Park51

Park51

Company type	Community center project
Industry	Religious and cultural community services
Founded	July 2009
Founder	Feisal Abdul Rauf, Sharif El-Gamal
Headquarters	New York City , United States
Products	Islamic community center, mosque, cultural museum, condominiums

Park51—initially known as Cordoba House—was envisioned as a 13-story Islamic community hub and mosque located in Lower Manhattan, New York City. The developers sought to foster interfaith understanding and dialogue. Due to its proximity, just two blocks from the World Trade Center site where the September 11 attacks occurred, the project became highly contentious and was commonly referred to as the "Ground Zero mosque." This controversy attracted significant political focus during the 2010 U.S. election cycle.

The development aimed to replace an Italianate structure dating back to the 1850s that had sustained damage. Designed by Michel Abboud, principal of SOMA Architects, the building was planned in a modern Islamic architectural style. Its features 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 the victims of September 11. The prayer area was designed to accommodate between 1,000 and 2,000 worshippers.

A temporary Islamic center opened at Park51 in September 2011. By mid-2014, the focus shifted toward constructing a three-story museum combined with prayer space and condominiums at 49–51 Park Place. In September 2015, plans were announced for a tall luxury residential tower. By May 2016, financing had been secured for a 43-story condominium building alongside an adjacent Islamic cultural museum.

Construction on the condominium tower named 45 Park Place began in 2017 and was approaching completion by 2019. As of , work on the Islamic cultural center at 51 Park Place, intended to rise tall, had yet to commence.

Background

In December 2009, plans for "Cordoba House" were reported by The New York Times at a location already serving as a Muslim worship site. Initial reactions were relatively subdued, with some libertarian commentators offering favorable coverage. The proposal underwent review by Manhattan Community Board 1 in May 2010, which brought it into the national media spotlight. Organizers characterized the center as a platform for multi-faith dialogue aimed at promoting local and global peace and tolerance. The concept was inspired by the Manhattan Jewish Community Center located at 76th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. Despite these intentions, the proposal ignited intense nationwide debate.

The original Cordoba House project became the subject of disputes involving well-funded experts whom some accused of spreading misinformation campaigns warning about radical Islamic threats. Conservative bloggers—including Pamela Geller and Robert B. Spencer, founders of Stop Islamization of America—launched campaigns that mobilized millions in protest and popularized the term "Ground Zero mosque," escalating national controversy. Conservative media outlets that had been active in post-9/11 anti-Islam demonstrations also circulated material during earlier phases of opposition.

Following the 2010 Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. FEC—which permitted unlimited funding of special interest groups in U.S. elections provided there was no coordination with political parties—the opposition campaign against Park51 became one of the early examples of so-called dark money influencing American politics. Advocates for Park51 argued that critics unfairly conflated Islam as a whole with the extremist individuals responsible for the World Trade Center attacks. It was also noted by The New York Times that Muslim prayer spaces existed within the World Trade Center complex prior to September 11.

Naming of the project

Originally, the initiative was known as Cordoba House before adopting the name Park51, derived from its location on Park Place. The project's leading Imam occasionally referred to it by its former title, "Cordoba House". According to the Park51 website, Park51 designates the community center itself, while Cordoba House pertains specifically to its "interfaith and religious component".

The Cordoba Initiative explained that the term "Cordoba House" alludes to the period between the 8th and 11th centuries in Córdoba, Spain, which is regarded as an example of harmonious coexistence among Muslims, Christians, and Jews. The Economist highlighted that the name evokes a historical hub of scholarship fostered by these three religions. Nevertheless, the choice of name attracted criticism; for instance, Newt Gingrich described it as "a deliberately insulting term" symbolizing Muslim domination over Christian Spaniards. Opponents such as Raymond Ibrahim contended that both the project and its name represented Islamic conquest rather than promoting interfaith understanding, viewing mosques more as emblems of authority than community spaces.

