Ground Zero Mosque

Park51

Company type	Real estate development project
Industry	Cultural center, Religious center, Real estate
Founded	July 2009 (2009-07)
Founder	Sharif El-Gamal
Headquarters	New York City , United States
Area served	Lower Manhattan, New York City
Key people	Sharif El-Gamal (Chairman and CEO), Feisal Abdul Rauf (Imam)
Products	Islamic cultural center, mosque, condominiums

Park51, originally called Cordoba House, was envisioned as a 13-story Islamic cultural center and mosque located in Lower Manhattan, New York City. The developers intended to encourage interfaith communication. Situated just two blocks away from the World Trade Center site targeted in the September 11 attacks, the project became highly contentious and was popularly referred to as the "Ground Zero mosque," becoming a prominent issue during the 2010 U.S. election cycle through a coordinated grassroots-style campaign.

The initiative proposed replacing a damaged Italianate building dating back to the 1850s. Designed by Michel Abboud, principal of SOMA Architects, the building was planned to blend modern design with Islamic architectural influences. Facilities included a 500-seat auditorium, theater, performing arts venue, fitness center, swimming pool, basketball court, childcare facilities, bookstore, culinary school, art studio, food court, and a memorial dedicated to 9/11 victims. The prayer hall was designed to hold between 1,000 and 2,000 worshippers.

In September 2011, an interim Islamic center spanning 4,000 square feet opened at the Park51 location. By mid-2014, development plans shifted toward constructing a three-story museum with prayer space alongside condominiums at addresses 49–51 Park Place. In September 2015, the property owner revealed intentions for a 70-story luxury condominium tower reaching 667 feet. By May 2016, financing had been secured for a 43-story condominium project accompanied by an adjacent Islamic cultural museum.

Construction of the condominium tower known as 45 Park Place commenced in 2017 and approached completion by 2019. As of , no construction had begun on the Islamic cultural center at 51 Park Place, which is planned to encompass 16,000 square feet and rise to a height of 71 feet.

Background

The initial announcement of "Cordoba House" appeared in The New York Times in December 2009 regarding a site already utilized for Muslim worship. Early reactions were limited but included some favorable commentary from libertarian voices. The proposal underwent review by Manhattan Community Board 1 in May 2010, attracting widespread national media coverage. Organizers described the center as "a platform for multi-faith dialogue," aiming to promote peace, tolerance, and understanding within local communities and on a broader scale. The concept was inspired by the Manhattan Jewish Community Center located at 76th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. The plan ignited heated debate across the United States.

The original Cordoba House became a lightning rod for controversy fueled by well-funded groups engaged in what some termed misinformation campaigns, warning about alleged radical Islamist threats. Conservative activists Pamela Geller and Robert B. Spencer—founders of Stop Islamization of America—led efforts branding it as the "Ground Zero mosque," which spurred protests involving millions. Conservative media outlets that had previously participated in post-9/11 opposition also contributed to resistance against the project.

Following the Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United in 2010—which allowed unlimited political spending by special interest groups without coordination with campaigns,—the campaign opposing Park51 represented an early example of dark money's influence in U.S. elections. Advocates for Park51 argued that critics wrongly equated Islam with extremist groups responsible for attacks on the World Trade Center. The New York Times highlighted that Muslim religious spaces existed at the World Trade Center prior to September 11.

Naming of the project

Originally, the initiative was called Cordoba House but was later renamed Park51, reflecting its location on Park Place. The project's Imam sometimes used the name "Cordoba House," whereas the Park51 website distinguished Park51 as the community center and Cordoba House as its "interfaith and religious segment".

According to the Cordoba Initiative, the term "Cordoba House" alludes to Córdoba, Spain, during the 8th to 11th centuries, symbolizing harmonious coexistence between Muslims, Christians, and Jews. The Economist highlighted that the name was selected to represent a shared educational hub for these religions. Nonetheless, detractors such as Newt Gingrich described it as "a deliberately insulting term," associating it with Muslim conquest due to historical mosque conversions in Córdoba. Raymond Ibrahim, a noted critic of Islam, contended that both the project and its name suggested Islamic domination rather than interfaith dialogue, perceiving mosques as emblems of territorial control. Opponents argued that mosques symbolize conquest of land.

The term "Ground Zero mosque" is frequently applied to Park51. Given that it is neither situated on the World Trade Center site nor functions primarily as a mosque, some media outlets recommended alternative descriptions such as "mosque near WTC site" or "Islamic center close to WTC". The Cordoba Initiative stresses that it is not exclusively a mosque. Writers like Anushay Hossain (The Huffington Post) and Jean Marbella (The Baltimore Sun) emphasized that it serves as an Islamic community center more comparable to a YMCA than a conventional place of worship.

