Ground Zero Mosque Controversy -- Benzquaia Edwards

The issue surrounding the Ground Zero Mosque is one that the media takes out of context. The primary concern with constructing the edifice is that it will be two blocks from where the tragic 9-11 took place and will also be a place for members of the Muslim community to pray and fellowship. However, the “Ground Zero Mosque” is actually a community center for the general public that existed before 9-11 even occurred; the activities or services that are available will not only be for the Muslim community. Although many people do not support the new location of the building, it is unconstitutional to prevent its reconstruction.

Contrarily, I see no crisis is rebuilding the community center two blocks from Ground Zero. The true issue is the ignorance of stereotyping and negatively associating the radical actions of one group of individuals with its entire ethnic or religious community. The individuals that were part of the community center in its old location will more than likely still use its services in its new location. If there were no apprehensions about those Muslims and the community center before, it doesn’t make sense for them to be created simply because they are relocating near a significant federal site.

The way stereotypes and illogical judgments strongly influence the perceptions of different cultures is a way of older generations. The upcoming individuals of the nation are more open-minded and are encouraging change, so we see no problem in things such as the reconstruction of the Ground Zero Mosque. Instead of creating a dilemma, it is better to look at the situation in a positive light and use this as a way to reunite the Muslim community with the nation.