The nation is still coming to terms with the issue of a proposed mosque in lower Manhattan near the site of the world trade towers collapse following the terrorist attack of “911″ by Islamic terrorists. Critics allege that the proposed mosque will be a “victory mosque.” Defenders tend to minimize the proximity of the mosque to the former world trade towers.
At the White House “iftar,” celebrating the commencement of Ramadan, President Obama said “But let me be clear, as a citizen, and as president, I believe that Muslims have the same right to practice their religion as everyone else in this country. And that includes the right to build a place of worship and a community center on private property in Lower Manhattan, in accordance with local laws and ordinances. This is America.”
Despite the tragedy of 911, Obama’s comments sum up the issue as one of individual rights and responsibilities in relation to local laws and ordinances. But, is it wise to build a mosque so near the 911 site? Well this is another question. Withdrawal of the project will rest mainly on appeal to the builders whom, I believe, would demonstrate both wisdom and discretion in carefully considering the unsurprising level of public disapproval of the project.
This issue is such a strawman.
The area in which they propose to build the mosque is blocks away from the 9/11 site–miles in NYC terms. It’s an unassuming little hole-in-the-wall of a building. You wouldn’t even blink if you saw it.
To NYers, this is a complete non-issue. Hell, putting a Mosque in that neighborhood is gentrifying!