Before 2001

Constructed between 1857 and 1858 at 45–47 Park Place, this building exhibits Palazzo style architecture and was designed by Daniel D. Badger for a leading New York shipping company. Its Italian palazzo design conveyed European elegance and economic prosperity, characteristic of "store and loft" structures within Lower Manhattan’s dry goods warehouse district.

During the 1980s initiative to establish a historic district in Tribeca, this building was among several freestanding structures proposed—but ultimately not designated—as individual landmarks. Following public hearings in 1989, it was placed on a "calendared" list without receiving landmark status. By August 2010, out of 29 buildings nominated for landmark designation in 1989—including 45–47 Park Place—twenty-three had achieved landmark status while six were still pending; this building remained among those pending. At that time, New York City had more than 11,000 landmarked properties.

Prior to the September 11 attacks, Muslims had an established presence in Lower Manhattan, with at least two mosques located near the World Trade Center and several Muslim prayer spaces inside its buildings.

September 11, 2001, attacks

The five-story structure at 45–47 Park Place, situated between West Broadway and Church Street, sustained significant damage during the September 11 attacks. When United Airlines Flight 175 collided with the South Tower of the World Trade Center, components of the aircraft’s landing gear, engine, and fuselage passed through the tower’s north side and penetrated the roof and two floors of 45–47 Park Place. This caused the destruction of three floor beams and weakened the building’s internal framework. Although initial external inspections did not detect the damage, it was later uncovered during internal evaluations.

In April 2013, the New York Police Department revealed the discovery of a large airplane part measuring wide and long, bearing a Boeing identification number, lodged in a narrow alley between 51 Park and 50 Murray Street. Originally believed to be landing gear, Boeing later confirmed it as a trailing edge flap actuation support component from a Boeing 767—the aircraft type involved in both World Trade Center crashes. The part was documented in photographs alongside a rope used by an officer to extract its identification number. However, Boeing was unable to determine which specific plane it came from.

2001–2009

The property at 45–47 Park Place, located approximately two blocks north of the World Trade Center site, was owned by Stephen Pomerantz and Kukiko Mitani and leased to the Burlington Coat Factory. Mitani made several attempts over the years to sell the building, at one point setting an asking price of $18 million. The space remained unoccupied until its acquisition in July 2009. Following the purchase, it temporarily served as additional prayer space accommodating up to 450 Muslims, with services conducted by Feisal Abdul Rauf, an Imam affiliated with the al-Farah mosque in nearby TriBeCa.

Purchase and investors

In July 2009, real estate developer Soho Properties purchased 45–47 Park Place for $4.85 million in cash. Sharif El-Gamal, Chairman and CEO of Soho Properties, initially envisioned constructing condominiums but was convinced by Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf to instead create a community center featuring prayer facilities. El-Gamal’s business associate is Nour Mousa, who is related as nephew to Amr Moussa, Secretary General of the Arab League.

Among the investors were nonprofit organizations including the Cordoba Initiative—a tax-exempt foundation with assets totaling $20,000—and the American Society for Muslim Advancement (ASMA). At that time, Rauf served as founder, CEO, and Executive Director of both entities; his wife Daisy Khan held the position of ASMA Executive Director. Between 2004 and 2008, Cordoba Initiative raised under $100,000. Both groups operated from a shared office space in New York.

Their vision involved developing a $100 million community center inspired by New York City’s Jewish Community Centers and YMCAs, partnering with El-Gamal as co-developer.

The neighboring half-block at 49–51 Park Place remained under ownership of utility company Con Edison (Con Ed). Soho Properties paid $700,000 to take over a lease costing $33,000 annually on this former substation site, intending to integrate both properties by removing shared walls for internal connectivity. The lease extends through 2071. In February 2010, El-Gamal informed Con Ed of his plan to exercise a purchase option valued between $10 million and $20 million; he indicated that cost "is not an issue." This transaction required approval from the New York Public Service Commission, which includes a five-member board appointed by the New York governor’s office.

Investors viewed the site's closeness to the World Trade Center ruins as a significant advantage. Rauf highlighted that the location “sends the opposite statement to what happened on 9/11” and sought “to push back against the extremists.”

Planned facilities

While commonly referred to as a mosque, the Initiative’s official blog described the center as a community hub featuring a prayer area, comparing it to institutions such as the YMCA or Jewish Community Center. The inclusion of amenities like a restaurant and a performance venue was highlighted to differentiate it from a conventional mosque. Daisy Khan, who partners with Imam Rauf, stressed the importance of labeling it a "prayer space" to enable regulated access beyond solely Muslim worshippers.

