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Live blog: Imam behind NYC Islamic center speaks
Editor's note: The imam who plans to build an Islamic center and mosque a few blocks from New York's ground zero spoke to CNN's Soledad O'Brien on "Larry King Live" Wednesday night. The following is a running log of what Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf discussed.
[Updated, 10:04 p.m.] O'Brien's last question was whether Rauf could unequivocally say that the center would be built at the currently planned location, a few blocks from ground zero.
"We certainly hope to build a Cordoba House vision of a multifaith center that will build relationships between Muslims and non-Muslims," he said.
[Updated, 9:59 p.m.] Rauf was asked about the pastor in Florida who plans to burn Qurans this weekend, on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
"I would plead with him to seriously consider what he is doing. It is going to feed into the radicals in the Muslim world," Rauf said.
He noted that U.S. Army Gen. David Petraeus has warned that the burning would endanger U.S. troops overseas.
"It's something which is not right to do on [those] grounds," Rauf said.
"We have freedom of speech, but with freedom comes responsibility. ... This is dangerous for our national security, but also it is the un-Christian thing to do," he added.
[Updated, 9:48 p.m.] When asked if the State Department was correct in saying Hamas is a terrorist organization, Rauf said: "I condemn everyone and anyone who commits acts of terrorism, and Hamas has committed acts of terrorism."
When asked what he thought about the 9/11 hijackers claiming they were doing what they did in the name of Islam, he said:
"That is a travesty. Just as the inquisitors in Spain were committing a travesty [against] the teachings of Jesus Christ. We do have people in our communities who [commit travesties] against Islam."
[Updated, 9:40 p.m.] O'Brien asked about his interview with CBS's "60 Minutes," shortly after the 9/11 attacks, in which he said the United States' policies "were an accessory to the crime."
O'Brien asked twice, but Rauf deflected the question.
"The work we have to do now is not about pointing fingers," he said, as part of his response.
[Updated, 9:32 p.m.] Rauf, the imam at the center of the controversial proposed Islamic community center and mosque in New York, said that "nothing is off the table" when asked whether he would consider moving the site.
"We are consulting ... various people about how to do this so that we negotiate the best and safest option."
[Updated, 9:28 p.m.] Rauf reiterated that the issue about what to do with the center going forward is important for national security.
"If we don't do this right, anger will explode in the Muslim world," Rauf said. "... If we don't handle this crisis correctly, it could become something very dangerous indeed."
He said moving the project to another location would strengthen Islamist radicals' ability to recruit followers and will increase violence against Americans.
He said again that if he knew ahead of time the controversy this would create, he wouldn't have made the plans to build the center at the currently planned site.
[Updated, 9:21 p.m.] Rauf said that if he knew how controversial the project would be, he "never would have done this - not have done something that would create more divisiveness."
However, he said he is convinced he shouldn't move the center now because "our national security now hinges on how we negotiate this, how we speak about it and what we do."
By that, he said, he means that if the controversy forces a move, "it means the radicals … will shape the discourse on both sides."
[Updated, 9:15 p.m.] Asked whether he was surprised by the controversy, Rauf said he was.
He pointed out that news of the plans to build the Islamic center and mosque was published in The New York Times in December, and "no one objected" at the time. He said the issue was politicized later.
[Updated, 9:13 p.m.] Asked why he wanted to build the center on the planned spot, Rauf noted he's already run a mosque about 10 blocks from ground zero for many years.
When asked about the feelings of families of 9/11 victims - such as those who might claim that their relative's remains have yet to be found at the site, Rauf said: "This is not that spot. This is not ground zero proper. No one's body is in that location."
"I'm very sensitive to those feelings," he said. "As an imam - as any religious person does - we have to minister to the pain and hurt ... in our communities. This is part of our intention."
He said he intends to put a 9/11 memorial in the center.
[Updated, 9:07 p.m.] O'Brien asked why Rauf was quiet during the recent uproar while he was overseas. He said wanted to wait until he got back to his home country, America.
"I didn’t think is was appropriate for me to speak about this while I was overseas," he said.
He said people in the Middle East "have been very concerned about this" issue.
"The concerns of people there are about both what this means in the United States, but what this means also for them, because the United States is the only global superpower today, and what happens here has an enormous impact over the rest of the world," he said.
[Original post, 8:54 p.m.] The imam who plans to build a community center and mosque within blocks of New York's ground zero will be interviewed live at 9 p.m. ET on CNN's "Larry King Live."
Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf will talk with CNN's Soledad O'Brien about his decision to move ahead with the plan. As the interview happens, this blog post will be updated with portions of what Rauf says.
Opponents of the plan say the center would be too close to the site of the 2001 terror attacks and is an affront to the memory of those who died in the al Qaeda strike. Backers cite, among other things, First Amendment rights and the need to express religious tolerance.
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I am a muslim, but I think that they should not build this community center because I think it would be a greater sign of "taking the high ground" if the imam just recognized the overwhelming feelings of Americans towards this. I think God would like a sign of compassion from his followers more than a community center.
That is refreshing to hear from a muslim. That is what american's would like to hear. More compassion and sincerity.
Did no one else get a chill down their spine when this man said that if he does not build at this location, American's abroad will be at greater danger from Islamic radicals? Does that not sound like a threat? If you stop me from building here, you will suffer. I beleive in religous freedom and the good at the heart of all religions, but he is doing his religion such a disservice by saying, since actions speak louder than words, that his religion does not care if it hurts the victims of 9/11. His religion is not sensitive to their still open wounds. He has a great opportunity to show that Islam does care about others who don't share the same beleif. Very insensitive decision that will only divide our different religions even further.
