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Should a mosque be built at Ground Zero?

http://images.indyposted.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Mosque-Near-Ground-Zero1.jpg

Kaelyne Rocca May 13, 2011 Devin Ozdogu

English 4

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Table of Contents: Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Background………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Arguments Opposing the Mosque………………………………………………………………...4 Arguments In Favor of the Mosque……………………………………………………………….7 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………….10 Reflection………………………………………………………………………………………...11 Bibliography……………………………………………………………………………………..12 Annotated Bibliography………………………………………………………………………….15

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Introduction: On December 8, 2009 ideas from Imam Fiesal arose about a Community mosque requested to be built within 600 ft (51 Park Place) of Ground Zero where the Twin Tower were destroyed in New York City. It was only nine years ago that Islamic extremists attacked and demolished the World Trade Center under the justification of Jihad's laws. America is still at war with Islamic extremists in the Middle East and it makes us as Americans wonder if building a mosque so close to a spot where they destroyed our land is safe for our country and its citizens. This paper will attempt to answer the question: Should there be a mosque built at Ground Zero? Background: December 8, 2009 was the first time that the “Ground Zero” mosque was brought to the attention of the American people with an optimistic view by the NY Times front page article Muslim Prayers and Renewal Near Ground Zero by Ralph Blumenthal and Sharaf Mowjood. The NY Times article gave information on the idea of building the Cordoba house or more recently referred to as Park51 is a Muslim community center that is planned to be built in lower Manhattan. The proposed site is not even two blocks from where the World Trade Center stood until nine years ago when Muslim extremist flew two airplanes into the Twin Towers. The planned edifice is to be a “glass-and-steel building would include a 500-seat performing arts venue, a swimming pool and a basketball court,” (Jackson & Hutchinson, pg. 1). Park51 is to be located in the same spot of the Burlington Coat Factory that was damaged by flying debris of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center. Conflict arose from the original naming of the project that was Cordoba House because of its historical background. Deciding to build the mosque two blocks from Ground Zero, and to, “... give the mosque a jihadist name: Cordoba House, named after the capital of the Muslim conquest of Spain centuries ago.” (Toronto Sun, pg. 1) seemed a little bit suspicious and wrong to many of the critics of the Ground Zero mosque. In an effort to reduce controversy the mosque has been renamed Park 51, which is the address of where mosque is to be built. Many who had lost family and friends in the attack on 9/11 feel the location of the proposed site of the mosque is insensitive. During the attack debris from the World Trade Center fell on to the building where the mosque is supposed to be built. The relatives and friends who lost loved ones during 9/11 feel it is not right for a community center to built so close to the Ground Zero by the religion of those who made the attack. The location of the mosque is what people are opposed to, it isn’t the building of a mosque or Muslim community center because, according to William J. Federer, “In less than 10 years, the number of mosques in New York City has skyrocketed to over 140,” (Federer, pg.1). The fact that these people want it so close to the attack site is what people are opposed to because it was and is a place where nearly 3000 people were killed and injured. The United States is very tolerant for the Islamic religion, and it is shown everywhere that a mosque is built. For the most part up until a mosque was supposed to be built so close to Ground Zero, nobody had an issue with mosques or the religion. The US is tolerant of all religions as it is

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stated in the Constitution. At its core and for hundreds of years America has been the only country to tolerate all religions without having conflict. There still today is no issue with religions themselves, but with the lack of morality on those who feel they are in charge of the religion and feel they can decide where religious centers can be built. America never told the Islam’s that they are unable to build the mosque or ever made it clear they are unfair to them either. All that is ever asked is that other peoples feeling and choices of religion are taken into account during their decisions to build religious centers only 600 feet away from where their religion killed so many. The proposition of the Muslim community center in lower Manhattan has sparked controversy in New York from the two groups that are either for or against the building of the Mosque. The building of a community center has turned into a political argument of insensitivity and religious freedom. Arguments Opposing the Mosque: Reason #1: The “Ground Zero” mosque has brought disagreement to critics of the intentions of the Imam’s planned location for the mosque and the initial naming of the project. Many critics like William J. Federer think of when, “In 784, after the conquest of Spain, Emir Abd ar-Rahman turned the prominent Visigoth Christian Church of Saint Vincent into the Great Aljama Mosque of Cordoba.” (Federer, 1). It has become hard not to think about the correlation between the way that the Umayyad conquests unraveled and what according to some is a modernized attempt at global conquest. Gabriel Scheinmann has also noted the correlation between conquest and Mosque building, “Given the long history of mosque-building following Muslim military victories, the building of the Cordoba House on Ground Zero will be seen in the same light as the Muslim conquests of Mecca, Jerusalem, and Constantinople.” (Scheinmann, 1). Scheinmann and Federer noticed a trend in Islamic conquest and they have found the “Ground Zero” Mosque inappropriate because as Scheinmann said, “This would not be read in the Muslim world as a sign of the West's tolerance, but of its weakness”(Scheinmann, 1).