Initially, the official website indicated that a mosque would operate independently but remain open to everyone; by September 2010, terminology had shifted exclusively to "prayer space." Sharif el-Gamal, the primary developer, endorsed incorporating a mosque to address the spiritual needs of New York’s Muslim population.

The prayer area was planned to occupy two floors within the 13-story structure. Other proposed features included a 500-seat auditorium, theater, performing arts center, fitness center, swimming pool, basketball court, childcare facilities, art galleries, bookstore, culinary school, and a halal food court.

El-Gamal envisioned an environmentally sustainable building with a glass exterior. The project entailed demolishing two damaged structures located at 45–47 Park Place and Broadway and replacing them with a contemporary 100,000-square-foot glass and steel edifice at 45–51 Park Place. Some commentators speculated about scheduling groundbreaking or opening ceremonies to coincide with 9/11 anniversaries; Khan denied intentional alignment but acknowledged that breaking ground near the 10th anniversary was possible.

Khan estimated that once completed, Friday prayers would attract between 1,000 and 2,000 Muslims. She characterized the initiative as fostering improved relations between Islam and American society while countering extremist ideologies. Emphasizing that many Muslims worldwide suffer under extremism, Khan portrayed the center as a platform amplifying moderate Muslim voices and contributing positively to Lower Manhattan’s revitalization.

Community board advisory vote

On May 25, 2010, the local community board gave conditional approval to parts of the Cordoba House proposal through a non-binding advisory vote of 29 in favor, one opposed, and ten abstentions. The endorsement specifically concerned "the important community facilities [the project] will provide," with the board explicitly refraining from taking any stance on religious elements or those linked to the Cordoba Initiative or Cordoba House Project. Board chairwoman Julie Menin advocated for removing references to the building as both a mosque and an interfaith center from an earlier draft, asserting that evaluating religious institution siting was not within city jurisdiction.

The meeting was marked by tension. Some supporters were Muslims who had lost relatives in the attacks and faced protests. While certain non-Muslim family members of 9/11 victims supported the project, others opposed it on grounds of perceived insensitivity regarding its location.

Landmark status declined and litigation

As controversy grew, New York City's Landmarks Preservation Commission revisited an earlier landmark application from the 1980s but on August 3, 2010, voted unanimously (9–0) against designating the building as a landmark. This ruling permitted demolition and construction of the new Cordoba House facility.

The following day, Timothy Brown—a firefighter who responded to 9/11—initiated legal action in New York State Supreme Court seeking to overturn the Commission’s decision. He described 45–47 Park Place as "a fine example of Italian Renaissance-inspired palazzi" dating back to the mid-19th century. The lawsuit was filed on his behalf by the American Center for Law and Justice, a conservative public interest organization.

On July 10, 2011, Justice Paul G. Feinman dismissed Brown’s lawsuit, determining that although Brown had a significant interest in preservation efforts, he lacked legal standing. Adam Leitman Bailey, who represented the Islamic center’s developer pro bono, celebrated this outcome as "a victory for America," underscoring constitutional protections despite opposition. Brown’s attorney argued that individuals who risked their lives at Ground Zero should be granted standing to protect its historic landmarks.

Updated proposals

On September 21, 2011, Park51 welcomed the public within a refurbished 4,000 ft² area inside the Burlington Coat Factory building, with intentions to replace the structure "within several years." Visitors experienced the "NYChildren" exhibit featuring 160 portraits of immigrant children, accompanied by a small prayer room located in the basement.

In August 2011, developer Sharif El-Gamal shifted to a "more measured, thoughtful, and practical strategy" for progressing Park51. By April 2014, he revealed intentions to demolish the current building and construct a three-story Islamic cultural museum, commissioning French architect Jean Nouvel for the design.

By late August 2014, initial mosque plans were set aside in favor of establishing a three-level Islamic museum with prayer facilities and residential units at 49–51 Park Place. The property included a former Con Edison structure that had been sold, although demolition had yet to begin.

In September 2015, Bloomberg reported El-Gamal’s vision for a 667-foot, 70-story luxury condominium tower on the site to leverage growth in Lower Manhattan’s housing market. Alongside this condo at 45 Park Place, a three-story Islamic museum was planned for 51 Park Place.