I agree with you. I believe in freedom in every aspect but to build roght it there it will be like putting salt in a very deep and hertful wound for the American people. Build one but not there.
This is the most intelligent and sensitive response that I have heard so far about this subject. You are exactly right, it IS taking the high road to take into consideration, the feelings of the majority of Americans. And it is not that we don't want it to be built, we just don't want it built THERE. It is Sacred Ground to us. Is that SO hard for the Imam to understand? If the Imam cannot understand compassion, and sensitivity, then maybe he should not be an Imam? Just wondering...
I agree. I think a mosque in this location is an intention, second slap in the face by a Muslim leader that harms Muslims and intentional inflames the pain of Americans. Little wonder it is so poorly received.
He said that because al-qaeda has been found saying how the anti-islamic sentiment that americans are showing toward the islamic faith with regard to this community center is inciting more hate against america and bolstering their terrorist recruiting. I.E. you are proving the terrorists correct when you have bigoted protests like this.
The Christians, Jews, Muslims are the one who make the proof overwhelming there is no God.. And yet all of you continue this nonsense of my god is better than yours.. How childish !
Freedom of religion!
We all have this right however shouldnt we respect the true meaning of this amendment rather than abuse it. The Imam knows the definition is broad and is willing to abuse it. Freedom of religion provides the right to any American to belieive in any God which I agree with. The main question is WHY would the Muslim community allow the Imam do something so insensitive to the Americna people. Remember Muslims are Americans also. 911 affected us all(Race & Religion) We have provided Muslims with a safe place(America) to worship their God. Please simply have enough respect to do what is right. DO WHAT IS RIGHT? The Imam will be laughing tonight as he replays this interview. NY Contractors please refuse to bid, Permiting please deny these permits in legal capacity. All this Imam is doing is creatiing hate in America. Example Slavery in the African American eyes. The Man abused his authority creating generations of hate for one race. Look at history it is obvious what the result of this mosque will be. Just my two sense.
so it ok then to burn the book in Florida???
Thought all along our fight was not with Islam and Muslims but with Islamic terrorists – this debate and all the protests sure feel like we are against them (all Muslims) - and please don't say they don't let us build Churches over there – we are much better than that and that is what sets us apart from most around the world.
So, it is OK to burn the book in Florida??????????????
THANK YOU
having seen the "light" as an atheist, i don't see much need for religious centers, mosques, temples, churches. but i do wonder if there is any distance from the wtc site that would be considered "acceptable" for this mosque. or is it just that xtains have indicted ALL muslims everywhere for 9-11. while letting themselves off the hook for oklahoma city. after all ,tim mcveigh was a nice, white xtian at one time.
I did not like the way Soledad acted during this interview! This is the only time I have complete disliked her. Clearly she had her own mind made up before the talk. I loved how he addressed the issue that it is the moderates that need to take control of the situation. It is only the radicals in the USA and those in the Muslim countries which are "feeding" on each other. With more moderates we will have more peace. LET them BUILD it there and more good will be done for our future. (I am not a Muslim).
Well, concerning the book burning, this is America, and they have the right to do that. There is no law against burning books. So, there we go with the freedoms, we have the freedom to burn books if we want. BUT, then again just as building this Islamist Community Center so near Ground Zero, a Sacred Ground will offend many Americans, so will burning the Quran offend many Muslims. But there is no law against offending anyone, and neither should there ever be...............!!!!!
As a Christian and a retired Firefighter who lost many friends and comrades that day and still many more are affected (both in Mind and Body) I think you are right-show the world Islam is not the Taliban by either moving the center or bulding one without any Mosque-May God show us all the way to restore peace in the world without violence
I agree. Take the higher ground and think of those who lost loved ones on 9/11....of all faiths. Don't need another mosque so close. As he stated he has a mosque 10 blocks away. That is close enough. And should not be at the location he proposes, and should not be called "Cordoba House".
The problem is those Americans against the Mosque are ignorant. There is no justification of not having a mosque in lower manhattan, there are several there, and the place they plan on expanding has long been an islamic prayer center. As a Muslim, i'm shocked you are siding with ignorance, not tolerance... Those Americans against the Mosque WRONGLY feel that 9/11 is tied to Islam, when it is not.
I am a Muslim and I think Islam should not pay the price for acts taken by a limited group of its followers. We cannot condemn Christianity for brutality committed by Serbs in Srebrenica. If we cannot have the Islamic community center near Ground Zero, then we should not have it anywhere in the USA. We are either guilty or not guilty. There is no space in between.
When he's asking what should we do a minute ago, don't sit there quiet! Tell hime to move the mosque to another location. Quibbling over what "sacred ground" means??? It's the cemetary where death occured – not the strip joints!
This guy is a piece of work.Tthe double talk is almost laughable if
It didn't cause so much pain for those who lost innocent family members. He is testing the water so to speak to see if Americans have any back bone. Build the Mosque, but not there. The DECEPTION is incredible, but he is only deceiving himself, and hurting moderate God fearing Muslims.
I think that Soledad is doing a great job on this Interview; I think the IMAM's idea is a great one but his choice of location is unacceptable. He is concerned about the Extremists taking control of the dialogue..... the majority of Americans are the only people he needs to listen to...... we do not want it there...... we believe that those very same Extremists will think they WON this argument and their conviction to kill the Infidel will be fanned into flame as well!! HE IS WRONG!
He's got an agenda to build that mosque. Yes, it is sacred ground. Pieces of the aircraft landed on that building. They're calling it Cordova House. He's desperate to build on that site. Look how he reacted when talking about the area not being sacred like it was nothing but a strip mall. If he didn't have an agenda he might back off, since there are two other mosques nearby and one only two blocks away. I doubt that many Christians or Jews are going to want to worship in his "community center." He needs to wake up and smell the coffee.