As far as Muslim conquest in history goes back there has been a reoccurring correlation with Muslims building mosques on their enemies’ sacred sites. Scheinmann noted this reoccurrence, “Over the long history of Muslim territorial advance, thousands of mosques, from Spain to India, were built on sites of important religious or political value to their defeated foes.” (Scheinmann, 1). The connection that critics and some in favor of the mosque are linking is the “Ground Zero” Mosque directly to the Great Mosque, or Mezquita, of Cordoba. In 784 conquest was shown by taking over your enemy’s pride and making it yours as, “The Great Mosque, or Mezquita, of Cordoba was itself a Visigoth Church that was converted and rebuilt as a mosque following Muslim conquest in 784, lasting nearly 500 years before it was recaptured and converted back into a Catholic cathedral” (Scheinmann, pg.1). Critics of the “Ground Zero” mosque believe that allowing the mosque to be built would send out the image of dominance of Islam over the United States. The mosque built in Spain, called the Cordoba house takes precedent in this situation because the mosque built there was a sign of conquest on grounds which were taken over by Islam’s, and this is seen by many as the same thing that is happening at Ground Zero in New York. According to

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an article written by Mike Elkin of the Christian Science Monitor, “The Islamic cultural center and mosque that Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf hopes to build was originally named Córdoba House, after the city that was ruled by Muslims from the 8th to 13th centuries,” (Elkin, 1). This mosque in Cordoba Spain was a symbol of conquest on the part of Muslims toward the Spanish. When Imam Rauf first proposed the Ground Zero mosque idea, he wanted it named Cordoba House to draw a correlation to the one in Spain. To Americans it shows that the reason for the mosque is to give the impression of victory on their part and America openly giving in to Muslim culture. Reason #2: The World Trade Center was not quite a ‘sacred site’ but it was the center of the world’s largest capitalist economy. By taking down the World Trade Center and building a mosque, some Muslim moderates consider it be a statement through architecture. Zuhdi Jasser founder of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy believes that, “For us, a mosque was always a place to pray, to be together on holidays — not a way to make an ostentatious architectural statement,’’ Jasser said. “Ground Zero shouldn’t be about promoting Islam. It’s the place where war was declared on us as Americans’’ (Jacoby, 1)1. Those in charge should realize this as well so that the mosque seen more as a place to pray and not somewhere they are just making a statement. The statement will be highly looked down upon where as if it is being built to be a mosque and a place for people to pray, it can be seen as a peaceful religious center. According to Republican candidate for Governor and former member of the House of Representatives, Rick Lazio states that, “With over 100 mosques in New York City, this is not an issue of religion, but one of safety and security,” (Associated Press and Reuters, 1). Thus, he is saying that the need to build another mosque is not necessary given that its location can potentially harm some people. Due to this controversy, many mosque supporters feel that there is a lack of religious freedom towards those in favor of the mosque since it is so highly opposed. However, the issue of no freedom of religion does come into play on the part of Islamists,

Their holiest site is forbidden to non-believers, they demand that nations in which other religions dominate grant them space and opportunity to build their mosques. The idea that this could be reciprocal is virtually unknown in Muslim communities since Islam is the superior creed and, by Allah’s word, should reign over the earth and over all the other religions (Winter, 1).

This issue has been brought up many times, and as Winter, a journalist for Pajamas Media, states the people of Muslim belief would never allow anything except a mosque to be built there, let alone so close to Mecca. In America Muslims are trying to built a mosque very close to a holy site, where many were killed and loved ones were lost. The fact that the Muslims in support of this mosque feel they can build a holy center of their own so close to Ground Zero is insulting. Another issue raised about this Community Center, is the day in which it is supposed to be opened. Currently the date is set for 9/11/2011, the same day and month in which the World Trade Center was attacked on, only ten years later. Many feel this is insulting because it is the tenth anniversary for the day it was attacked and they want to open a mosque on a day which many will be morning those who were lost on that day, just ten years ago. Lauren Green from 1 This is where we stopped typing as a group.