On May 19, 2016, El-Gamal obtained Sharia-compliant financing for a revised project: a 43-story, 665-foot tower at 45 Park Place supported by a $174 million loan from Malayan Banking Bhd. and $45 million from Saudi investors. Approved in 2017, this development offered some of Manhattan’s highest-priced residences, with one-bedroom units starting at $1.92 million and duplex penthouses priced between $39 and $41 million. El-Gamal emphasized features such as 11-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows to appeal to prospective buyers. By early 2019, construction was approaching its topping-out phase despite reports of $10 million in outstanding payments.

In 2017, El-Gamal resubmitted plans for the Islamic cultural center at 51 Park Place alongside the condominium project. The proposed center would occupy approximately 16,000 ft² with a height of 71 feet but had not commenced construction as of December 2019.

Controversy

The Cordoba Project—incorrectly dubbed the Ground Zero Mosque by Pamela Geller—became a source of national debate. Opponents pointed to polls indicating that most Americans, including residents of New York State and City (except those in Manhattan), opposed the initiative. Nonetheless, in 2010 most Americans recognized the developers’ legal entitlement to move forward.

The project was neither an actual mosque nor situated directly at Ground Zero. Advocates highlighted First Amendment rights and viewed it as an occasion for Muslims to express peaceful values and for Americans to reaffirm principles of tolerance and diversity.

Critics expressed concerns about its closeness to the September 11 attack site, its scale, financial backers, and the project's name referencing the Umayyad conquest of Córdoba.

The issue divided opinion among prominent figures including families of 9/11 victims, Muslim communities worldwide, and political leaders at local and national levels—making it a contentious topic during the 2010 midterm elections. This controversy coincided with nationwide protests against mosque projects, raising alarms about worsening relations between Muslim and non-Muslim populations in the United States.

Donald Trump proposed offering $6 million to acquire the Park51 property to halt its development, citing the project's divisiveness rather than its geographic location.

Funding

Following unfounded allegations connecting the project's financing to radical Islamic groups, Imam Abdul Rauf committed to revealing all contributors backing Park51. Developer Sharif El-Gamal affirmed that they would refuse donations from entities such as the Iranian government, Hamas, or any organizations promoting "un-American values." Initially, Abdul Rauf asserted that the entire funding would come from the Muslim American community; however, he later mentioned plans to seek assistance from Muslim and Arab countries.

Journalist Claudia Rosett raised questions regarding the origins of the project's funds. Several U.S. lawmakers, including Senator Joe Lieberman and Representatives Peter King and Rick Lazio, urged inquiries into potential foreign financial involvement despite fundraising efforts not having commenced. King criticized the absence of clarity concerning the $100 million financing, while Lazio stressed the importance of determining whether foreign governments or extremist groups were contributing.

Dr. Zuhdi Jasser, president of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy, also called for transparency in funding, warning that foreign contributions could suggest hidden agendas. In response, Reza Aslan argued that presuming overseas funding equates to extremism is "absurd" and maintained that all religious organizations should maintain equal openness about their financial sources.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg dismissed demands for rigorous examination of donations, likening such scrutiny to questioning offerings collected by churches. Television host Rick Sanchez supported this perspective, noting that similar inquiries would apply to other faith-based institutions.

Reports reveal donations amounting to $900,000 from Qatar and a foundation led by Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal have supported nonprofit groups connected to Feisal Abdul Rauf. On the other hand, funding for opponents of the initiative includes contributions from the Fairbrook Foundation, which is linked to pro-Israel activists Aubrey and Joyce Chernick.

Abdul Rauf's views of the project

Feisal Abdul Rauf, a Kuwaiti-American Sufi Muslim, served as the primary advocate for the project until January 2011. Some American politicians expressed apprehensions regarding his perspectives. Conversely, outlets such as The Economist portrayed him as "a well-intentioned American cleric fostering interfaith dialogue."

In an interview conducted on September 8, 2010, Abdul Rauf stated, "Had I known this would cause such distress, I would not have pursued it. My life’s work has been dedicated to peacemaking."

Effects on recruitment of radical Islamists

Experts in counterterrorism highlighted that the controversy surrounding Park51 created a "recruitment opportunity" for radical Islamist factions. Evan Kohlmann of Flashpoint Global Partners pointed out that extremists perceived the backlash as revealing America's "ugly face," which could potentially fuel radicalization among domestic extremists.

Newsweek cited a Taliban member who connected resistance to the project with growing support for their cause: "By stopping this mosque from being constructed, America is doing us a huge favor. It is generating more recruits, financial support, and popular backing."

Documentary

In 2012, director David Osit created a documentary centered on the Park51 controversy, highlighting the perspective of developer Sharif El-Gamal. This film was broadcast on PBS during the fall of 2013.

