ADL opposes World Trade Center mosque

NEW YORK (JTA) — The Anti-Defamation League has issued a statement opposing the building of a mosque near the World Trade Center memorial site.

The proposed construction of Cordoba House, a Muslim center at 45-47 Park Place, just two blocks form the former World Trade Center, has sparked a heated debate. Supporters of the plan accuse opponents of bigotry, slamming them for equating all Muslims with the 9/11 terrorists.

In its statement last Friday opposing the plan, the ADL called the bigotry that has surrounded the decision “unfair and wrong.” Nonetheless the ADL opposes the construction, it says, out of sensitivity to those who had family members killed on 9/11.

“There are understandably strong passions and keen sensitivities surrounding the World Trade Center site. We are ever mindful of the tragedy which befell our nation there, the pain we all still feel — and especially the anguish of the families and friends of those who were killed on September 11, 2001,” the statement reads. “The controversy which has emerged regarding the building of an Islamic Center at this location is counterproductive to the healing process. Therefore, under these unique circumstances, we believe the City of New York would be better served if an alternative location could be found."

The ADL statement also evinces concern about the motivation behind the proposed mosque.

“In recommending that a different location be found for the Islamic Center, we are mindful that some legitimate questions have been raised about who is providing the funding to build it, and what connections, if any, its leaders might have with groups whose ideologies stand in contradiction to our shared values," it said.

"These questions deserve a response, and we hope those backing the project will be transparent and forthcoming. But regardless of how they respond, the issue at stake is a broader one.” 

The ADL in the past also has opposed the construction of a convent at Auschwitz.