He used the example of the YMCA, however the YMCA isn't a place of worship, but a place where Christian men could come together. So build a place where Muslims, Christian and Jewish people can come together to share and work. Not a worship center but a faith center for all faiths to grow closer together.
I don't understand why we are making such a BIG deal about this issue. There are already 2 other Mosques that are more close to the "sacred" region. This center is 12 blocks away and even if it was a block away, it shouldn't matter. America was founded on religious freedom, so why can't we be fair and stop being xenophobic!!!
Not to mention, the hostess of the program is not letting her host answer and continues to say 72% of America doesn't want the Mosque build, well look at your own poll. She needs a lesson on how to be a neutral reporter and show courtesy to her guest. The worst interviewer I've ever came across.
So as i am watching this interview the only thing I can think about is how childish she is acting. If she would shut her fat mouth and listen to Imam maybe she would see the other side of the story. As a Christian and Military member I feel like freedom of religion is important and if we do not allow this building to be built we are basically saying that people who died for our freedom died in vain. As for this idiot trying to burn the Holy book of the muslim people, I dont ever get invlved in other peoples affairs but this is dangerous to military members and he should be stoped. My brothers in arms should not suffer for this guys ignorance.p
Xugos, may god bless you! You could not have summed this whole situation up any better. I am not a muslim, but some of my best friends are. I lost a friend in tha 9/11 attacks, but that does not make me hate my Muslim friends. May God fill all of our hearts with compassion, as we near the nine year anniversary of a terrible tragedy.
I think Soledad Obrien is doing a lousy job at interviewing the Imam. She is too emotionally involved and this reflects poorly on her as she doesn't seem objective enough as she should be as a journalist. Somewhat disappointing. I am christian and I think muslims have the right to construct the mosque wherever they choose. There are radicals in every religion and I wonder if christians had committed the atrocities of 9/11 I wonder if christianity would they be condemned in a similar fashion? This is America as someone said earlier. Land of the free.
Soledad was the wrong person for this story. The Imam was concise in his assessment. Soledad clearly had a Christian agenda. And I am speaking as a Catholic. Maybe Soledad and Anderson Cooper should focus their spotlight on why New Orleans is so Government dependent and can't make it on their own like the Red river valley of Minnnesota. And , no, these people are not rich, they are rural folks. They just don't scream in front of a camera...they handle it!!! Maybe Soledad and Anderson shoiud highlight them.
According to CNN correspondent Solidad that 70% of Americans are screaming against Muslim. What a big fat lie!
Imam is right that to understand the root of of radical terrorist Bin Laden began when the US hired this radical to fight against the Russians during cold war. The Americans media does not want to exposed the truth that the US contribute some of this hate, To discuss peace in the US the in the mid east, this are the issue that we need to address & to move forward in the future.
Just because you have the right....doesn't mean that what you do is the right thing to do!
I think that a lot of this debate would be a whole lot different if the Imam was backed by the religions that he says would have prayer space in thi Islamic center. He needs to get support from the separate Religious communities in order to make this peaceful and at all possible without causing more harm.
Thank you for saying that! It makes nothing but sense!
I agree that the gesture would be gracious, I don't think the Islamophobic people of America would get it. They would take it as a symbol of victory if the Imam backed down on his plans, not as any compassionate gesture, unfortunate as that is.
Rosa Parks could've moved to the back of the bus. It took her standing her ground to let people know she was an equal.
And the Imam brought up a good point... you call the area sacred ground, yet it is okay for a strip club to be there, but not a mosque. That demonstrates the lack of perspective of some people in this debate, who are no doubt hurting from a national tragedy and haven't figured out how to move on.
Solidad should keep up the pressure. Is record is not who he is. It is no different then one who is Christian who feels others must convert to their belief, and I am christian btw. He I feel wears his true conviction on his face when he is pressed. He doesn't what to plant a seed of peace, he just wants to plant a seed in a garden that makes a statement to those who thought it never could be done and to embolden the cause. Great observation Solidad when she sugested, Is this bridge building where groups are fighting with signs in the street? Good night and peace to all and their peaceful space.
Here is a man putting his head in the lion's mouth, and hoping for peace. From a Canadian point of view, where we are for peace, and personal freedoms, as long as they don't hurt anyone, I understand this viewpoint. Sadly, Americans, in the eyes of many nations, are somewhat toxic to the world. For a nation not wanting to sign a clean air treaty, and yet, pushing the rights of every man, woman and teen to cart a firearm, sends mixed messages. Who is the violent one? Maybe some of these nations are creating their own propaganda, and creating all this hatred, with their own hands. What if the world does end in Dec. 21, 2012 as predicted by many? Do you have a clear conscience?
The mosque there is wrong. It is an insult to Americans.
That said, I have a fair proposal:
A universal worship center – built BY and FOR all religions and denominations – to be shared by all.
This is a fair resolution – without slapping Americans in the face.
@Burns, think about that when a Muslim is cutting your head off, moron.
I don't buy any part of this guy's argument. I think he is threatening that there is a National Security issue from radicals. He does not want to take into account the sentiments of his fellow americans(assuming he is a true american as he says he is). I just cannot trust him and his motives.
I am non-denominational...I see that people are 'hearing' ONLY what they want to hear and cherry picking information. Soladad interrogated the man, not interviewed him. The COMMUNITY center should be built. People should be respected to live peacefully and not go sooooo overboard about the emotion of the situation.
