Is America Islamophobic?

The recent uproar over the Park51 project, commonly known as the “Ground Zero Mosque,” located two blocks from Ground Zero, has made me wonder this question.

In its most positive light, Park51 is a modest proposal. To call the project a mosque is not entirely accurate. The actual mosque makes up a small percentage of a greater cultural center welcome to people of all religions.

The project’s founders, Imam Faisal Abdul Rauf and wife Daisy Kahn, are trying to do a good thing. Located in the vicinity of liquor stores and down the street from a strip club, arguments that Park51 intrudes on sacred ground seem insignificant.

“We hope, through Park51, to accommodate the long-standing needs of the Muslims of lower Manhattan, and also contribute to the revitalization of these neighborhoods,” the project’s website http://www.blog.park51 said. “We are committed to working to improve New York City, to grow together, and to benefit America.”

More negative points of the debate however, come out a midst a string of terms like Ground Zero, terrorism and “Islamophobic.”

A TIME poll revealed the effect terms like these have had. It showed 61% of Americans oppose the project, leaving only 26% in favor and 13% indifferent.

If the project wins favor and is built, some believe the project will disrepect the families of those lost in 9/11.

I understand that this issue is sensitive, and it should be.

However, we must understand that the pain is felt by everyone. People of all races and religions were lost on 9/11, including Muslim Americans.

Further, to deny Muslim Americans religious freedom in this issue, breaks crucial bridges with the Muslim faith and deepens the wound that 9/11 created in this country.

If Park51 is not built, it will be a smack in the face for American values of freedom and will halt progress that has been made with Muslims, overseas and at home.

This issue is not the result of “Islamophobia”.

There is no such thing. Instead, America is allowing our fear of a minority of bad people, to rule how we treat the majority of good people.

The way you fall on this issue not only contributes to the definition of freedom in this country, it determines the way you treat people in your day to day life and in your community.