forgiveness in any case is better.
But the whole concept of a "holy war" or "jihad" in today's society just doesn't work like it did back in those days. That's like saying the Crusades can be brought back each time the Vatican feels the Holy Land is in danger, or that the Inquisition should be re-instated in order to get more people converting to Catholicism. These concepts are just part of their history and should be learned from, not re-enacted. It is through reading, soul-searching, and thirst for truth that one truly learns and relates to religion and spirituality. Not through force.
To answer the question of whether or not a mosque should be built near ground zero. I would say no. Not because I have something against building another mosque. It's because they should build memorial sites (like gardens, monuments etc.) around the area, instead of trying to industrialize it again.
In the Name of Allaah, and the Praise is for Allaah and the Grace of Allaah and His Peace be upon the Messenger of Allaah.
Since the twin towers actually had at least one Muslim place of prayer and more than one Muslim in them when they were destroyed, the existence of a Masjid (Mosque) nearby is entirely appropriate.
We also fight against terrorism and terrorists, including me personally.
If the IDF attacked America would you want to hurt every Jew or forbid Synagogues, if some extremist Christian right member attacked America would you fight the erection of a Church, yet when criminals who have allegiance with an international criminal organization with methodology provably not from it claim Islam as their cause, you want to stop Muslims from worshiping Allaah, my Lord and your Lord, in a Mosque.
It is the lack of correct knowledge and belief that leads to people being misled into extremism and criminally violent ideas.
The scholars of the Salaf educate the masses to live correctly as opposed to extremist terms.