Polls

Surveys revealed that a majority of Americans, as well as residents of New York State and New York City, opposed constructing the center near Ground Zero, although a plurality of Manhattan residents expressed support. In July 2010, a Rasmussen Reports survey indicated that 54% of American adults were against a mosque near Ground Zero, compared to 20% in favor. An August Fox News poll found that 64% of respondents across political affiliations considered it inappropriate to build the Islamic center so close to Ground Zero.

A CNN poll conducted in August 2010 showed 68% of Americans opposed the Park51 initiative, with opposition among Democrats (54%), Republicans (82%), and Independents (70%). Similarly, an Economist/YouGov poll from August confirmed opposition at nearly 58%, with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents largely against the project.

Within New York City, a Quinnipiac poll from June reported 52% opposed and 31% in favor; Manhattan residents supported the plan at 46%, while Staten Island exhibited strong opposition at 73%. Opposition was higher among Republicans (82%) than Democrats (45%). A Marist poll between late July and early August reflected similar citywide opposition at 53%, but showed Manhattan support increasing to 53%. By September 2010, Marist noted growing approval at 41%, particularly among African Americans, liberals, Democrats, and Bronx inhabitants; Manhattan residents continued their support.

Statewide polls by Siena Research Institute in August revealed that 61% of New Yorkers opposed the project versus 26% in favor, including opposition from both Republicans (81%) and Democrats (55%). Among New York City residents specifically, opposition was recorded at 56% compared to 33% support. Some critics challenged the phrasing of poll questions.

Certain surveys evaluated opinions regarding Muslims' rights to establish Park51. An August Quinnipiac poll found that 54% agreed Muslims had the right to build near Ground Zero, with 40% disagreeing. A Fox News poll indicated that 61% across party lines believed developers possessed this right. The Economist/YouGov poll showed Democrats and Independents largely supported this constitutional right, while most Republicans did not. Overall, just over half (50.2%) endorsed the right to construct at the location.

Additionally, the Economist/YouGov survey found that 52% of Americans believed Muslims should be permitted to build mosques wherever other faiths have houses of worship; 34% thought some sites might be unsuitable for mosques though acceptable for other religious buildings; and 14% opposed mosques anywhere in the United States.

Opposition

The proposal to erect a mosque near the Ground Zero stirred significant resistance from those who perceived it as disrespectful given that the September 11 attackers identified as Muslims. Critics described Park51 as a "victory monument for Islamic extremists".

9/11 families

Numerous family members of September 11 victims expressed offense at the plan, emphasizing that the attackers used Islam to justify their acts. Their objections were framed primarily around sensitivity toward victims’ families rather than debates over religious freedom or property rights.

The organization 9/11 Families for a Safe & Strong America condemned the project as "a gross insult" to those who lost their lives. Debra Burlingame, co-founder whose brother was killed in the attacks, stated:

This site is situated just 600 feet [180 m] from where nearly 3,000 people were murdered by Islamic extremists ... it is profoundly insensitive and audacious ... to establish a mosque endorsing shariah law that terrorists cite as justification ... that is an obscenity to me.

Sally Regenhard, who lost her son who was a firefighter, described the center as "sacrilege on sacred ground," emphasizing her concerns stemmed from sensitivity rather than racism. Former FDNY Deputy Chief Jim Riches conveyed unease about visiting a memorial adjacent to a mosque, highlighting that location mattered more than religious liberty. Michael Burke argued that decency and respect should take precedence over property rights when considering such a project so close to Ground Zero.

Other relatives shared comparable apprehensions: C. Lee Hanson described it as painful and urged for an alternative site; Rosemary Cain called it "a slap in the face" and referred to Ground Zero as "sacred ground"; Nancy Nee labeled it "arrogance"; Evelyn Pettigano opposed its closeness due to personal loss; Dov Shefi likened placing the mosque there to desecration; Cindy McGinty questioned both funding transparency and site selection; Barry Zelman drew parallels with inappropriate cultural centers built on former death camps.

Others advocating relocation included Rosaleen Tallon-DaRos and firefighter Tim Brown. Maureen Basnicki criticized the message conveyed by the project as compounding injury with insult.

Muslims

The proposal to establish an Islamic community center close to Ground Zero encountered opposition from certain Muslim groups. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community does not object to the mosque itself but stresses the importance of being considerate toward non-Muslim feelings, recommending other potential sites. Their leader, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, suggested that if such a mosque is constructed there, equivalent places of worship for other faiths should be built nearby to represent harmony and coexistence.

