Too many words have already been written and spoken regarding this controversy, but if we can begin to learn how to disagree and argue well, then we have a real chance of overcoming the challenges that face us locally and nationally. If you look at this issue specifically and remove the emotions behind many people’s rhetoric, then you can easily see the validity behind many of the arguments. Let’s take a look:
Pro Mosque at Ground Zero (3 Main Arguments)
1) First Amendment/Freedom of Religion – The main point for these supporters is that the constitutional right to freedom of religion is the most important factor in this debate, trumping all others. To be sure, this is an important value to uphold.
2) Tolerance – As a freedom-loving, tolerant people, Americans have the responsibility to be tolerant to all walks of life, all religions and all cultures. It is part of what makes America so great and should be lauded as a virture.
3) Reconciliation – Some 9/11 families fully support this project in order to move towards more reconciliation between moderate Muslims and victims’ families. This is also one of the stated purposes of the Cordoba House project at Park51. This is an important argument to keep in mind that should not be lost in the fray.
Anti Mosque at Ground Zero (3 Main Arguments)
1) Respect – Out of respect for those who gave their lives, it is not a good idea to build a mosque or Islamic Center so close to the hallowed ground at WTC 1 and 2. The same idea prevents the building of Japanese centers near Pearl Harbor or Serbian Churches beside Srebrenica.
2) Decency – Similar to the first argument, but more focused on victims’ families, this point asks the question, “Is it worth the additional pain of victims’ friends and families?” Some 9/11 families are worried that going to the already painful site at Ground Zero will be worse if there is a towering Islamic Center in plain view nearby. Is it worth dismissing or adding to their pain?
3) History– Why is it important to have battlefield memorials and wartime statues? Because it is part of our history as Americans and part of the legacy we pass on to our children. This demands of us the care and upkeep of our national landmarks, treasures and sacred ground. This is what keeps people from turning Gettysburg into a strip mall or putting an airport a Little Big Horn.
So who is right? Read the main arguments again. Taken individually, are any of them wrong? Are any of them outrageous or illogical? Do any of them show hatred or bigotry? No.
The fact is that many people in this debate are right, but too many people are unable to see above their own convictions. So many are completely focused on one argument that they cannot or refuse to see the validity of other points. Is it worth disrespecting countless people in order to uphold the value of “tolerance”? Probably not.
The point is that taken individually, each argument is technically right, but the debate requires all of the arguments to be weighed as a whole which means that some of the arguments for this situation are more right than others.
Possible Solution: Have the Cordoba Initiative look for other sites to use and at the same time have the Muslim leaders work with 9/11 families opposed to the project in order to facilitate healthy dialogue and pursue needed reconciliation.
Final Thoughts
The Cordoba House gets its name from the ancient Muslim capital of Cordoba, Spain where Muslims, Christians and Jews lived in relative peace and harmony for centuries during the Middle Ages. This reference to a time of understanding and cultural respect is essential to remember as both sides seek an amicable resolution.
La Mezquita de Córdoba
If you like history, read about the Great Mosque of Cordoba
Posted by commonsense85 
commonsense85
Truth and Common Sense 