The designation "Ground Zero mosque" has often been applied to Park51. Given that it is neither situated on the World Trade Center site nor functions primarily as a mosque, some media outlets suggested alternatives like "mosque near WTC site" or "Islamic center near WTC". The Cordoba Initiative stresses that the facility is not solely a mosque. Observers including Anushay Hossain and Jean Marbella characterized it more as an Islamic community center or a YMCA-style facility rather than a conventional place of worship.

Before 2001

Constructed between 1857 and 1858, 45–47 Park Place was designed in the Palazzo style architecture by Daniel D. Badger for a notable New York shipping company. Its Italian palazzo design embodied European elegance and economic power, typical of "store and loft" structures within Lower Manhattan’s dry goods warehouse district.

This building was among a limited number of freestanding properties in southern Tribeca proposed—but ultimately not designated—as individual landmarks during a 1980s initiative aimed at establishing a Tribeca historic district. Despite public hearings held in 1989, it remained "calendared" without receiving landmark status. By August 2010, out of 29 buildings suggested for landmark status in 1989—including 45–47 Park Place—twenty-three had been officially landmarked while six were still pending, this building among them. At that point, New York City counted more than 11,000 landmarked properties.

Prior to the September 11 attacks, Muslims were already present in Lower Manhattan, with at least two mosques near the World Trade Center and multiple Muslim prayer rooms within the complex.

September 11, 2001, attacks

The five-story structure at 45–47 Park Place, situated between West Broadway and Church Street, sustained heavy 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 penetrated through the tower’s north side, impacting the roof and two floors of 45–47 Park Place. This impact destroyed three floor beams and weakened the building’s internal framework. Although initial exterior evaluations overlooked this damage, it was later uncovered during interior inspections.

In April 2013, surveyors working with the New York Police Department discovered a large airplane fragment measuring wide and long, bearing Boeing markings, lodged in a narrow alley approximately wide between 51 Park and 50 Murray Street. Initially suspected to be landing gear, Boeing later identified it as the trailing edge flap actuation support structure from a Boeing 767—the model involved in the attacks. A rope seen around the piece was used by an officer to secure it for identification purposes. Boeing could not determine which specific aircraft it originated from.

2001–2009

Approximately two blocks north of the World Trade Center site, the building at 45–47 Park Place was owned by Stephen Pomerantz and Kukiko Mitani and leased to the Burlington Coat Factory. Mitani attempted to sell the property for several years, at one point listing it for $18 million. The building remained unoccupied until its acquisition in July 2009. For several months afterward, it served as an overflow prayer area accommodating up to 450 Muslims, with services conducted by Feisal Abdul Rauf, an Imam affiliated with al-Farah mosque in nearby TriBeCa.

Purchase and investors

In July 2009, Soho Properties acquired 45–47 Park Place for $4.85 million in cash. Initially intending to develop condominiums, Soho's Chairman and CEO, Sharif El-Gamal, was persuaded by Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf to establish a community center that included prayer facilities. El-Gamal's business partner is Nour Mousa, who is the nephew of Amr Moussa, former Secretary General of the Arab League.

The investment group comprised non-profit organizations such as the Cordoba Initiative—a tax-exempt foundation with assets totaling $20,000—and the American Society for Muslim Advancement (ASMA). Both entities were founded by Rauf, who also served as CEO; his wife Daisy Khan held the position of ASMA Executive Director. Between 2004 and 2008, the Cordoba Initiative raised under $100,000 in funds. Both organizations operated from a shared office location in New York.

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

The adjacent property 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, with plans to develop both buildings jointly. The lease is set to expire in 2071. In February 2010, El-Gamal informed Con Ed of his intention to exercise a purchase option estimated between $10 million and $20 million; he stated that cost “is not an issue.” The transaction was subject to review by the New York Public Service Commission, potentially requiring approval from a board influenced by the New York governor’s office.

The location’s closeness to the World Trade Center—“where a piece of the wreckage fell”—was a significant consideration for Muslim investors. Rauf described it as “sending a message contrary to what happened on 9/11” and aimed “to counteract extremist narratives.”