Unfortunately, Soledad is angry and not impartial on this story or may be trying too hard not to be criticized by her peers... because generally I like her reporting. Sorry Soledad! You need to check your emotions at the door. So, how can 71% of Americans really have an issue with this basic Amercian right? Has everyone forgotten their American History? I have but this is pretty basic stuff and the reason why many of us were born here, because our ancestors left their country to seek religous freedom. Which, for me is important because religion is the source of too many wars and death. So, really, how can 71% of "us", my neighbors support this basic freedom?
I think that we definitely further peace with Islam. We need to understand that this location is not just for Islam, it is for Christians and Jews. Until we are better educated in all faiths we will never move forward and have the world peace that everyone wants. Please people you need to realize what has happened our past. Read your history books. Remember that we have churches in the middle east despite the fact that the Crusades took place. We have churches in Salem despite the witch hunts. We have churches across the US despite the attempted genocide of native americans. We can not wave the flag of religious freedom and spew hate for a particular religion. Have we forgotten how christians used to bomb Jewish synagogues under the false pretense that jews killed Jesus and did so in the name of god?
I am amazed that he actually uses the argument that if he doesn't build it there now it will cause more problems because it will incite more hostility from extremist Muslims of both sides. He says it is a security issue now. Well lets weigh the two sides. On one side we have the extremists flying planes into buildings, killing over 3000 and on the other we have people burning books.
Imam says if he moves the mosque from ground zero, this will encourage the radicals in islmaic world and they will say that islam is under attack....wat a sham!!!!.Even if we kiss the radicals' asses, they will still say that islam is under attack and continue to kill us
Xugos, I applaud your common snese in stating you think the new Islamic Center should not be built in the chosen place. I agree, too, that the destruction of life and property from theterrorist attack left a huge wound in the American heart. To built the center would be pouring salt into that wound. It seems Imam Raud is caught between a rock and a hard spot. He says he wants to do what is best!! That if he knew what the results of trying to build the Islamic Center near "Ground Zero" he would not have made the attempt. But now he must be careful to do the right thing. By that I aassume he means not to anger the Muslim world, especially those who hate America (and we know there are plenty of them). It matters not that over 71% of Americans do not want the Islamic Center near "Ground Zero" I believe it should be built farther, much farther away from the proposed location. Otherwise, he (Imam Raud) runs the risk of angering the nearly 300 million Americans who live in this country and have a say on where and how foriegn aide is spent. The dragon (America) is not sleeping, just cat napping. Recal Admiral Yomoto's words.
Mistyped – Meant to say extremists from both sides, not extremist Muslims from both sides.
I agree, taking the high road and moving this Center/Mosque would really ease the tensions every where. I am sad to say I do not feel the Imam has helped his cause with this interview.
What are the chances or challenges of me building a Catholic Church in most places of the Middle East. From what I understand those odds are low. In fact displaying a Christ Cross is not permitted. I do agree in freedom of religion. But it must be equal. Build your Mosque I would respect that. Let me speak of my Christain faith in your land. Give me the same Freedom
It's very telling how all these Christians are saying that the Muslim community should "take the higher ground." I guess you're taking the "lower ground," then? Instead of thinking and taking into consideration the fact that, oh, hey, these Muslims are not the same people involved in 9/11! And, in fact, even though their religion has the same label, and even though we just love to lump everything together into one label, and view things as black and white, they do not have the same extremist beliefs as the people involved in 9/11. And besides all that, it's not even on ground zero.
Do you really consider it Christ-like for you to tell someone else to take you and your feelings into consideration, and then not take the other side into consideration yourself? Aren't YOU supposed to take the higher ground as a Christian?
I'm a Christian, but we as Christians and as a nation have stepped back instead of going forward. So those people that are against the Mosque being built, do you also think a church shouldn't be built near the Federal building in Oklahama City because Timothy McVeigh was Christian?
I never thought about Muslim's in America until they caused so much violence here. We, as American's do not agree with this location for the Mosque. That is "OUR" right as American's. If I were in Afghanistan or Iraq I would have to live by their beliefs. I,personally, do not care who's face you save by your decision.Don't threaten violence because you cannot have your way. We got violence already at the Twin Towers!!!!What did we do or not do to their satisfaction to deserve that? We have bowed down enough and it's time we stood up for ourselves instead of all the rest of the world. GOD BLESS AMERICA
MR IMAM....GO BUILD YOUR MOSQUE IN SUDIA ARIBIA......AMARICA IS NOT FOR MUSLIMS AND WILL NEVER BE!!!!!!!!
If you oppose the mosque, you oppose freedom, simple as that, and you can move to the Middle East as far as I am concerned.
I keep hearing "bridge building", "tolerance" and "understanding" as underpinnings for building the "multi-religious" center at 51 place or anyplace for that matter. Agreed that after centuries of religious hatred and killing each other, we could use more of it.
As I watched the interview, the solution seems quite obvious to the issue at hand.........if the intentions are true, embrace the concept of a multi-religious coalition to FULLY participate in its development from funding to nuts and bolts.
You serve who you fear........so, are we to fear the statement that Americans will be in danger if we do not build this? To me, that was one of the worst statements he could have made. That will fuel people's emotions and cause even more drift between cultures. I have enjoyed reading everyone's comments, and respect and appreciate the comments made by the muslim person as well. Thank you for sharing. How wonderful of a world would this be if we all could be that respectful!
I am a muslim follower.It is truly sad to see the quran being burnt on saturday.Have muslims ever burned the bible?That is so clueless to be honest I am 11 years old and too see my culture go through this really hurts
I am a Muslim and I agree that why the need to build a mosque even two blocks from ground Zero? What happened on 9/11 was very sad and people who lost family will never forget it. New York is huge...pick another land/location!!
Imam says this National security threat, His mosque is not representing whole Muslim world. There are thousand followeres only thi splace. If this is the way we act then radical are spolied child then you have to surrender them. He is completely wrong.He is making National security issue.