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Fox News states, “I think that it is incredibly insensitive and audacious really for them to build a mosque, not only on that site, but to do it specifically so that they could be in proximity to where that atrocity happened," said Burlingame, who is co-founder of 9/11 Families for a Safe and Strong America,” (Green, 1). This not only supports those who already speak up about the mosque and it’s location so close to Ground Zero, but also the day in which it is said to be open. The open date only makes many more resent the project all together because the builders don’t have the decency and respect to open it on a day that isn’t mourned by people all over the world. In the United State of America, citizens have the legal right to build whatever they choose on a piece of land they own. However, that doesn’t mean that what is built is always morally right, and should be built there for the betterment of the country and the people around it. Some who opposed the mosque feel, "It is insensitive and uncaring for the Muslim community to build a mosque in the shadow of Ground Zero. While the Muslim community has the right to build the mosque they are abusing that right by needlessly offending so many people who have suffered so much,” states Peter King a member of the House of Representatives, (Associated Press, 1). Many who have suffered and don’t want it built will have to drive by it on their way to work, and it may be an eye sore to those who were not in favor of it. Many feel that there should be a public vote on whether to build the mosque or not, so that at the very least the people of lower Manhattan are heard based on their opinion towards the mosque. Reason #3: Sources of finance for this project have not been disclosed and therefore it cannot be proven whether the funding is coming from terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah, Hamas or the Iranian government, all of which approve of this mosque being built there. Also, many feel that the original name of the project, Cordoba House, too closely relates to how Muslim’s took over Cordoba, Spain, and then built a mosque in the center of the city to show their victory over that portion of the country. Many feel that it was intentional and feel that it may have reason to do with why finance hasn’t fully been disclosed to the public. It may be because Imam Rauf is getting money from sources outside the US and from terrorist organizations, or simply from people in America. However no one knows for sure. The leaders in charge of the Park 51 mosque have not disclosed where the bulk of their funding is fully coming from. According to John Gralla from Reuters, he states that, “The mosque's backers hope to raise a total of $70 million in tax-exempt debt to build the center, according to the New York Times. Tax laws allow such funding for religiously affiliated non-profits if they can prove the facility will benefit the general public and their religious activities are funded separate,” (Gralla, 1). Thus saying that Imam Rauf and his followers plan to use the tax dollars that tax payers will not be paying, so the US will be losing money from the project. That alone says that people will be forced to have their money sent to the funds of this project because by law, anyone who holds a legal job in the US must pay both state and federal taxes. Many who oppose the mosque also feel that terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah, Hamas, or the Iranian government may help pay for this mosque as well. One woman, Debra Burlingame, who is a member of 9/11 Families for a Safe & Strong America fells that, “Foreign funding raises red

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flags. The money is very important. They can't do what they do -- I'm talking about Islamists -- without the money coming from somewhere,” (Topousis, 1). She is not only a person who is against the mosque but she also lost her bother who was a pilot aboard the hijacked jetliner that struck the Pentagon, (Gralla, 1) So she has first hand experience at what it feels like to lose a loved one in a terrorist attack, and now must see people of the same religion trying to build a place of peace only 2 blocks away, and deal with not knowing who exactly will be paying for the $100 million project. Many critics of the Ground Zero mosque feel that Hamas, and possibly the Iranian government are supporting this mosque and believe it should be built at the location, 51 Park Place. Tom Brown, chief opponent of the mosque said, “This is what we've been saying . . . Imam Rauf is a radical Muslim who will not call Hamas a terror group,” (Miller, 1). Therefore, Imam Rauf feels that it would be fine to not only receive funding from Hamas on this project, as he has stated multiple times, but also have their support in the project as a whole. Having Hamas and the Iranian government in support of this mosque could pose a great danger to our country given it is in such close proximity to where, just 10 years ago, terrorist organization completely demolished the World Trade Center. Hamas was proven a terrorist organization in, “a series called Intelligence Squared U.S., produced in New York by WNYC,” where three experts argue in favor, and three experts argue against it, the audience then votes on which should be approved, (Davidson, 1). The conclusion of this debate was that “A democratically elected Hamas is still a terrorist organization,” (Davidson, 1). Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, who has yet to take a position on the mosque states, “Hamas is a terrorist organization, and their views don't deserve any weight on anything,” his spokesman said, (Miller & Topousis, 1). This man poses a valid point as he and many others believe the views of any terrorist organization should not be heard in America, especially one of Muslim supporters who also supporting the mosque that so many are against. Arguments in Favor of the Mosque: With many people in disagreement with the Muslim Community center being built on 51 Park Place there is a large amount of people who do not see the Ground Zero mosque as a threat to American Society. Reason #1: According to the US Constitution any US Citizen has the right to build as they please on land that they own without going against building codes and the jurisdiction that applies. Thus said, those who are against the mosque being built really can’t stop the initiative because the land is independently owned. Mayor of New York, Michael Bloomberg feels that,

The heat of the debate has been a basic question—should government attempt to deny private citizens the right to build a house of worship on private property based on their particular religion? That may happen in other countries, but we should never allow it to happen here. This nation was founded on the principle that the government must never choose between religions, or favor one over another, (Neufville, 1).