Planned facilities

Although commonly referred to as a mosque, the Initiative’s official blog described the center as a community-oriented facility that includes a prayer area, comparing it to institutions like the YMCA or Jewish Community Center. Due to features such as a restaurant and a performance venue, the Initiative clarified that Park51 was not exclusively a mosque. Daisy Khan, partner of Imam Rauf, highlighted the importance of labeling it a "prayer space" rather than a mosque to allow for regulated access beyond purely religious functions.

Initially, the official website mentioned a mosque operated independently but open to everyone; by September 2010, the term "mosque" was replaced with "prayer space." Sharif el-Gamal, the lead developer, supported incorporating a mosque component to address the needs of New York’s Muslim population.

The Muslim prayer area was planned to occupy two floors within the 13-story building. In addition to prayer spaces, the design included a 500-seat auditorium, theater, performing arts center, fitness center, swimming pool, basketball court, childcare facilities, art exhibitions, bookstore, culinary school, and halal food court.

El-Gamal envisioned an environmentally sustainable structure featuring a glass exterior. The project entailed demolishing two damaged buildings at 45–47 Park Place and Broadway and replacing them with a contemporary glass-and-steel building spanning 45–51 Park Place. Some observers speculated that groundbreaking or opening dates might coincide with September 11 anniversaries; Khan denied intentional scheduling but acknowledged that groundbreaking could occur near the 10th anniversary.

Khan projected that once completed, Friday prayers would attract between 1,000 and 2,000 Muslims. The initiative aimed to improve relations between Islam and Americans. Khan explained that choosing this location was intended to create a positive legacy from 9/11 and represent moderate Muslims who reject extremism. She described the center as a symbol giving voice to Muslims oppressed by extremists and as part of Lower Manhattan’s revitalization.

Community board advisory vote

On May 25, 2010, the local community board gave conditional support to parts of the Cordoba House plans through a non-binding advisory vote of 29-to-1 with 10 abstentions. This endorsement focused exclusively on "the important community facilities [the project] will provide," while explicitly stating no position on religious aspects or any religious facilities linked to either the Cordoba Initiative or Cordoba House Project. Board chairwoman Julie Menin advocated removing references to the building as a mosque and interfaith center from the resolution and stressed that city agencies should refrain from intervening in decisions regarding religious institutions’ locations.

The meeting was marked by significant tension. Supporters included Muslims who lost relatives in the attacks and some non-Muslim family members of 9/11 victims, despite facing protests. Conversely, other family members opposed the project on grounds that its location was inappropriate.

Landmark status declined and litigation

As debate intensified, New York City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission revisited an earlier landmark application from the 1980s that had previously remained unaddressed. On August 3, 2010, the commission voted unanimously (9–0) against granting landmark designation and historic protection to the building, thereby allowing its demolition and replacement with the new Cordoba House.

The following day, Timothy Brown, a firefighter who survived 9/11, filed suit in New York State Supreme Court seeking to overturn the commission’s decision. He praised 45–47 Park Place as "a fine example of Italian Renaissance-inspired palazzi" once common in the neighborhood. The lawsuit was brought on Brown’s behalf by the conservative public interest organization, the American Center for Law and Justice.

On July 10, 2011, Justice Paul G. Feinman dismissed Brown’s lawsuit on grounds that he lacked special legal standing despite his interest in preserving the building. Adam Leitman Bailey, who represented the Islamic center’s developer pro bono, hailed the ruling as "a victory for America," underscoring constitutional protections despite opposition. Brown’s attorney contended that first responders should have standing to protect landmarks and historic sites at ground zero.

Updated Developments

Park51 welcomed the public on September 21, 2011, occupying 4,000 ft² of refurbished space within the Burlington Coat Factory structure, with intentions to eventually replace the building "within several years." Visitors experienced the "NYChildren" exhibit featuring 160 portraits of immigrant children, alongside a modest prayer room located on the lower level.

In August 2011, developer Sharif El-Gamal chose to pursue a "more measured, thoughtful, and pragmatic strategy" for advancing Park51. By April 2014, he revealed plans to demolish the current building and construct a three-story Islamic cultural museum designed by French architect Jean Nouvel.

