Islamic center being built near Ground Zero in New York

In what is most likely to be a controversial move, near the site of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks will be built an Islamic center that will help Muslims from being discriminated against.

A group of Muslim investors have decided to purchase a small space near Ground Zero in New York and where the new world trade center complex will be built. The Muslim businessmen have decided to use that space, which was bought in July, to construct a multi-million dollar Islamic Cultural Center, according to the New York Times. The proposals for the Islamic center will help provide education, arts and recreation. However, the facility will not just be for Muslims but for all New Yorkers, says Soho Properties CEO Sharif el-Gamal who explained that this venture was in the works even before the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11. “This is a project that started before 9/11. This was something that started out first trying to establish a mosque because there is a very large congregation in lower Manhattan and we do not have a proper mosque in lower Manhattan.” He added, according to Press TV, “Being so close to Ground Zero is going to really make us more aware of other faiths.” Others view the center as a way to walk away from the discriminatory behavior that has been placed on the US Muslim community due to extremism across the globe. Daisy Kahn, Executive Director of the American Society for Muslim Advancement, said that she and the people apart of the project have received kind responses. Kahn believes this is the best way to enlighten others on her faith and reach New Yorkers in a whole new way. “It is a center that will number one amplify the voice of the Muslims who are against extremists ideologies but also want to promote an understanding and remove ignorance of Islam.” Kahn concluded, reports World Net Daily, “Only in New York City is this possible.” Furthermore, the business venture is supported by the city of New York. The mayor's director of the Office of Immigrant Affairs, Fatima Shama, said that Muslims have to have a strong commitment to rebuilding the city as any other New Yorker.