Lulu Schwartz, a Muslim neoconservative journalist and Executive Director of the Center for Islamic Pluralism, argued that situating the center near the Ground Zero contradicted Sufi values of modesty and overlooked security concerns for American Muslims. She also criticized Abdul Rauf for his associations with radical elements.

Zuhdi Jasser, founder of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy, opposed the initiative, asserting that Ground Zero should not serve as a platform to promote Islam through a grandiose building. He cautioned that the organizers might be advancing Islamist objectives while presenting themselves as moderate.

Neda Bolourchi, a Muslim who lost her mother during 9/11, expressed concern that the mosque could be perceived as a triumph for militant Muslims. Authors Raheel Raza and Tarek Fatah from the Muslim Canadian Congress viewed the plan as provocative and damaging to intercommunity relations, pointing out that New York already hosts numerous mosques.

Akbar Ahmed, holder of the Ibn Khaldun Chair of Islamic Studies at American University, noted that many Americans have yet to come to terms with 9/11, making the mosque's location particularly sensitive despite constitutional protections.

Abdul Rahman Al-Rashid, general manager of Al-Arabiya, dismissed the project as unnecessary for Muslims and mainly a subject of debate among non-Muslim Americans.

Rima Fakih, crowned Miss USA in 2010 and the first Muslim-American to hold the title, supported religious liberty but opposed placing the mosque near Ground Zero out of respect for victims’ families.

Politicians

Numerous U.S. politicians voiced opposition to the Park51 initiative. Arizona Senator John McCain, the 2008 Republican presidential nominee, stated it "would damage relations rather than improve them," while his vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin voiced criticism of supporters via Twitter. Other Republican opponents included Mitt Romney, Georgia Senator Johnny Isakson, Maine Senator Olympia Snowe, Idaho Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson, and Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty. North Carolina congressional hopeful Ilario Pantano described the mosque as a "Martyr–Marker honoring the terrorists."

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich condemned the project as "an offensive and aggressive act," criticizing the name "Cordoba House" for evoking Islamic conquest symbolism. He argued against building a mosque near Ground Zero unless comparable churches or synagogues exist in Saudi Arabia, equating it to placing Nazi symbols beside the Holocaust Museum. New York Republicans opposing it included former Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Congressman Peter T. King, former Governor George Pataki, and former Congressman Rick Lazio. Gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino pledged to use eminent domain to stop construction and instead erect a war memorial.

New York Republican congressional candidate George Demos objected, demanding reconstruction of the destroyed St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church before proceeding with an Islamic center and calling for scrutiny over project funding.

New York City Council Member Dan Halloran, whose cousin perished on 9/11, was among the first local officials to publicly denounce the project, underscoring reverence for hallowed ground. Paul Sipos from Manhattan Community Board 1 likened it to placing culturally insensitive centers near sites like Pearl Harbor or Auschwitz.

The National Republican Trust Political Action Committee produced a television advertisement opposing Park51, asserting that "we Americans will make our voices heard."

Democratic Independent Senator Joe Lieberman proposed pausing the project until further assessment regarding its impact on 9/11 victims’ families and financial backing could be conducted.

New York Democratic Assemblyman and Attorney-General candidate Richard Brodsky labeled it offensive while highlighting that although perpetrators acted in Islam’s name, most Muslims reject their actions.

Senate Majority Leader Democrat Harry Reid called for unity and recommended relocating the mosque elsewhere. His spokesperson reaffirmed respect for religious freedom but favored an alternative site.

Democratic National Committee chairman and former Vermont Governor Howard Dean described Park51 as "a genuine affront" to families affected by 9/11 and urged developers to consider emotional impacts beyond legal rights, noting opposition was not confined to right-wing factions.

Democratic Representatives from New York expressed apprehension about location sensitivity: Michael E. McMahon opposed construction near Ground Zero and advocated collaboration with local leaders; Steve Israel recognized constitutional rights but urged empathy toward victims’ families; and Tim Bishop emphasized Ground Zero’s sanctity, encouraging an alternative location while respecting constitutional protections.

Organizations

Tim Brown, a firefighter from New York City, voiced strong opposition to the initiative, criticizing the mosque's financial backing from nations governed by shariah law and its collaboration with the conservative legal organization American Center for Law & Justice (ACLJ), established by Pat Robertson, which champions Christian religious freedoms. Brown urged Abdul Rauf to provide full transparency regarding the sources of funding for the project. Peter Ferrara, serving as General Counsel for the American Civil Rights Union, highlighted that the Cordoba Mosque ranked among the largest mosque complexes worldwide and was constructed on the grounds of a former Christian church, symbolizing a historical Muslim conquest tradition.