Toward the end of August 2014, the vision shifted from establishing a mosque to creating a three-story Islamic museum incorporating prayer facilities and residential condominiums at 49–51 Park Place. This location included a Con Edison property that was subsequently sold, although demolition had yet to take place.

By September 2015, Bloomberg reported El-Gamal’s intention to develop a 667 ft, 70-story luxury condominium tower at 45 Park Place to leverage the expanding residential market in Lower Manhattan, alongside maintaining plans for a three-story Islamic museum at 51 Park Place.

On May 19, 2016, El-Gamal secured Sharia-compliant funding for a redesigned 43-story, 665 ft tower at 45 Park Place: a $174 million loan led by Malayan Banking Bhd., complemented by $45 million from Saudi investors. Approved in 2017, this project featured some of Manhattan’s priciest condominiums, with prices ranging from $1.92 million for one-bedroom units up to $39–41 million for duplex penthouses. El-Gamal emphasized attributes such as 11-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows to entice prospective buyers. By early 2019, the building was approaching topping out; however, reports emerged in April 2019 regarding $10 million in outstanding payments.

Concurrently, El-Gamal resubmitted updated proposals for an Islamic cultural center at 51 Park Place in 2017 as part of the broader development. This proposed 16,000 ft², 71-foot-tall facility had not commenced construction as of December 2019.

Controversy

The Cordoba Project—incorrectly dubbed the Ground Zero Mosque by Pamela Geller—ignited widespread national debate. Critics referenced polls indicating that most Americans—including residents of New York State and City (excluding Manhattan)—opposed the initiative. Nevertheless, in 2010, a majority of Americans believed the developers held legal rights to proceed.

The project was neither an actual mosque nor situated directly at Ground Zero. Advocates cited First Amendment protections for the developers’ rights and underscored opportunities for Muslims to exemplify peaceful principles and for Americans to reaffirm values of tolerance and diversity.

Opponents expressed concerns about its closeness to the 9/11 site, scale of development, funding origins, and the project's name referencing the eighth-century Umayyad conquest of Córdoba. This controversy divided families of September 11 victims, Muslim communities worldwide, and politicians at both local and national levels, becoming a polarizing topic during the 2010 midterm elections. The dispute coincided with protests against mosque projects in other states, raising alarms over worsening relations between Muslim and non-Muslim populations across the United States.

Donald Trump offered $6 million to purchase the Park51 property aiming to stop construction, citing his desire to resolve what he described as a "very serious, inflammatory, and highly divisive situation."

Funding

In response to false claims linking the project's financing to radical Islamist sources, Imam Abdul Rauf committed to revealing all contributors supporting Park51. Developer Sharif El-Gamal affirmed that they would refuse donations from entities such as the Iranian government, Hamas, or any organizations embodying what they described as "un-American values." While Abdul Rauf initially stated that the Muslim American community would provide the funding, he later indicated an intention to seek financial backing from Muslim and Arab countries.

Journalist Claudia Rosett raised questions concerning the origins of the project's funding, which led politicians including Senator Joe Lieberman and Representatives Peter King and Rick Lazio to call for investigations into potential foreign financial involvement, despite fundraising efforts not yet being underway. King criticized the opacity surrounding the anticipated $100 million budget, while Lazio stressed the importance of transparency if foreign governments or extremist groups were contributing funds.

Dr. Zuhdi Jasser, President of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy, advocated for openness in funding sources to prevent any hidden agendas from international donors. Conversely, Reza Aslan argued that presuming foreign contributions equate to extremism was "absurd," and called for consistent transparency standards across all religious organizations.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg dismissed demands for detailed donor disclosures, likening them to routine offerings collected during church services. Similarly, television host Rick Sanchez pointed out that scrutinizing mosque finances would logically require examining all religious institutions’ funding.

