NYT oped mentioned by KO: Building on Faith By Feisal Abdul Rauf

[hlthe2b]

This is the op ed that Keith was discussing to appear in tomorrow's NYT. It discusses in his own words, the intent and reaction of Feisal Abdul Rauf to the NYC mosque controversy-- upon his return to the US from a state department-sponsored tour through the ME.

Worth reading, I think in full.
Op-Ed Contributor
Building on Faith
By Feisal Abdul Rauf
Published: September 7, 2010
--snip--

We have all been awed by how inflamed and emotional the issue of the proposed community center has become. The level of attention reflects the degree to which people care about the very American values under debate: recognition of the rights of others, tolerance and freedom of worship.

Many people wondered why I did not speak out more, and sooner, about this project. I felt that it would not be right to comment from abroad. It would be better if I addressed these issues once I returned home to America, and after I could confer with leaders of other faiths who have been deliberating with us over this project. My life’s work has been focused on building bridges between religious groups and never has that been as important as it is now.

We are proceeding with the community center, Cordoba House. More important, we are doing so with the support of the downtown community, government at all levels and leaders from across the religious spectrum, who will be our partners. I am convinced that it is the right thing to do for many reasons.

--snip--
President Obama and Mayor Michael Bloomberg both spoke out in support of our project. As I traveled overseas, I saw firsthand how their words and actions made a tremendous impact on the Muslim street and on Muslim leaders. It was striking: a Christian president and a Jewish mayor of New York supporting the rights of Muslims. Their statements sent a powerful message about what America stands for, and will be remembered as a milestone in improving American-Muslim relations.

More at the link:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/08/opinion/08mosque.html?_r=1&ref=opinion


But I will add one statement embedded within the piece:
"I know there will be interest in our financing, and so we will clearly identify all of our financial backers."

[Turborama]

1. K&R Thanks for finding this and sharing it

Looking forward to seeing Keith's piece you refer to.