An online petition garnered over 20,000 signatures aiming to halt the Ground Zero Mosque, while efforts to persuade the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission to designate the site as a landmark—thereby complicating development—were unsuccessful.

Richard Land, President of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, objected to situating a mosque near Ground Zero, citing the attackers' professed Islamic motives despite widespread denunciations from Muslim communities. Similarly, Bill Rench, pastor at nearby Calvary Baptist Church, voiced opposition to the construction.

The Zionist Organization of America expressed disapproval of Park51 due to its location and reservations about Abdul Rauf. The Simon Wiesenthal Center, which manages the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles and Jerusalem, also opposed the project’s location. Initially, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) opposed constructing Park51 near the World Trade Center but reversed this position in 2021, acknowledging their earlier judgment was incorrect.

Mark Williams, representing the conservative Tea Party, described the project as a monument glorifying terror attacks and disparaged its religious intent. Subsequently, he was removed from the National Tea Party Federation for unrelated racially offensive comments.

The Dove World Outreach Center also protested against building Park51.

Others

Political commentator Daniel Pipes opposed any Islamist institution being established near Ground Zero but accepted a genuinely moderate Muslim center in proximity. British comedian Pat Condell criticized Park51 as an expression of Islamic triumphalism and cautioned about potential Islamization in the U.S., leading to diminished freedoms akin to those observed in Europe. Political analyst Charles Krauthammer also opposed the development, expressing concerns that it might encourage Islamic extremism.

On August 9, 2010, Greg Gutfeld revealed plans to open New York City's first Islamic-friendly gay bar adjacent to the proposed center. He described this initiative as an effort to promote religious liberty and combat deadly homophobia within Islamic societies, emphasizing that the project was serious and aimed at breaking down social barriers.

Support

Advocates for Park51 contended that its building would not be visible from the World Trade Center site. Additionally, some victims and their families expressed support for the initiative, recognizing that Muslims were among those who lost their lives on 9/11.

9/11 families

A number of relatives of those who perished on 9/11 expressed their backing for the project. Colleen Kelley, who lost her brother William, highlighted the paradox of opposing a mosque when Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all worship the same deity. Orlando and Phyllis Rodriguez, parents of a son killed in the attacks, conveyed their support for the Islamic community center as a tribute to their son and other victims.

Herb Ouida, who mourned his son Todd, spoke against condemning an entire faith or restricting Muslims from praying near the World Trade Center. Marvin Bethea, a former EMS worker affected by the site’s conditions after 9/11, pointed to racism influencing opposition to the project and stressed that despite his struggles, he harbors no animosity toward Muslims.

Donna O'Connor, whose pregnant daughter died in the attacks, interpreted the center as a symbol reflecting Americans’ rejection of judging innocent individuals for the actions of a few. Ted Olson, former Solicitor General and widower of a 9/11 victim, defended the rights of Park51’s organizers while cautioning against allowing extremist hatred to fuel broader religious discrimination.

Bruce Wallace, whose nephew died assisting victims, criticized media emphasis on opposing voices while ignoring those who view the center as a meaningful step forward for American society. Judith Keane, who lost her husband on 9/11, condemned punishing peaceful citizens for others’ deeds as unjust and rooted in fear of difference.

Talat Hamdani, mother of a first responder killed on 9/11, co-wrote an article advocating pluralism through the center. She criticized claims framed as concerns about sensitivity as veiled attempts to undermine constitutional rights and warned against scapegoating Muslims in terrorism discourse.

The anti-war organization September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows supported the center as aligned with core American principles of liberty and justice, viewing it as a stand against violence, intolerance, and racial prejudice. Terry Rockefeller, whose sister was lost on 9/11, described the center as a celebration of New York City and American ideals. Sue Rosenblum, who lost her son Josh at the World Trade Center, emphasized that barring construction there promotes hatred contrary to religious freedom.

Politicians

During the White House Iftar dinner on August 13, 2010, President Barack Obama affirmed that Muslims possess a legal right to establish the Islamic center near Ground Zero, underscoring religious freedom protected by local laws. He clarified subsequently that he was not commenting on whether choosing that location was advisable.

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg expressed strong support for the initiative, asserting that Ground Zero is an appropriate location as it represents U.S. religious liberty. He opposed governmental interference in religious expression and warned that conceding to opposition would embolden terrorists. Bloomberg also addressed concerns from victims’ families by noting many were in favor of the center. When asked about vetting religious leaders involved with the project, he emphasized First Amendment protections over personal views.