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Bloomberg has a very valid point because if the United States stopped the mosque form being built solely on the grounds of religion, it would be going against the foundation of our country. In essence they would be violating not only the constitution but also the rights that human beings have in this country. Many people feel that it should be built and if it wasn’t that they would be denied their inalienable rights as stated in the constitution. The leaders of the project, as in Imam Rauf and his followers, privately own the land in which the mosque is going to be built on. With that said and given that the old Burlington Coat Factory building is not a historical landmark, the mosque will still be built. The only way that the location would be moved is if the current land is found to be historical, and cannot be tampered with, or built on. Currently there is nothing that has been brought up that will legally prevent the mosque from being built. The only issue in which those opposing the project have is that it is so close to Ground Zero. Supporters and those in charge however, not only have the right to build it there but there is also nothing that the general public can do to stop it. If someone were to try and cease the project, there would most likely be uproar from the supporters because at the current time there is nothing that is troubling about it. It has not harmed the general public and according to its supporters and leaders it won’t harm anyone either, it is meant to be a good thing for the community. America was built on the grounds of freedom for those who are citizens and one of those rights, which are stated in the First Amendment, is the Freedom of Religion. This meaning that no United States citizen can be told who or what to believe in and when or where to pray. The issue of the Ground Zero mosque however is bringing this up constantly and its supporters are being told more and more frequently that the mosque should not be built because they are Muslims and that is the religion of the people who attacked the World Trade Center on 9/11/2001. President Obama feels that, "As a citizen, and as president, I believe that Muslims have the same right to practice their religion as everyone else in this country," (Associated Press, 1). He is one hundred percent correct and it would be religiously discriminating if it weren’t built just because it is supposed to be a Muslim Community Center. Though many feel it shouldn’t be since that is the same religion in which the building was attacked by, you can’t judge a religion at its entirety, by its radical minority. Reason #2: Islam is the religion of peace according to those who support the mosque and are a part of the Islamic and Muslim faith. For a very long time people have heard this, and many believe that it is, based on their own beliefs and those of studies done. According to “a recent Gallup survey, 93% of Muslims around the world are peaceful, mainstream Muslims, and of the ‘politically radicalized’ 7%, only a small minority advocate the use of violence.” (Intelligence squared, 1). Thus saying that the vast majority of people who support the Islamic culture are peaceful and do not intend to create any harm by having a mosque at Ground Zero. These people simply want to have a place of worship in which they can pray and practice their religion without persecution.

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In the Muslim and Islamic culture there are radicals who feel that when they commit a crime it is done in the name of Allah and in order to help the Muslim culture. Neither is true according to the larger group of Muslims who practice their religion all across the world. One mosque supporter believes that, “We shouldn’t confuse a group of radical jihadists with Muslims as a whole,” (Neufville, 1). This is true because although the media and politicians say on a daily basis that it is all Muslims that cause the problems in the world, that is simply not the case. Religion is not the sole reason that problems are started, although it sometimes does come down to that. In Lower Manhattan where the mosque is going to be built, it is the peaceful side of Muslims and Islam’s that want to build it. Up to this point there has been no proof of terrorist support in the project, and it doesn’t look like there will be, since it is going to be a community center. Those who are in opposition of the mosque and feel that it should not be built in America and certainly not near Ground Zero feel this way, because of the lack of religious freedom that is expressed in the Middle Eastern countries. However, “Saudi Arabia’s intolerance of Christians is certainly no reason to be equally intolerant of American Muslims who do not make Saudi laws,” (Neufville, 1). By this he means that America is a place where humans are allowed to practice any religion of their choice freely. In Saudi Arabia and other countries within the Middle East this is not the case because those civilizations were not built on such foundations. Therefore what Neufville is trying to say by this, is that Saudi Arabia’s way of dealing with other religions is not relevant to the mosque that is going to be built at Ground Zero. Whether or not the Middle East allows churches to built there, America does allow it, and will continue to because it doesn’t run a civilization similar to that of Saudi Arabia. Reason #3: The mosque is meant to improve the Muslim West relations in America, therefore putting in a good reputation for the not only Muslims who already live here, but those to come in the future as well. The Park 51 leaders state that the mosque, "aims to improve relations between Islam and the West by hosting leadership conferences for young American Muslims, organizing programs on Arab-Jewish relations, and empowering Muslim women, according to public statements” (Arnold. 1). Thus stating that it would help people and Muslims become better and more informed lives in America. The mosque could potentially bring everyone together and not just the Muslims who go to the mosque to pray but also just average people who want to hear the speeches or see events which may be held there. Though mosque was first seen as a terrible idea by many, those who like the idea can go and meet people of all different faiths, religions, and beliefs without feeling threatened in any way. The other main factor in improving the Muslim West Relations is listening to the moderate voices of those who want to live a peaceful happy life here in America, while still practicing their Muslim faith and religion. One man who lost his nephew in the attacks, Bruce Wallace, feels that, “The moderate Muslim voice has been squashed in America; here is a chance to allow

