The Manhattan tolerance test

Independent 

The first two problems with the ground zero mosque controversy is that it is not actually about a mosque and it is not actually in ground zero. Ground zero refers to the site where the Twin Towers stood – a large area, fenced off, currently undergoing a lengthy reconstruction – one I viewed myself when I visited New York just a couple of months ago. The building in question is not at that site. It is not even in the same block as that site. It is in fact a whole two city blocks away which would likely take a good ten minute walk. On the way you would pass a betting shop, numerous grocery stores, a strip club and several fast food outlets. Hallowed ground this is not, so let’s dispense with that particular hyperbole for a start. The next exaggeration is the idea that we are talking about a mosque. What is being proposed is a community centre for Muslims and non-Muslims to visit and the plans include a gym, food halls and a swimming pool. I don’t know many mosques that incorporate swimming pools. There is a prayer area within the proposed centre but that is as part of a wider community centre.