Mosque at Ground Zero

[Eilonnwy]

There is a political and emotional controversy regarding an Islamic Center and Mosque that is going to be built near or at ground zero.

Many relatives of the 9/11 victims are outraged, believing it's an insult to the victims and a victory sign. Many reputable organizations came out against. When I first heard it I had a gut reaction much like theirs. However, I couldn't help but feel my gut reaction was wrong and luckily Mayor Bloomberg laid it all out perfectly.

We may not always agree with every one of our neighbors. That's life and it's part of living in such a diverse and dense city. But we also recognize that part of being a New Yorker is living with your neighbors in mutual respect and tolerance. It was exactly that spirit of openness and acceptance that was attacked on 9/11,

Let us not forget that Muslims were among those murdered on 9/11 and that our Muslim neighbors grieved with us as New Yorkers and as Americans. We would betray our values - and play into our enemies' hands - if we were to treat Muslims differently than anyone else. In fact, to cave to popular sentiment would be to hand a victory to the terrorists - and we should not stand for that.

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/03...69395.html
Includes video of the speech.

Essentially, I agree with the Mayor. I believe firmly in the 1st Amendment and as such I have no reason to stand against the Mosque being built.

What are your thoughts? Do you agree or disagree, and why?