Reports indicate that donations amounting to $900,000 came from Qatar’s government and a foundation led by Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal directed toward nonprofits connected with Abdul Rauf. Meanwhile, opponents’ financial support reportedly includes contributions from the Fairbrook Foundation, linked to pro-Israel activists Aubrey and Joyce Chernick.

Abdul Rauf's perspective on the project

Abdul Rauf, a Kuwaiti-American Sufi Muslim, served as the principal advocate for the initiative until January 2011. Some U.S. lawmakers and others voiced concerns about his viewpoints, while The Economist characterized him as "a well-intentioned American cleric dedicated to fostering interfaith dialogue."

During an interview on September 8, 2010, Abdul Rauf expressed that had he foreseen the controversy and distress it would generate, he might have reconsidered pursuing the project, underscoring his lifelong dedication to promoting peace.

Impact on radical Islamist recruitment

Experts specializing in counterterrorism noted that the Park51 debate offered a "recruitment opportunity" for radical Islamist factions. Evan Kohlmann of Flashpoint Global Partners observed that extremists perceived the backlash as revealing America’s "ugly face," potentially motivating domestic extremists toward radicalization.

Newsweek reported statements from a Taliban operative who linked opposition to the mosque project with increased recruitment and support for their cause: "By stopping this mosque from being constructed, America is doing us a great favor," resulting in more recruits, financial contributions, and popular backing.

Documentary

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

Polls

Surveys consistently revealed that the majority of Americans, along with residents of New York State and New York City, opposed the construction of the center near Ground Zero, although a plurality of Manhattan inhabitants expressed support. According to Rasmussen Reports in July 2010, 54% of American adults were against building a mosque close to Ground Zero. An August Fox News survey indicated that 64% of respondents across political parties believed the mosque’s proximity to Ground Zero was inappropriate.

A CNN poll from August 2010 showed nationwide opposition at 68%, including majorities among Democrats (54%), Republicans (82%), and Independents (70%). Similarly, an Economist/YouGov survey found overall opposition at 57.9%, with Republicans more resistant (88.3%) than Democrats (41%).

Within New York City, a June Quinnipiac University poll reported 52% opposed the project versus 31% in favor; Manhattan showed greater support at 46%. Staten Island registered the highest opposition at 73%. Opposition was markedly stronger among Republicans compared to Democrats.

A Marist poll conducted from late July to early August 2010 found citywide disapproval at 53%, while Manhattan residents favored it by 53%. By September, Marist observed an increase in support to 41%, notably among African Americans, liberals, Democrats, and Bronx residents.

State-level polling demonstrated New Yorkers opposed the center by margins near 61–26%, with majorities from both Republican and Democratic voters. Conservative and moderate groups largely opposed it as well, whereas liberals showed more division.

Some surveys addressed constitutional rights related to Park51’s construction. A late August Quinnipiac poll revealed that 54% agreed Muslims had the right to build a mosque near Ground Zero. A similar Fox News poll found that 61% supported the developers’ constitutional rights, including majorities across party lines. The Economist/YouGov poll indicated about half of respondents endorsed constitutional protections for such construction, with Democrats and Independents generally supportive and Republicans predominantly opposed.

The Economist/YouGov findings also showed that 52% of Americans believe Muslims should be permitted to erect mosques anywhere in the U.S. where other faiths can establish places of worship; meanwhile, 34% considered some locations unsuitable for mosques, and 14% opposed mosque construction anywhere in the country.

Opposition

The plan to establish a mosque near the Ground Zero location triggered backlash, as some perceived it as offensive due to the attackers on September 11 being Muslim. Critics described Park51 as a "symbolic triumph for Islamic extremists".

9/11 families

Multiple family members of September 11 victims voiced that situating the site close to Ground Zero was insensitive, prioritizing respect for those lost over debates about religious freedom or property rights. The organization 9/11 Families for a Safe & Strong America condemned the project as "a profound insult to the memory of those who perished". Co-founder Debra Burlingame remarked:

This location is just 600 feet [180 m] from where nearly 3,000 individuals were killed by Islamic extremists ... it is extraordinarily insensitive and audacious ... to construct a mosque ... endorsing shariah law which terrorists invoke as justification ... that is an affront to me.