This pecae building centers needs in Muslim world New york & America is so tolerent in world.
I am confused. So help me please. Does ground zero being sacred mean that it is sacred only for people of the christian faith? Therefore the mosque being built there becomes a desecration based on that premise? Doesn't that argument reek with bigotry? Or alternatively, since the 9/11 attackers were all terrorists who happen to be users of the muslim faith, or were they all muslims who happen to be terrorists? It seems to me that since Ground Zero is sacred to christians exclusively; not Hindus, Buddhists, Jews, Shiks, or any such then... christians should have priority rights over all else. They after all, as one commentator put it "were the founders of America" (paraphrasing). These arguments don't seem to make sense but then where does sense originate? From the heart or the brain?
If it's such a sign of peace making...BUILD THE MOSQUE NEXT TO THE PENTAGON...SEE IF THIS IS MIDDLE GROUND..AS IF THE US IS NOT ALREADY TOLERANT........................COME ON, MELTING POT OF THE WORLD, WORLD PEACE KEEPER.....ENOUGH IS ENOUGH......BUILD IT OVER THERE, DO NOT INSULT, AND PAIN THE ALREADY INJURED...HOW DARE HE TELL US WE SHOULD BE CAREFUL......ENOUGH!!!!
The Imam made very valid points that are unfortunately not being heard above the hysteria. The radicals, on all sides, are controlling the debate on this issue just as they are controlling the debate in American politics. The Imam is clearly a man of peace and a moderate voice in the Muslim world that needs to be heard. Americans equate Islam with violence and that is very sad. The reason for this is because the moderate voices are never heard. Here is a man who is a moderate voice but no one can hear him because of the shouting on all sides. We need to seek a middle ground on this and many other issues. I favor a multi-religion center sponsored by all 3 religions which would demonstrate to the world true American values – that all are welcome and all are free to worship as they choose.
How many people of Islam died in 911. Remember the Radical sect killed Muslims, people who choose to build this Mosque in defiance of them. Why is this an issue? Do 70% of Americans equate Islam with AL Qaeda? Makes me ashamed and you should be to.
I am Catholic and am saddened to see the level of righteous indignation and religious intolerance among my fellow Americans in this discussion. Frankly, I wish that all religious leaders would work together to heal this country of its religious intolerance and make an effort to return to the basic doctrine that they claim to hold dear–to love God, and love your neighbor as your self.
I can speak from my own religion when I say that far too many wars and violent bloodshed have been for the cause of defending a particular religious point of view or seeing to it that a point of view was eradicated from a culture. No matter what religion, I have yet to ever hear that any version of the Bible condones the burning of another religious doctrine or the defiling of another's religious symbols; the days of the Iconoclasts purging of religious symbols should remain in medieval history and should not be brought to the modern way of life. For a minister to claim to be a man of God and announce a plan for a burning of the Koran is an insult to all religions and to God himself.
It seems that too many of us have forgotten our own religous foundations and need to return to them if we are to have an accurate understanding of the foundation of or country. In this time of great economic, social, and global chaos, we cannot afford to use religion as an excuse for a bloodbath and should, instead, be using it as the source of our national comfort and healing.
Just because fake Muslims (they drank alcohol) bombed the trade center, that should not require Our American Muslims to suffer because of them. When Christian Klansmen terrorized and murdered my people they did not start a movement to demonize Christianity and ban churches. I am a Christian. Do you get it???
People want to understand the context of all this drama. Follow this link: http://rjohnsonartist.blogspot.com/2010/09/are-whites-exempt-from-guilt-by.html
How far away from ground zero would be O.K.?
Just because 71% of the people polled say they oppose the mosque is no reason it shouldn't be built. A very large % of Americans probably supported slavery at one time but that was not a good idea and having large support couldn't make it so. Sixty percent of Americans still believe Obama is a Muslim when it just is not so. That large numbers of people support something or oppose something says more about the power of the media to whip people into a frenzy than it does about what is right or wrong.
Let's remember that Muslims were also killed in 9-11 and many Muslims have also died in the military defense of this country. All Muslims should not be blamed for 9-11 any more than Christians are blamed for the acts of the Ku Klux Klan or the bombing of Oklahoma City. And, if they are not blamed then why would a mosque near the site cause any problems?
Does that mean that churchs are not allowed to be built in Iraq because U.S is a Christian country?
Who does this man think he is?? Stating “ He wants to build a Cordoba House vision of a multifaith center that will build relationships between Muslims and non-Muslims," -referring to the grand mosque at Cordoba, Spain built there to honor the moorish conquest of southern Europe! Does he think we Americans are so stupid we won’t make the connection?! This is an outrage.
He states America's national security depends on how it handles the controversy. That is a bold threat.
Who the hell cares if "The headlines in the Muslim world will be that Islam is under attack?"!!!
The politically correct left-wingers are eroding the foundations of this country..we'd better get a handle on it now, or we are doomed. Rauf repeatedly states it’s..."dangerous to our national security" if we mess with their plans to build
He's trying to incite fear to get his way—screw him. What's dangerous to national security is creating more safe havens for the destruction of our way of life…especially at our most revered locations!!
WE MUST WAKE UP AMERICANS—AND SPEAK UP.
From a man who says the purpose of his "Park51" is to promote peace ..he states, in 2005, that the U.S. had more Muslim blood on its hands than "al Qaeda has on its hands of innocent non-Muslims" and says the US was partially to blame for the attacks on 9/11 –that is unbelievable.
Al-Qaeda deserves every death we’ve imposed on them because they messed with us first!!
