While I am a firm believer of freedom of religion in this country, I am not sure that locating a mosque near Ground Zero is such a good idea. The location alone may provoke certain segments of our population (and others) in both rational and non-rational ways, and I truly believe that the mosque should be moved for the safety of not only all parties involved or protesting, but for area businesses and residents as well. But let me make this clear – I am NOT saying that those who visit the mosque will be bad people, but instead I just feel that its location is just too close to what will be forever linked with one of America’s tragic events. After all, there isn’t a sushi stand on top of Pearl Harbor’s Arizona Memorial.
Pat Gesualdo, the CEO of Drums and Disabilities (DAD), a New Jersey-based nonprofit organization, wants to set up a New York City center to assist those with disabilities -- such as autism and Tourette's Syndrome -- fine-tune their motor skills. Mr. Gesualdo envisions a Manhattan location near Ground Zero that would help provide free physical therapy and emotional support services to wounded troops, first responders and children of 9/11 victims. I’ve known Pat for quite a few years, and his heart has always been in the right place. In my opinion, this is a great cause that deserves more publicity.
Read Parsippany NJ group wants to set up therapy center at Ground Zero and nix mosque.
*Parts of this article have been “borrowed” from The DailyRecord.com, and only because I couldn’t have said it better myself!
Related articles:
NJ nonprofit wants to replace Ground Zero mosque with 9/11 rehab center (NYPost.com).
