NEW YORK—Almost nine years have passed since the Sept. 11 attacks by Islamic extremists that killed approximately 3,000 people. The victims lost their lives after two planes piloted by the terrorists crashed into the World Trade Center, collapsing both towers. Today, the city is considering plans for an Islamic building of worship two blocks from ground zero. The Epoch Times asked New Yorkers: What are your thoughts on the proposed mosque near ground zero?
Karen Davee, 23, Social Worker, Harlem
“I think they should do it. It’s a bad thing that the victims died. But it is going to be a place where people can go and find god. It’s been a long time since 9/11. We should all respect Muslims.”
“I think they should do it. It’s a bad thing that the victims died. But it is going to be a place where people can go and find god. It’s been a long time since 9/11. We should all respect Muslims.”
Fred C., 28, Artist, Bronx
“Of course something like this is going to be sensitive. I don’t see why we can’t have it. But I understand that the entire generation of New Yorkers is not going to forget about 9/11. I think building a mosque there is a productive and constructive way for us to embrace a new time. It’s a good thing.”
“Of course something like this is going to be sensitive. I don’t see why we can’t have it. But I understand that the entire generation of New Yorkers is not going to forget about 9/11. I think building a mosque there is a productive and constructive way for us to embrace a new time. It’s a good thing.”
Roman Shusterman, 29, Real Estate Worker and Political Activist, Brooklyn
“My understanding is that it is becoming a political issue that is dividing us. I have a liberal opinion on this. But if we are going to get attacks because of the building, then I’m against it. I’m against violence in general. It is a proactive act. I mean we are in the U.S., so the people should get to decide what they want. People should be mad at Bloomberg and the government if they don’t like it. Either way, Muslims should not be the target. We are against terrorists, not the religion.”
“My understanding is that it is becoming a political issue that is dividing us. I have a liberal opinion on this. But if we are going to get attacks because of the building, then I’m against it. I’m against violence in general. It is a proactive act. I mean we are in the U.S., so the people should get to decide what they want. People should be mad at Bloomberg and the government if they don’t like it. Either way, Muslims should not be the target. We are against terrorists, not the religion.”
Glenn Ashlee, 22, Song Writer, Harlem
“It’s not the Muslims´ fault. Terrorism has nothing to do with religion, though some people twisted the Islamic scriptures. I mean anything could be twisted.”
“It’s not the Muslims´ fault. Terrorism has nothing to do with religion, though some people twisted the Islamic scriptures. I mean anything could be twisted.”
Bill Stout, 40s, Chairman of an Animation Department, Upper West Side
“I heard it’s not just a mosque. It’s a multi-faith building that has a mosque in it. The idea of a multi-faith building brings people together. It promotes harmony among different religions. It is an act of the highest ability of humanity.”
“I heard it’s not just a mosque. It’s a multi-faith building that has a mosque in it. The idea of a multi-faith building brings people together. It promotes harmony among different religions. It is an act of the highest ability of humanity.”
Jermaine Jones, 36, Student, Brooklyn
“We should show denomination and respect for all faiths. Some people will definitely be angry. There are topics that can easily step on people´s toes, like politics, religions, and race.”
“We should show denomination and respect for all faiths. Some people will definitely be angry. There are topics that can easily step on people´s toes, like politics, religions, and race.”
Alfredo Melendez, 36, Instructor, Bronx
“Building any religious buildings in that location should be insensitive. I know there will be angry people, including victims and people who would speak up for them, and politicians who always need something to talk about.”
“Building any religious buildings in that location should be insensitive. I know there will be angry people, including victims and people who would speak up for them, and politicians who always need something to talk about.”
Friends Read Free