Fact Check: “Ground Zero Mosque”
The so-called “Ground Zero mosque” has quickly become one of the most polarizing and debated issues of the day. Polls show a majority of Americans opposed, as it is offensive to some families of 9/11 victims, and is portrayed as violating the sanctity of this tragic site. (“Of all places, why here?” is the sentiment.) Its defenders retort that the project is unequivocally protected by freedom of religion, and that opponents are promoting an unjustified association between jihadists and Muslims in general.
So the battle lines are clear, and there is little sign that either side will concede. As is typical of religious/political debates, though, the fundamental facts are often misunderstood. This FAQ from the nonpartisan, non-profit website FactCheck.org attempts to provide clarity without taking sides, so hopefully this will be useful no matter your opinion (and especially if you don’t have one yet!)
A summary of its main points, though I recommend reading the whole thing:
Q: Is it a mosque?
A: It’s a community center with a mosque inside.
Q: Is it at Ground Zero?
A: It’s about a tenth of a mile, or two-minute walk, away.
Q: Are other mosques near Ground Zero?
A: One is four blocks away; another is 12 blocks away.
Q: Is it scheduled to open on 9/11/2011?
A: No; this appears to be unfounded speculation.
Q: Is Imam Rauf (the project leader) an anti-American radical?
A: No evidence was found for this claim. Controversial remarks of his (e.g. that America was partially to blame for 9/11) have been taken out of context.
Q: Where is the money coming from?
A: It isn’t yet known, as fundraising hasn’t actually started yet.
