By Anna Meany
Recently, the United States commemorated the ninth anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001. As the nation mourned the loss of thousands, protests disrupted the emotional services held in remembrance. A proposed community center, including places of worship for Christians, Jews and Muslims, is commonly and incorrectly referred to as the Ground Zero mosque. Park 51 is the intended name of the center, which is set to include a performing arts center, a swimming pool, a basketball court, a large prayer space and other amenities. The center would also feature a memorial to honor victims of the Sept. 11 attacks.
Park 51, located two blocks from the site of Ground Zero, has stirred controversy from groups promoting spiritual unity, as well groups who deem the center disrespectful. A large segment of the population is making decisions about Park 51 before they understand its meaning.
In August, a New York cab driver was stabbed by his passenger. The passenger first inquired if the driver was Muslim. Ironically, the passenger volunteers for Intersections International, a group dedicated to supporting diversity. Intersections International released a statement supporting the building of Park 51 and condemning this incident.
In a Nashville suburb, a damaging fire was started at the site of a new mosque being built. Many locals oppose the mosque. One area man told the Associated Press that Islam isn’t a religion and that Muslims belong to a “political, militaristic group.” Others called it “a terrorist training ground.”
Reverend Terry Jones of the Dove World Outreach Center had planned to burn the Quran on the anniversary of Sept. 11. Jones said he organized the burning because he blamed Islam for worldwide terror. Will burning a book show respect to those who died in the attacks nine years ago? Jones’ plan caused riots in Afghanistan and resulted in the death of two protesters. He eventually canceled the planned event. But not before he made a mockery of himself and his congregation by attempting to degrade the Islamic faith by such an archaic action. He humiliated the United States, presenting an attitude that not all citizens hold.
The proposition of an Islamic community center has showcased the worst of our country. Extreme actions have given way to a general opposition of Park 51. Issues like racial profiling and hate crimes are becoming more prevalent within our society. In one sense, their fear is expected and somewhat understandable. Investigations proved that the attacks on Sept. 11 were created and carried out by a few Islamic radicals. But to ostracize all Muslims is ignorant and shameful. Six days after the attacks, President George W. Bush spoke at a Washington, D.C. mosque and urged America not to let this become a war against Islam. A distinction between Islamic extremists and traditional Muslims is vital to the tolerance of Muslims in America. The growing phobia of Islam has resulted from inaccurate news stories that present biased information and strive for emotional appeal. Perhaps if the American public wasn’t spoon fed stories that induced fear and hatred, such violent acts wouldn’t occur.
Park 51 provides an opportunity to expand our knowledge and acceptance of foreign cultures. It’s time to call for interfaith unity by promoting the building of this community center.