Rauf is not a promoter of peace- he is the exact opposite. A wolf in sheep’s clothing.
GOD HELP US ALL.
I agree with you Xugos. I do not think building the Mosque at that location will help relations with Muslems living in the US. I also think most conservative Muslims will understand why it might upset some individuals. I would also like to reply to KingM who said it didn't matter what you think because the issue is discrimination. On the contrary, it is whether people think it is right, wrong, or in poor taste to put the Mosque at that location. It is not discrimination. No one is telling Muslims they can't worship. They are requesting that the location of a new Mosque be relocated due to 1000's of Americans thinking it is disrespectful to the people that gave their life there. As for Imam Rauf's interview, I find it distrubing that he hasn't complied with the request to move the location. I do think his quote, " he is trying to be the bridge builder" is sincere but who is he being sensitive to? He states National Security as his biggest concern if he moves the Mosque. He needs to leave National Security to the experts and quit giving Radical Muslims validation by worrying about retribution. There is no reasoning with that kind of thinking and America does not give in to terrorists. Too many Americans have shed their blood defending this way of life.
Muslims need to stop apologizing or defending. This is their right. This is USA not Middle East. This is a secular country not a theocracy like Iran. If these Christian fundamentalist want to make USA a Christian theocratic state and Palin their Queen and go back to middle ages and burning witches and slaving people then they should say so and work for it. Don't be hypocritical.
This country made progress because of the separation of church and state. All religions are free in USA. This is just a propaganda for midterm and no one will remember after November about this. Politicians should be ashamed of them self. Same for the 70% who are listening to this 24×7 propaganda.
READ TO THE BOTTOM FOR QUOTE OF THE MONTH BY JAY LENO. IF YOU DON'T READ ANYTHING ELSE-VERY WELL STATED
TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED the 1930's, 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's!!
First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant.
They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.
Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.
We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking.
As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.
Riding in the back of a pickup on a warm day was always a special treat.
We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.
We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this.
We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank Kool-aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because,
WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!
We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on.
No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.
We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.
We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computer's, no Internet or chat rooms.......
WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!
We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.
We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.
We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with
sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.
We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!
Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!
The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law!
These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever!
The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.
We had freedom, failure, success and
responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!
If YOU are one of them? CONGRATULATIONS!
You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives for our own good.
While you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave (and lucky) their parents were.
Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?!
The quote of the month is by Jay Leno:
"With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?"
If you have a pulse you have a purpose.
Good job Soledad!
Thanks for trying to get to the truth. What I have been afraid to believe is that this mosque is about conquest and planting a trophy. This Iman will say or do anything to keep this location. Why? He is certainly trying to spin it his way. The solution is so simple, just move it. Everyone will appreciate this demonstration of respect. Respect is fundamental in building relations and creating dialog if that is what he claims he wants to do. On 911 a change in route saved me from being involved in that disaster. So many people in NY still suffer trauma from 911. It seems everyone lost at least one person they know. This is beyond just the families who have been affected. People lost jobs, businesses and a an incredible icon. First responders are still sick. Soledad made a good point in questioning forcing this solution. The only right thing to do is move it. Build your bridges a few blocks away.
To US Sailor, As much as we dislike the idea of the guy in Florida burning the Kran he has the right to do it and as a military member you will defend that right the same as we have defended someone right to burn the US Flag.
Did Iman speak of a threat? I took it as more of a fact. Propaganda is how they get there supporters.
I think that the conversations we're having here prove that we're incapable of getting along. The construction of a building or community center has no value beyond that of what it was created for. If the Muslims choose to construct a community center that services the Muslim community who are a part of this neighboorhood and were effected by 9/11 just like other Americans, then they should do so.
Personally, I look to a day when we will finally separate and quit pretending that this combination formula we're trying to run here in America really works. People here, myself included, think that the laws and opinions should only work to our favor, and have no respect for the rights and expressions of others. I know its painful and loved ones were lost in the 9/11 attack, but there is no need for us, a country of 300 million to shift so much attention to the construction of an Islamic community center in New York's ground zero.
Separately, Qua'ran burning is barbaric. I've heart America be referred to as a wilderness and this reinforces that thought and throws gasoline on the flames of opposing religious viewpoints. I don't think its a bad thing to voice your opposition to a plan, but when you call yourself intelligent, there is a standard of conduct that applies and you have to know how to eloquently express your opinion and if the argument is good enough, you'll be able to influence change. What this preacher is doing, burning Qua'ran's should really strike a chord in the black community who were for many years, and still now at times terrorized by the KKK who would burn crosses in their yards. Funny now that the same practices are in place, now turning their attention to Islam.
"crack" sound of gavel on podium. First order of business, what do we call these Arabs in our country? Arab-Americans, Islamic-Americans, Terrorists, extremists ?????
I deeply share your sentiment. I would also like to like to learn Iman's personal stance on the terrorists. Has he officially denounced their activities? Has he made it publicly clear that Osama and his gang are NOT embraced by the good Muslems? We need intelligent information in order to identify the source of the problem that will help us stop using a broad brush.
i am an american-a white guy-you have no idea how racist white americans are-imam rauf and the mosque supporters should never back down from the racism of these bigots that not only don't want the mosque but now would like him dead!there is no high ground by having to hide and run and cower from these american fascists.i personally am so sick of what i know about america that i know it will never change and i want out of this country.beware of your safety in this fascist racist country.racism towards muslims is just accepted.
I think this Imam knew exactly what he was doing when he ignited this conflict. It is morally wrong for the Mosque to be built near Ground Zero. It will always be seen as a monument to our enemies. I don't trust the Imam.
Correctamundo, bucko!
I agree! He could very easily build in a different location but 10 blocks away would not be nearly as offensive!