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moderate Muslims to teach people that not all Muslims are terrorists,” (Associated Press, 1). This man has an extremely valid point as many who are opposed to the mosque say that it is because Muslims are the ones who attacked us on 9/11/2001. Though many feel this way, Bruce Wallace believes that the mosque will allow the moderate Muslims to be able to speak up about how they are not intending to be terrorists and destroy the country, and would only like to live a free life here in America. This is the case for many Muslims and maybe the mosque at Ground Zero will help make the change for those who are less likely to speak up. The Park 51 Muslim Community Center could be the knot to bring America and Muslims together as one. Board Member Rob Townley said, “It's a seed of peace. We believe that this is significant step in the Muslim community to counteract the hate and fanaticism in the minority of the community,” (Associated Press, 1). Thus stating that building a mosque within close distance to Ground Zero will help get rid of the negative thoughts people have about Muslims. Their plan is to have the mosque be a place of peace which will bring people of all religions together. Given that the mosque would be built in New York which is a large well known city, it would help other cities and states around the country recognize all the positives which can be found in a Muslim Community Center. As Board Member Townley said, “It’s a seed of peace,” and that is exactly what they hope it will be; a place in which people can go to peacefully pray and worship their own beliefs, and thoughts. Conclusion: This paper was written with the purpose of answering the question, “Should a mosque by built at Ground Zero?” However, there is no straight answer, or one which is right or wrong. The building of a mosque at Ground Zero is an issue which has been debated since 2009 and is still being discussed because many feel it is insensitive to build it there. A few of the different issues which arose, was the naming of the project, where the money would come from, and whether or not terrorist organizations would support it. All of these have not been fully resolved, yet each was brought up and discussed both by politicians and the leaders of the project like Imam Rauf, and like any good argument or debate there are always two sides which need to be fully looked at and taken in for account. In regards to the Ground Zero mosque, it seems that many are either for, or against the project. Those who are in favor believe that it should be built based off of the United States Constitution and the right which they contain as legal citizens to built it there. Other supporters say that it will be a place of peace which will help the Muslim west relations. The people against the mosque have said that it should not be built because it can be insensitive to those who lost family and friends in the 9/11 attack. Others opposing it claim that there are already over 100 mosques in New York and the location of this one could be moved. Each side of the arguments on the Ground Zero mosque have great points which can either prove it right or wrong, or whether or not it should or should not be built. Yet, it still comes down to if

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it will be built. At its current state, the building of the mosque has begun, and even with the lack of some popular support it is set to open on September 11, 2011. Reflection: When I first started writing this paper, I felt that it was not right in any way to build a mosque so close to Ground Zero given that it was people of the Muslim faith who attacked the United Stated on 9/11/2001. Once I began doing all the research, I found that there was more than what I had just heard and seen off of Fox News every night. I made an effort to find facts and articles to support those in favor as well and found that even people who lost relatives still want it built because they believe it can help build a relationship between the US and Muslims. I also found a lot of information that helped to support my idea that it should not be built. There were many articles about the financial situation and who would be helping to pay for the project as well. Through the entire process though I have come to understand both sides of the argument, and why people want it built there. My opinion on the issue of Park 51 has changed, and now I have more of a neutral mind set on the project, given that I know so much about both sides now. Writing a paper on a subject that is very biased was difficult for me especially because I had my own opinion on the issue going into it. Once I began writing I realized it is actually easier to write unbiased because you don’t need to worry about somebody trying to prove you wrong. Everything that is stated is supported by facts and evidence, and there are articles to prove it. Not only did it help me with this topic on the Ground Zero mosque, but also on other issues in society right now as well. It taught me to explore both sides of an argument before setting my heart on one opinion because there may be something out there which wasn’t said on TV and is relevant to the issue. In relation to this topic, I learned that people out there really want the mosque built to better society and who are we to stop them. Objective writing is much easier, and makes more sense especially when writing a paper because your points, and those of others can be proven much easier.

