the debate

PERSONAL OPINION

ground zero and the cultural center

this is a complicated issue.

it is important to acknowledge that many regard the space on and around ground zero as a cemetery and place of worship for the American people. the crater stands as a testament to the American spirit.

freedom of religion is an important right. but is that what we are really talking about?

on the one hand: the muslum community has a great opportunity to demonstrate a depth of understanding and compassion for the American people who still have an open wound. if another mutually agreeable location could be found, would that be acceptable? in the same way they expect us to tolerate their differences, it is important to respect their adoptive country and people.

on the other hand: this may only be about timing. an islamic cultural center might be an excellent eventual place to foster understanding near ground zero. but so soon?

the situation is not dissimilar to Pearl Harbor. as with mosques in New York, japanese culture and worship was already established in Hawaii prior to WWII, but a place of worship was not placed near Pearl Harbor until 25 or so years later.

and contrary to popular opinion about the cultural center at Nagasaki, that was placed there by UNESCO many years after the bombing of that city by the US. we at least had the good judgment not to offend the Japanese with a cultural center trying to seek forgiveness for an unforgiveable act.