(3 Aug 2010) HEADLINE: New mosque near Ground Zero moves ahead
CAPTION: Plans for a mosque near Ground Zero took a big step forward Tuesday when a New York City commission denied landmark status to a building slated to be demolished. Opponents of the Islamic center say it insults 9/11 victims and families. Supporters hope it will bridge differences and bring the community together. (Aug. 3)
(New York)
NATS: "All in favor: Aye. Opposed."
With A unanimous vote - a plans for a new, and controversial, mosque near the World Trade Center Site took a big step forward Tuesday
NATS: "Disgrace, shame on you."
Despite vehement opposition - a New York commission ruled that the current building at the proposed mosque was not unique - and therefore could be torn down.
(Libby Ryan, Landmarks Preservation Commissioner)
"It is my opinion that 45-47 Park Place does not meet the standards of an individual New York City landmark."
The building was struck by debris from one of the planes that toppled the World Trade Center towers.
Mosque opponents say that alone makes it a landmark.
Others feel the project is insensitive to 9-11 families and disrespects the memory of those killed.
(Linda Rivera, Opposes Mosque)
" It should be all about our heroes, our victims, and our heroes, not about lifting up and glorifying Islam."
Local Muslim leaders want the center to be a space for moderate voices in their religion to be heard.
( Megan Putney/Program Director, Muslims Consultative Network)
"I think that this center has great potential in bringing several religions together and I feel that with its building, God willing, it will cause a lot of misconceptions to lessen."
Mayor Michael Bloomberg has been a staunch supporter of the project and says it pays tribute to first responders who died in the twin towers to protect religious freedom.
( Michael Bloomberg/New York City Mayor)
"Muslim are as much a part of our city and our county as the people of any faith and they are as welcome to worship in lower Manhattan as any other group."
The dispute's not quite over yet, a conservative group plans to fight the decision in court. Lee Powell, the Associated Press.
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