I have not heard one good justification of not building this cultural center there, except for passion. It is unamerican to deny ones right ot express their faith (legally.)
how is it a monument to the attacks? thats the most ignorant comment ive ever heard.. this is a community center being built 2 blocks away from the wtc... i live in NYC and u cant even see it from the wtc... theres a mosque just 4 blocks away from the wtc! oh btw there are 6 million muslims in the US some of which died on 9/11 so dont be ignorant and villainize all of them...
.. get your facts straight.. this center was on the front page of the NYT times months ago and no one cared.. so now politicians that want to get elected ignited this fiasco. Religion shouldn't be politicized as this has become..
Why is it insensitive to build a mosque near ground zero? Is it because most Americans think we are fighting a war on islam? I thought this was a war on terror, what does a mosque have to do with the attacks on 9/11. I'm 18, white, middle class, I have no idea why this is an issue, and that's not even touching on this thing I read about called "Freedom of Religion". I find it ridiculous that this wasn't even an issue and then some talking head on Fox News or CNN or MSNBC or whatever took a side on it and presented one of two viewpoints. That it is deeply hurtful and disrespectful toward Americans to build a mosque here or that we should allow it because of the afore mentioned Freedom of Religion. After these two points were made all the conservatives took the former viewpoint and all the liberals took the ladder and now we have all these people acting like they always felt this way. No, that's wrong, you were told how you felt about this issue and now you just repeat whatever the news told you to think, just like every other issue. This is why other countries think were ignorant.
RUSS ADMCHUCKANUT–{http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/26/nyregion/26muslim.html?scp=16&sq=mosque+world+trade+center&st=nyt) there have been protests from the families all along....GET YOUR FACTS RIGHT!!!
I agree, he looks evil to me...
This is about sensiitvity....to a religiously motivated attack on America....9/11 was by Muslims, for Muslims, and cheered in the Muslim world....if Feisal did not want to be controversial, why is he naming it the CORDOBA CENTER named after the Arab conquest of Christians in Spain??? THERE IS SUCH A THING AS ZONING and you can ZONE FOR GOOD TASTE regardless of your religious freedoms arguments...you just can't build a Church anywhere...for example, its probably not appropriate next to a school....
PJ that may still be found out but this imam should step away out of respect-whatever his true motive-notice he always says muslims before american-so do some Christian groups-whatever the case burning Koran's is not the answer -act like Christ and be a christian
Of course he knew that it would cause an outrage. HE HAS NOT GOTTEN ANY MONEY FOR THIS YET!!!!! Now that soooo many Americans find this reprehensible, he will go to IRAN and get all the money he wants. He is NOT a piece builder!
Don't trust him – look at his eyes!!! He smiles but his eyes say otherwise
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/23/nyregion/23lazio.html/
It is a travesty to have churches built anywhere in the US in the wake of the Salem witch hunts, the attempted genocide of the native americans, and the bombing of jewish synagogues......
Dear PJ, only idiots like him trust him!!!!
Didn't Garbo speak too, once upon a time?
Fry this idiot!
Stand with anybody that stands RIGHT. Stand with him while he is right and PART with him when he goes wrong." –Abraham Lincoln
Mr, Faisal said my deam is ” This Islamic cultural Center” will “bridge” Islamic with all other American cultures what bridge of paper?
I say Mr. Faisal polices will create the opposite more dislike to Islam and back to Lincoln “PART with him when he goes wrong." so I am longer in your side and one more against this Islamic center
You interpreted Lincoln words literally.
If you have read books related to Lincoln.
You may need to check his parable on Virgin Mary sculpture.
America is built on some fundamentals like freedom of religion which helped to make this country the greatest.
Lets have the wisdom to denounce Jihadists..but not Islam..Its a good religion which condemns violence and hatred.
Thank God we have American's with itchy trigger fingers. These people make me sick!
John said:
Lets have the wisdom to denounce Jihadists..but not Islam..Its a good religion which condemns violence and hatred.
Jihad means Holy War. All Muslims can become jihadists. Their religion is tied to their government and their laws are written in scripture, hadith and Sharia. If you break one of their laws (which by the way are not valid in the US), you get anger and calls for Holy War.
The Imam said:
"If we don't do this right, anger will explode in the Muslim world," Rauf said. "... If we don't handle this crisis correctly, it could become something very dangerous indeed."
But Islam is Peace right? To me it sounds like a threat.
Nothing in the American way of life can stop the building of the mosque and thousands more, but why give our tax dollars to support this effort? Why allow the lies to be spewed on national television. Larry King, I will not be watching.,
Tax dollars. That is a lie.
How about the tax dollars spent to send the guy who refuses to denounce Hamas as a terrorist organization on a first class tour of the Middle East?
who cares!!!
when someone says 'who cares?' – you should be deported...
al Qaeda strike ? Those buildings were also blown up. They had to have help to pull that off.
Offensive War to Spread Islam
remember a lot a Palestinians dancing in the streets at 5 in the afternoon on 9/11/2001. There were also reports from elsewhere around the world that showed no major lack of joy in the insta-mobs of muslims celebrating the events of 9/11. Obviously a lot of other muslims felt that this was a victory. Or were those in fact expressions of sympathetic grief which I mistakenly took to be scenes of jubilation? Apparently reading the emotions of mobs in the middle east is an extremely complicated matter
Maggi, some of the people dancing also had beards, maybe we should stop the sale of beard grooming products too. Also, I think some of them were brown skinned, perhaps it would also make sense to you for us to segregate people based on skin color, for example only whites should be allowed lower than 10th street? Obviously I'm being facetious, we tried segregating people based on color once before and it took us several hundred years to figure out that it was a bad idea. Persecution of religion is itself a form of terrorism. Americans should take the moral high ground and not demonise all muslims because of the actions of a few lunatics.
