Muslims ask Pawlenty to retract Statement Against NY Islamic Center

Leaders of over 12 Minnesota Muslim organizations and mosques on Monday, Aug. 9, called on Governor Tim Pawlenty to retract a statement he made in opposition to a New York Muslim cultural center. His comments appeared to link all Muslims and the Islamic faith to the terrorist attacks of 9/11.

On Friday, Aug. 6, Pawlenty told Real Clear Politics, "I'm strongly opposed to the idea of putting a mosque anywhere near Ground Zero—I think it's inappropriate. I believe that 3,000 of our fellow innocent citizens were killed in that area, and some ways from a patriotic standpoint, it's hallowed ground, it's sacred ground, and we should respect that. We shouldn't have images or activities that degrade or disrespect that in any way."

In a letter sent to Pawlenty's office, the Muslim leaders urged the governor to understand that the 9/11 terrorist attacks were a tragedy for all Americans, including Muslims. The letter noted that dozens of American Muslims were killed in the attacks.

"Our governor has engaged in collective guilt by saying that all Muslim activities and images anywhere near Ground Zero are degrading and disrespectful," said CAIR-MN Civil Rights Director Taneeza Islam. "All Americans, including Muslims, should seek to help heal our society and avoid statements that create division or distrust."
Ms Islam added that the stated goal of the New York Muslim cultural center is to assist in that healing process by promoting prayer, unity and mutual understanding.
The Muslim leaders also urged Pawlenty to respect the First Amendment and America's longstanding history of religious tolerance.

"The underlying issue here is freedom of religion," said Somali Action Alliance Executive Director Hashi Shafi. "For Governor Pawlenty to deny Muslims their right to build a cultural or religious center is both unpatriotic and unconstitutional." Shafi commended New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg on his Aug. 3 speech in support of religious freedom.