The American media has created a story from nothing just by using the words "Ground Zero Mosque", protests and demonstrations, anger and hate have all been stirred thanks to the US media. Understandably passions are high, thousands died in the worst terrorist attack in American history. New York and the Twin Towers struck by terrorists - we all remember, well, how could we forget?
A few facts-
The location is not at "Ground Zero" its two blocks away in a former coat factory. Ground Zero cannot be seen from the location. (below)
Park51 will grow into a world-class community center, planned to include the following facilities:
•outstanding recreation spaces and fitness facilities (swimming pool, gym, basketball court)
•a 500-seat auditorium
•a restaurant and culinary school
•cultural amenities including exhibitions
•education programs
•a library, reading room and art studio
•childcare services
•a mosque, intended to be run separately from Park51 but open to and accessible to all members, visitors and our New York community
•a September 11th memorial and quiet contemplation space, open to all
There are also other religious centres closer to Ground Zero itself, yet there is no problem with them.
The subsequent protests have been angry and often hate filled, blaming a religion for the Twin Towers attack, not the16 extremists that did it. Anyone for the Mosque (their term) is anti-American despite the First Amendment of the US Constitution:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances"
It seems ignorance is bliss, and thanks to the American media in misreporting, or omitting, the facts there has been a surge in anti-Islamic feeling. This includes a taxi driver stabbed only last week for being a Muslim, and various protests and vandalism at existing Mosques throughout America.
The Media have been irresponsible and downright dangerous in their reporting, and the ugly side of American society has been exposed.
what happening in NY USA, shows how American media make Islam and terrorist, two faces of same coin. and that not helping peace around the world. Will American destroy there own freedom because of hate and fear made by media
ReplyDeletethank you
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Thanks for some sane analysis, Simon.
ReplyDeletePark51 has attracted much negative publicity in the US media. Here's my take on this issue:
http://diversesimilarities.blogspot.com/2010/09/park-51-to-be-or-not-to-be.html