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“The Cordoba Center is going to cost at least $100 million. But, quote, ‘Exactly how the Cordoba Initiative will be financed remains unclear.’” “or a while, they were talking about they were going to open it on 9-11-01.” http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,599162,00.html#ixzz1GJTAcx5C

Davidson, Adam. “Hamas: Government or Terrorist Organization.” NPR. December 6, 2006. March 17, 2011. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6583080 Diaz, Elizabeth. “Many Religious Leaders (Except for Franklin Graham) Support the Mosque.” Time. August 18, 2010. December 16, 2010.

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Goldman, Russell. “Islamic Center Backers wont Rule Out Taking Funds from Saudi Arabia, Iran.” ABC News. August 18, 2010. March 15, 2011.

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http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/foreign_mosque_money_OSkAG6ucmWz6yPAJU61cTO

Toronto Sun. “Monument to Jihad.” Toronto Sun. August 7, 2010. November 19, 2010.

http://www.torontosun.com/comment/2010/07/26/14835681.html (opposing) Winter, Leon de. “A Mosque in New York for a Church in Mecca.” Pajamas Media/ Free Republic. August 15, 2010. March 11, 2011.

http://pajamasmedia.com/blog/a-mosque-in-new-york-for-a-christian-church-in-mecca/ (opposing)

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Annotated Bibliography:

Title: Building Mosques on Sacred Sites of Defeated Enemies a Symbol of Conquest Author: Gabriel Schienmann Website: http://www.hudson-ny.org/1496/mosques-on-sacred-sites-of-defeated-enemies Category: Opposing Argument Date Downloaded: November 21, 2010 Date Published: August 23, 2010 Summary: In this article it talks about how the Ground Zero mosque will be seen more as a sign of conquest than as a place for peace. Schienmann gives dates and time periods from when Islam took over other countries and then built large mosques very close to the exact site of their conquest. He also explains how though the people in charge, like Imam Rauf and his followers say that it will help bring Islam into America as a positive thing, they may actually be trying to show the weakness of America to other countries. The reason that it is believed that the Cordoba house will not be a place for all religions is because in those mosques in other countries have inscribed things on the wall saying that Christians and Jews should not exaggerate their religion. Thus saying that the Muslims feel their religion of Islam is above the rest. Overall he discusses and gives evidence of times when Muslims took over and built mosques in their places of conquest or attack to show that they now have power there. Key Quotations:

● “Given the long history of mosque-building following Muslim military victories, the building of the Cordoba House on Ground Zero will be seen in the same light as the Muslim conquests of Mecca, Jerusalem, and Constantinople.” (Scheinmann, pg.1)

● “This would not be read in the Muslim world as a sign of the West's tolerance, but of its weakness”(Scheinmann, pg.1).

● “Over the long history of Muslim territorial advance, thousands of mosques, from Spain to India, were built on sites of important religious or political value to their defeated foes.” (Scheinmann, pg.1).

● “The Great Mosque, or Mezquita, of Cordoba was itself a Visigoth Church that was converted and rebuilt as a mosque following Muslim conquest in 784, lasting nearly 500 years before it was recaptured and converted back into a Catholic cathedral” (Scheinmann, pg.1).

Title: Monument to Jihad Author: Toronto Sun Website: http://www.torontosun.com/comment/2010/07/26/14835681.html Category: Opposing Argument Date Downloaded: November 19, 2010 Date Published: August 7, 2010 Summary: In the article Monument to Jihad the author wrote of his/ her skepticism of allowing the Muslim community to build an Architectural statement so close to the site of a mass murder of nearly 3000 American citizens. The proposed community center is estimated to cost about 100 million dollars of funding from unknown sources. The skepticism is also aroused by the

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community center’s main advocate Feisal Abdul Rauf who is according to the author a radical Imam who happens to believe that Hamas (Islamic Resistance Movement) which is labeled a terrorist organization by the United States, Israel, the European Union, Canada, and Japan not to be a terrorist organization. The radical Imam also claimed that America had it coming after the attack on the World Trade Center on 60 minutes. And in conclusion the Author wrote that he/ she believed that park51 should be watched under a close eye. Key Quotations:

