Democracy Now: Religious, Civic Groups Form NY Coalition to Back Islamic Center
News of the attack came as a new coalition was launched to support the proposed Islamic cultural center. New York Neighbors for American Values is made up of over forty organizations including Muslim, Jewish and Christian groups. Donna Marsh O’Connor, a member of September 11th Families for Peace Tomorrows whose daughter was killed on 9/11, pledged her group’s support.
Donna Marsh O’Connor: “There are many 9/11 family members who, while we understand the pain caused by some family members speaking against this, that we, 100 percent, fully support the Islamic cultural center in New York City two-and-a-half blocks and around the corner from Ground Zero.”
Imam Abdur-Rashid of the Islamic and Leadership Council said the controversy around the site is fueling anti-Muslim acts nationwide.
Imam Abdur-Rashid: “There have been attacks on masjids. There have been vandalizations. There have been physical assaults on individuals. This thing is escalating because of the dialogue and because somber minds are not prevailing in this country. And so, we’re concerned about it, but our silence for so long has been our consent, you know, that they can do whatever they want. But we’re not going to be silent no more.”
Aware and Outraged 