The Empire Page

While a number of better locations could have been chosen, for the site of the Park51 Mosque and Islamic Community Center, now that this site was chosen and went through community review, I believe it should be built for the following reasons.

1) It was Approved by the Local Community Board: Much noise has been made about site for Park51, which is very close to Ground Zero. While I empathize with those who lost loved ones during the terrorist attacks and understand their sensitivity, what should not be underestimated is that the proposal was approved by the local Community Board, made up of neighbors that live near the site. Many of them were in the neighborhood during the attacks and had to live with aftermath for months and years later. They had to evacuate their homes and many lost family members and neighbors. If this Community Board can approve Park51 then its wishes must also be respected.

2) Support Pro-American Muslims: By all accounts, the people sponsoring Park51 are Muslims that have integrated themselves into our society. They are moderates and pro-American. In fact, the Imam for the proposed Mosque is currently on a State Department-sponsored tour of  the Middle East to promote pro-American views of Islam.  It is precisely these types of Muslims that must be encouraged to practice their faith freely and become the face of Islam in America. If we choose to alienate, these Moderate Muslims then their radical brethren will use this as a recruiting tool to stir up hatred of America.

3) It’s More Than Just a Mosque: Park51 will be both a Mosque and Community Center, similar to many of the Jewish Community Centers (JCCs) that populate our towns and are positive community forces. In fact, published reports say that Jews involved in JCC work were consulted by the sponsors of Park51. Many sports, arts and educational activities not associated with religion will take place there. Hopefully, as JCCs are, the Park51 Community Center will be open to people of all faiths allowing for better ethnic and religious understanding.

4) Location: While I cannot pretend to understand the feelings of 9/11 survivors and families and do not wish to undervalue their sensitivities and believe the selection  of this site was not the wisest decision, however I would like to point out some positives of the site. First New York is a multiethnic city where people of all faiths mix well together. Having Park51 in the middle of a commercial center of New York, will encourage this mixing of people.  The continuing isolation of Muslims, will only lead to more radicalization. It is only by encouraging them to be part of what is right about our society that we can encourage progressive Muslim leadership. Also, at this site Park51 will be under scrutiny that will help ensure radicalization does not spread there.  If through the efforts of Governor Paterson and others another acceptable site can be found that would be good solution. However, let us be sure that it is a site that encouages the integration of Muslims, not isolation.

Finally, let me just state that we cannot be afraid of people because they are different than us. Some the stereotyping and irrational fear that has taken place over the Park51 debate shows our worst, not better nature.