● “But even America-hating radicals have the right to build mosques in America, even at Ground Zero. That’s what makes America different from Saudi Arabia, where non-Muslims aren’t allowed to set foot in Mecca, let alone build a church. But does the Saudi government have the right to build at Ground Zero” (Toronto Sun, pg.1)

● “... give the mosque a jihadist name: Cordoba House, named after the capital of the Muslim conquest of Spain centuries ago. ” (Toronto Sun, pg. 1)

Title: Plan to Build Mosque Near Ground Zero Riles Families of 9/11 Victims Author: Lauren Green Website:http://www.foxnews.com/us/2010/05/14/plan-build-mosque-near-ground-zero-riles-families-victims/ Category: Opposing Argument Date Downloaded: November 18, 2010 Date Published: May 14, 2010 Summary: In the article by Lauren Green from fox news she covers the sensitivity and concerns with the Ground Zero mosque from the perspective of some of the New York residents. The comments and concerns of people all across America happen to have a lot in common. The disagreements are centered on the location and religious ideologies that are centered around Park51. One very specific concern was the fact that it is the prayer place for the religion that embraces the ideology that justified what happened on September 11, 2001. And with the question of where the 100 million dollars will be raised to build the religious structure citizens believe that the very least that could be done would be for the government to place a close watchful eye over the community center. Key Quotations:

● “This is a place which is 600 feet from where almost 3,000 people were torn to pieces by Islamic extremists," said Debra Burlingame, whose brother died in the attack on the Pentagon that day.” (Green, pg.1)

● “I think that it is incredibly insensitive and audacious really for them to build a mosque, not only on that site, but to do it specifically so that they could be in proximity to where that atrocity happened," said Burlingame, who is co-founder of 9/11 Families for a Safe and Strong America.” (Green, pg.1)

● "How can you build a shrine to the very ideology that brought down the World Trade Center?" asked Geller,” (Green, pg.1)

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● “Burlingame says, "The idea that you would establish a religious institution that embraces the very Shariah Law that terrorists point to as their justification for what they did ... to build that where almost 3,000 people died, that is an obscenity to me."” (Green, pg. 1)

Title: Bloomberg's aides provided political support for Ground Zero mosque, released emails show Author: Kathleen Lucadamo & Erin Einhorn Website:http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2010/12/23/2010-12-23_bloombergs_aides_provided_political_support_for_ground_zero_mosque_released_emai.html#ixzz1AHBXJcXV Category: In Favor of Argument Date Downloaded: January 6, 2011 Date Published: December 23, 2010 Summary: In this article it tells how Mayor Bloomberg of New York City is in favor of the mosque and feels that it should be built. He along with the woman in charge of community and immigrant affairs are working to have to mosque built. The community affairs commissioner drafted a letter to send to Daisy Khan in order to have the mosque voted on. Currently there is already a temporary permit allowing Muslims and people of other religions to begin to pray at the site in order to show that they do want the mosque built at this particular site. According to those in charge in New York City, it is their job to make sure the City stays the best city in the world and by doing so they say they like to help all people who would like to do something in their city. Key Quotations:

● “Mayor Bloomberg's top deputies went to great lengths to help the developers of a planned mosque near Ground Zero - even drafting a letter to the community board for them.”

● “Another email shows that Immigrant Affairs Commissioner Fatima Shama expedited a temporary public assembly permit for the group to conduct prayers in January at the site, known as 51 Park.”

● “City Hall says it is the job of the community and immigrant affairs commissioners to assist community groups, including drafting letters for them. Officials noted Bloomberg has always been in favor of building the mosque near Ground Zero.”

Title: Plan for mosque near World Trade Center site moves ahead Author: Joe Jackson and Bill Hutchinson Website:http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2010/05/06/2010-05-06_plan_for_mosque_near_world_trade_center_site_moves_ahead.html#ixzz15Nj9a1iU

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Category: Background/Neutral Date Downloaded: September 1, 2010 Date Published: May 11, 2010 Summary: In the article it discusses how at a meeting held for the Ground Zero mosque they talked about what went on. It states that at the meeting there was nobody there who opposed it, and the only people who do know of it being opposed are those who are either victims of 9/11 themselves or relatives of the victims. Imam Rauf expressed his ideas and said that he thought it was a great idea, and so did Daisy Khan, both of which are people who are leaders in building the mosque. Finally they said that the 1’s financial district and the 12- member committee community board tells how the $100 million project would be paid and endorsed for the project. Towards the end of the article it expresses the concerns of 2 people who lost their sons in the attack and both show their hate and disgust toward the building. Key Quotations:

● “No one at last night's meeting protested the project. But some 9/11 families said they found the proposal offensive because the terrorists who launched the attacks were Muslim.”