Edward "Ro" Sheffe, chair of Community Board 1’s Financial Committee, along with City Councilwoman Margaret Chin, endorsed the center as advantageous for their community. Other political figures supporting the project included Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, U.S. Representative Jerrold Nadler, State Senator Daniel Squadron, City Comptroller John Liu, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, and Public Advocate Bill de Blasio.

Nadler pointed out that Muslim prayers already take place at the Pentagon—a non-denominational chapel dedicated in 2002—without controversy, illustrating precedent for Muslim worship near sites connected to 9/11.

Republican Senator Orrin Hatch supported the project on grounds of religious freedom, recalling his past opposition to objections against Mormon temples. Congressman Ron Paul released a statement attributing opposition to Islamophobia and political maneuvering undermining First Amendment protections. Representative Keith Ellison, America’s first Muslim congressman, along with Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, also expressed support by emphasizing religious tolerance and distinguishing Islam from terrorism.

Former Bush administration advisor Mark McKinnon criticized Republican resistance as reinforcing extremist narratives. Former Bush speechwriter Michael Gerson argued that opposing the center would damage counterterrorism efforts by fostering conflict between Western nations and Muslim communities.

Mahmoud al-Zahar, Hamas leader in Gaza, declared support for constructing mosques universally, including at this location.

Ex-President Bill Clinton endorsed Park51 by noting that many Muslims were among 9/11’s victims and suggested dedicating the center to those individuals could have reduced controversy.

Former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura defended the mosque based on First Amendment rights, comparing opposition to denying churches near Oklahoma City following its bombing. He emphasized that constitutional protections extend even to unpopular speech regardless of public sentiment.

Organizations

Ibrahim Hooper, the Communications Director at the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), described the controversy as "fabricated" by "intolerant individuals," emphasizing that only a small vocal faction expressed opposition. CAIR's Executive Director, Nihad Awad, dismissed Republican Congressman Peter King's viewpoint as "radical." Journalist and CNN host Fareed Zakaria of Newsweek voiced support for the initiative and, in protest against its critics, returned a 2005 award he had received from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Zakaria portrayed Imam Rauf as a moderate Muslim who consistently condemns terrorism.

The Muslim Public Affairs Council also expressed endorsement for the project. While the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) condemned anti-Muslim prejudice and labeled some opponents as "intolerant," it suggested choosing an alternative site out of respect for the families affected by the tragedy. In response to this position, Fareed Zakaria returned his ADL award along with the accompanying prize money.

Jewish advocacy group J Street supported the mosque’s construction, citing religious liberty principles. Both the New York Civil Liberties Union and the American Civil Liberties Union publicly backed the project, grounding their support in constitutional protections of religious freedom. The Interfaith Alliance endorsed the development but stressed the importance of transparency regarding its funding sources.

A petition organized by liberal political action committee Votevets.org amassed 14,000 signatures backing the initiative, including endorsements from 450 veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as 4,000 veterans from other conflicts.

Academia

Mark R. Cohen, a professor specializing in Jewish Civilization at Princeton University, observed that mosques like the proposed one near Ground Zero serve not only as prayer spaces but also as educational hubs that help overcome ignorance.

Rabbi Geoffrey Dennis from the Jewish Studies Program at University of North Texas highlighted that religious freedom on private property in Lower Manhattan is effectively inviolable.

Stephen Prothero, a professor at Boston University, supported constructing Cordoba House near Ground Zero, directly challenging arguments made by its detractors.

Padraic O'Hare, who directs the Center for the Study of Jewish-Christian-Muslim Relations at Merrimack College, asserted that prayer fosters peace and expressed his approval for establishing a Muslim house of worship close to Ground Zero.

In an interview with CNN, Reza Aslan, a professor at University of California, Riverside, defended Imam Abdul Rauf as one of America’s most inclusive religious leaders advocating peace and described the center as an “American-Muslim” institution comparable to a nearby Jewish community center.

Others

At the 2010 US Open, Pakistani tennis player Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi remarked, "As a Muslim, this is what makes America exceptional – freedom of religion and speech. If the mosque is constructed, it would be a significant gesture to Muslims worldwide. I would truly appreciate it."

See also

• Islamic Cultural Center of New York
• Abbey Mills Mosque – A similar mosque expansion proposal in London.

External links

• Official Park51 Community Center website
• Park51 presence on Twitter
• News coverage and analysis compiled by The New York Times
• Audio feature titled 'Images Of N.Y. Islamic Center Meant To Educate' – report from NPR
• News reports and commentary hosted by the History News Network at George Mason University