[Feisal A. Rauf, the iman who wants to build an Islamic center and mosque two blocks from Ground Zero, owns several investment properties in Hudson County and has had trouble keeping up with payments and tenant repairs, according a report in today's Record.
Too many of them here...get them out of this country
Larry who??
We must remember December 7, 1941 and September 11, 2001.
Come on man get real, it was the religion of Islam that contributed to 911 why would we even consider such a thing. We are in a spritual war no matter how you want to play it. each religion vowing for its place as the one and only. The Koran is pretty clear on its views of us christians and the Jews just as Iran wants Isreal of the face of the map. As Nancy would say, just say no to the Islamic Center which would give a voice to the enemy and a slap in the face to the victims of 911!
As a Muslim I find your comment ignorant and offensive. Muslims as a whole have no desire to wipe "Israel of the face of the earth". Ours is a religion of peace as a whole. You cannot punish the many for the actions of the few.
Gerald.. What is the penalty for apostasy?
David Brown:
People are radical- not religions. For centuries people have used religion to support their personal agendas. Look at history and you'll see its true. Oh but first you need to know the history of your own religion. Today, the KKK is represented by deep christian beliefs. I guess that's what christianity is about-huh? get with the program man- don't make comments about stuff you don't understand
This country made progress because of the separation of church and state. All religions are free in USA. This is just a propaganda for midterm and no one will remember after November about this. Politicians should be ashamed of them self. Same for the 70% who are listening to this 24×7 propaganda.
Yes there are ashes in this location you are not teeling the thru this canb not hill me
BLAH BLAH BLAH..
9/11 happened from Muslim EXTREMISTS similar to David Koresh's Christian EXTREMIST actions in Waco, TX. The key word is "Extremist" and "Extremists" hold prayer in backyards, basements, caves, halls.. real religious ppl pray in Mosques, Churches, Synagogues... There should be no concern about this place of worship. Don't believe me? Then you should think the same for regular churches and synagogues... which is ridiculous to do...
Religious Extremists in this country have never amassed power to target others. They may have amassed weapons and barricaded themselves – but they never published hateful rhetoric vowing to destroy anyone not of their faith. Crazy or extreme religion in the US cannot and should not be compared to Islamists who regard all non-muslims as "the infidel" and repeatedly vow to destroy them. Equating them is naive and proves you have a terrible short-sightedness about the real capabilities of muslim extremists, terrorists. Yes, that's terrorists, not "militant" and not "alleged".
nearlyclearly.. there are over 1 billlion Muslims in the world... nearly 1 /6th.... you'll be foolish to think that all Muslims think the same as the al queda extremists.... think i'm wrong? Look at us.. the U.S.A. has 312 million people (less than 1/3rd the population of MUSLIMS)... do AMERICANS ALL THINK ALIKE???? NO.......
How can you compare one nut American with the total terrorism through out the world that Islam does. Not even close! This Mosque will be a house terror to Christians that is why he is calling it Cordoba House after Cordoba Spain where Islam burned a Church and built a Mosque in a victory celebration
Easy.. one nut american (CHRISTIAN) kill hundreds... as one nut extreme muslim killed more... they're both the same...
How can you clump 1.3 billion Muslims with the same opinion? We're 1/3rd that population (312 million) and even WE AMERICANS CAN'T EVEN AGREE ON ONE THING!!!!
Don't agree with me? SEE??
Islam has no place in a free Christian society. We dont have honor killings or stone people in the name of our religion. It is like the term Muslim American just can't see it. This is a Christian society and not the dark ages which is where Islam is stuck in. The best thing is to close all Mosques and keep Islam where it belongs certainly not in America!
The reason the muslims want to build a mosque near Ground Zero is because its a sign for them of claiming victory..
i have never seen such fear mongering, You all are being played by thoes who would exploit our deepest darket fears for nothing but pure political gain. We are Americans, its not the American way to alienate a whole group of people for the actions of a evil few. Christians have bombed abortion clinics before and we dont ban churches from thoes areas, i fully understand the sensitivity of the issue but it doesnt make it wrong, we are Americans, lets not forget what that stands for.
I agree with you, George. Also naming it the "Cordoba House" emphasises that they are claiming victory over us. the Cordoba battle in Spain they built a mosque over the grounds where a Catholic church had stood.
My question is, if Muslims are not allowed to have community center within a few blocks from the WTC site, does that mean no Muslims are allowed to be in a two block radius of this site? Is there a no muslim zone, can muslims live, work, or eat in the WTC site?
I agree.
You are correct George – that is why he is calling it Cordoba House after Cordoba Spain where Islam burned a Christian church and built a Mosque in a Victory Celebration!
@ George – how do you justify Iraq war?
Perhaps this is a sign of "victory" to some short-sighted Muslims, and as well, to some frightened Americans. The thing I want to make clear to everyone reading these comments, is that the battle of Cordoba, Spain took place hundreds of years ago. And before the Muslims slaughtered the Christians, the Christians had slaughtered the Muslims who were there first! Americans have consistently spoken of the History that the Arabs cannot seem to forget, or forgive. Why do we want to dredge up something from history that we actually had no part in. There seems to be an abundance of historic cruelty to go around–the Dark Ages, the Inquisition, Witch Burning, the Diaspora of the Jews, the Holocaust, etc,etc. As forward-thinking, freedom loving people, why can't we just try to find our way forward! Even though I was raised in the Christian faith, I sometimes think a lot of poverty, war, and human injustice could be avoided by just living by the Golden Rule(which almost all religions have in some form or another).