Current Event Practice Post #1 with group

Name: Reybren, Chelsea, Harry, and Jimmy

Source: Looking at Islamic Center Debate, World Sees U.S., Thanasis Cambanis, The New York Times, 25 August 2010
Summary: They are discussing whether or not it is a good idea to have the Park51 location where it is. It is discussing whether or not Americans are tolerant of Islamic people. They talk about how there is more heated debate about building mosques outside of the United States in countries like France or Italy. They say that the pivotal issue of religion is that of tolerance and free speech. Some say that the Park51 being placed in its location shows tolerance, and we support free speech because we can't control what people say inside of the mosque. Other people argue that the United States is intolerant and racist.
Analysis: Because it is near to site of a major tragedy for the United States and it is related to the largest religion in the world. It shows how simple things are a really big deal because it relates to religion, and as much as you try to keep religion and politics separate it is very hard to do. It is interesting because it seemed that American public was past racial discrimination, but it is obvious that we are really not past the attack. It is also amazing to think that people in other countries debate more about Park51 than the people inside the United States. It seems that the United States are more tolerant than other countries who don't allow free speech or people to wear clothing of their religion.