If the "Ground Zero Mosque" is Denied, Let's Apply Precedent to All Religious Construction
My previous position has been to state, in no uncertain terms, that it's despicable for those who so claim to support religion and religious liberty to be so quick to attack the GZM. Now, I'm rethinking that, and asking if it could actually be a precedent to be used against all religious construction.
The GZM as proposed, after all, is more a community center than a full-blown mosque. Much more akin to a YMCA with a prayer room than a worship center. So if that can be opposed on the grounds that it is offensive to some who see it as representative of fundamentalist fervor, could not the same standard be applied elsewhere?
For example, should a church be allowed to be built within a certain distance of an abortion clinic? Christians bomb them and murder doctors, right?
How about banning any religious construction near a public school? Can't have fundamentalists of any stripe influencing children, now can we?
If a church preaches against homosexuality, can it be allowed to exist close to where same-sex couples live? Or can it be near a gay bar?
What about pedophilia? Should there be a determined distance religions tainted by sex scandals must be required to stay away from parks and schools?
Talk about a slippery slope! When the public asks for restrictions to be placed on religious observance or construction because of what some members of that faith have done, all bets are off. Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing all religious institutions be zoned maybe the same as strip clubs - away from schools, etc.
Can we use the ignorance and bellicose rhetoric of the religious right against them, to make America less under religious influence?
Sure, don't allow the "Ground Zero Mosque." Restrict zoning for all religious building, make them all prove value to the community, and impose appropriate taxes!
Published by Jeff Musall
Jeff Musall has a passion for writing, a knack for frank and informed expression, and a desire to engage the minds of readers. He is an avid sports fan across the board and loves good competitions. His work... View profile
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18 Comments
Post a CommentSo I'm wondering, if this Muslim religious center and mosque - which has been peacefully operating and is only asking for permits to expand - is a couple blocks from Ground Zero, and people are protesting, how far away from Ground Zero should it be? Three blocks? Two Miles? 200 miles? And too, what kinds of buildings & businesses are there now, being built and being planned? I can't think of a better tribute than having a Muslim religious center and mosque near Ground Zero to signify unity among Americans. It would be a clear sign to terrorists around the world that we encourage and respect the celebration of all religions. 9/11 was all about terrifying the country and dividing us. Sadly, it appears as if we are turning against ourselves and their strategy may be working....
"Prove value to the community" - I like it.
All valid points as far as I'm concerned.
Yep. I keep wondering why they're allowing schools near Catholic churches, with all the dodgy priests in the news lately. Oh and you got a right wing nut leaving you comments. They're always good for a few page views, LOL.
HUZZAH! Tweeting this one...
One more thing… The Republicans will win in a landslide 2010 – but the fall of the Dem’s will happen in 2012 - The Iran Crisis issue (again) http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/meast/07/29/iran.hikers/index.html - Those 3 hikers will be the issue prior to the 2012 election – and Obama will be in the same position as Carter was… The Mosque is now the issue – 2 wks ago it was illegals….
Another issue that I thought I would mention – over the years, I have watched many Lefties protest, with a more or less “In your face†attitude – What you are seeing now is a new generation of “In your Face†– a push back of the “YOU MUST ACCEPT†everything or you are sexist, racist etc. The Mosque is another example of this – I’m amazed that Jeff didn’t use the cliché “racist†I guess he’s realizing it’s not working anymore….
You Lefties just don’t get it – It is not a Constitutional issue. It’s offensive to many Americans. Think about it this way, Let’s say the zoning, building, and permits were approved for a “Gun Store†close to the Columbine shooting. “YOU†Lefties would be arguing that it was distasteful and offensive – Michael Moore would be leading the way. The truth is “BOTH are offensive and distastefulâ€
Great work. The people who are really "spitting on the graves" of the victims of the WTC attack are those who are opposing religious freedom - that sounds like something Osama bin Ladin would support.
I agree with you, Jeff. Hold all churches to the same rules, and let's have them pay their taxes. I don't like paying more so religious people can have homes and businesses which a tax free.