● “Imam Feisel Abdul Rauf, who helped found the Cordoba Initiative following the 9/11 attacks, said the project is intended to foster better relations between the West and Muslims.”

● “A proposal to build a mosque steps from Ground Zero received the support of a downtown committee despite some loved ones of 9/11 victims finding it offensive.”

Title: If the Mosque Isn’t Built, This Is No Longer America. Author: Michael Moore Website:http://www.michaelmoore.com/words/mike-friends-blog/if-mosque-isnt-built-no-longer-america Category: In Favor of Argument Date Downloaded: December 12, 2010 Date Published: September 11, 2010 Summary: In this article Michael Moore who is probably better known for his film productions wrote this political piece on the Ground Zero community center. His outlook on the issue is part of the minority in which he is in favor of the building of park51. While other sources are in disagreement with the community center being to close to the crash site, Mr. Moore believes that the community center should be built on the site. He claims in his article that if park51 isn’t built then we would no longer reside in his ideal America. Mr. Moore concludes his statement by saying it is our responsibility to help the moderate Muslims of America and help them “get their religion back.” Key Quotations:

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● “I am opposed to the building of the "mosque" two blocks from Ground Zero. I want it built on Ground Zero.” (Moore pg.1)

● “I believe in an America that protects those who are the victims of hate and prejudice. I believe in an America that says you have the right to worship whatever God you have, wherever you want to worship. And I believe in an America that says to the world that we are a loving and generous people and if a bunch of murderers steal your religion from you and use it as their excuse to kill 3,000 souls, then I want to help you get your religion back.” (Moore pg. 1)

Title: Mosque of Conquest Author: William J. Federer Website: http://www.wnd.com/index.php?pageId=194997 Category: Opposing Argument Date Downloaded: November 21, 2010 Date Published: August 24, 2010 Summary: In this article William J. Federer provides a timeline of events related to Muslims using mosques to show conquest. In the timeline there are countless times throughout history in which Muslims took over churches, synagogues, and other sacred places of their enemies. And after the timeline William J. Federer brought up the idea that it wouldn’t be too much too ask for a little thought into the idea that park51 might be more than just a community center. Key Quotations:

● “In 784, after the conquest of Spain, Emir Abd ar-Rahman turned the prominent Visigothic Christian Church of Saint Vincent into the Great Aljama Mosque of Cordoba.” (Federer, pg. 1)

● “Algerian Muslims warred against French colonial rule till France pulled out in 1962, after which the Cathedral of St. Philippe was turned into the Ketchaoua Mosque. Violence against Jews caused 30,000 to flee and the Great Synagogue of Oran was turned into the Mosque Abdellah Ben Salem. “ (Federer, pg. 1)

Title: A mosque at Ground Zero? Author: Jeff Jacoby Website:http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2010/06/06/a_mosque_at_ground_zero/ Category: Opposing Argument Date Downloaded: November 20, 2010 Date Published: June 6, 2010 Summary: This article describes how Muslims can and have built mosques in place in the United States and had no problem with it what so ever. A ground of Muslim Sufis built a mosque

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in 1980 in Neeah, Wisconson, and there has never been issues with it. This group of Sufi Muslims though is opposed to the mosque at Ground Zero because “Sufism is supposed to be based on sensitivity towards others.” They say that what Rauf, who claims to be a Sufi Muslim, is trying to do at Ground Zero is not right because it is insensitive to those who lost people in the attack of 9/11. Overall it tells how a mosque should be seen as a good thing yet some feel that building one so close to Ground Zero is not right. Key Quotations:

● “For us, a mosque was always a place to pray, to be together on holidays — not a way to make an ostentatious architectural statement,’’ Jasser said. “Ground Zero shouldn’t be about promoting Islam. It’s the place where war was declared on us as Americans’’ (Jacoby, pg. 1).

● “But he worries about the number of Americans who may be “hurt and upset’’ by the project, and wonders whether a mosque is really the best thing for Muslims to build so close to Ground Zero. Why not something less emotionally charged, he asks — a social-service agency, perhaps, or an assisted living center for the elderly?” (Jacoby, pg. 1)

● “Muslims must take the feelings of Americans into account, Ahmed contends.” (Jacoby, pg. 1)