Ground Zero Issue

Any new construction on the site of ground zero was likely to be the subject of controversy. In this case the situation is even more complicated because of confusion about the proposed Park51 Project.

Many Americans do not really know what is the intended function of the building. Is it to be a mosque? A Muslim Community Centre? Even if officially it is to be simply a "non sectarian community, cultural and interfaith spiritual center along with a Muslim prayer area", in the American mind it will forever be a monument to an American tragedy. The building could easily become the focus of extreme anti-Islam activity. The risk is that is provokes or feeds a desire for revenge. This construction can not be the cause of future aggression.

Nevertheless, in general, Americans with their strong attachment to the idea of free speech expressed in their Constitution, do not argue about the right to built such a project. The President himself in a recent speech referred to Thomas Jefferson's statement that "all men shall be free to profess, and by argument to maintain, their opinions in matters of religion". The angry reaction to his quotation of this almost sacred words made people think Barack Obama was showing strong Muslim sympathies. He was later forced to explain his position in more detail. However freedom of religion is not the issue here. The main objection of reasonable Americans is the location of the acutely sensitive site, especially for those who lost loved ones in the 9/11 attack.

Above all we should be aware of the sensitivity of the location even thought it is 2 streets away from the Ground Zero. We should respect the victims of the atrocity which cost so many lives. We all know that the right of building it is there, but there's no doubt it is insensible for all the people who lost family members and friends.

In conclusion/finally I propose a multi-cultural centre for peace and reconciliation. Religions can come together to accommodate after collective violence. I think this is a reasonable solution to prevent any danger for more aggression.