Sally Regenhard, who lost her firefighter son, termed the center "a desecration on hallowed ground", emphasizing sensitivity rather than allegations of racism. Former NYFD Deputy Chief Jim Riches opposed the mosque’s placement out of respect for families. Michael Burke prioritized decency over legal rights, describing the mosque’s proximity to Ground Zero as "remarkably insensitive".

C. Lee Hanson, who lost several relatives, expressed that building an Islamic tribute so nearby would cause continual distress: "Construct it elsewhere." Rosemary Cain referred to the project as "an affront on sacred ground". Nancy Nee characterized it as "almost like a trophy" and "arrogant".

Evelyn Pettigano objected due to its closeness to where her sister died. Dov Shefi likened establishing a mosque there to desecration, questioning why this specific site was selected. Cindy McGinty expressed skepticism about funding transparency and sensitivity regarding the project. Barry Zelman pointed out terrorists acted under Islam’s banner and opposed placing a mosque near Ground Zero.

Rosaleen Tallon-DaRos along with firefighter Tim Brown also advocated against situating the mosque at this location. Maureen Basnicki criticized the project’s message as compounding injury with insult.

Muslims

The proposal to establish an Islamic community center near Ground Zero encountered opposition from certain Muslim individuals. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community did not object to the mosque itself but highlighted the importance of respecting non-Muslim perspectives, suggesting that alternative sites were available. Their leader, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, proposed that if such a mosque were to be constructed there, it should be accompanied by places of worship representing all faiths as a gesture of unity rising from tragedy.

Lulu Schwartz, a Muslim neoconservative journalist and Executive Director of the Center for Islamic Pluralism, contended that situating the center just two blocks from the Ground Zero contradicted Sufi values of modesty and overlooked security concerns voiced by American Muslims. She also criticized Abdul Rauf for his connections to radical elements.

Zuhdi Jasser, founder of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy and member of the Center for Islamic Pluralism, opposed the initiative, asserting that mosques should serve solely as prayer spaces rather than political statements. He maintained that Ground Zero should not be used to promote Islam and cautioned that the organizers advanced Islamist objectives under moderate appearances.

Neda Bolourchi, a Muslim who lost her mother during 9/11, expressed apprehension that the mosque could be interpreted as a symbol of triumph for militant Muslims globally.

Board members of the Muslim Canadian Congress, authors Raheel Raza and Tarek Fatah, pointed out that New York already hosts more than 30 mosques and viewed the project as a deliberate provocation violating Quranic injunctions against causing discord. They lamented the disregard shown toward fellow citizens' feelings.

Akbar Ahmed, holder of the Ibn Khaldun Chair of Islamic Studies at American University, observed that Muslim leaders underestimated the enduring emotional impact 9/11 has had on Americans. He remarked that the wounds remain fresh, making construction near Ground Zero comparable to adding salt to them.

Abdul Rahman Al-Rashid, general manager of Al-Arabiya television, criticized the plan in Asharq Al-Awsat, stating that Muslims do not desire a mosque adjacent to the 9/11 memorial and that most opposition originates from non-Muslim Americans.

Rima Fakih, crowned Miss USA in 2010 and the first Muslim-American to hold the title, opposed the project as being insensitive toward families affected by 9/11. While supporting constitutional religious freedoms, she argued that such a mosque should not be situated so close to the World Trade Center site.

Politicians

Numerous U.S. politicians voiced opposition to the Park51 initiative. Arizona Senator John McCain, who was the Republican presidential nominee in 2008, stated it "would harm relations, rather than help," with his vice-presidential pick Sarah Palin expressing criticism of supporters via Twitter. Additional opponents included former Massachusetts Governor and 2012 Republican presidential hopeful 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 candidate Ilario Pantano described the mosque as a "Martyr–Marker honoring the terrorists."

Republican former House Speaker Newt Gingrich denounced the project as an aggressive gesture, condemning its name "Cordoba House" as emblematic of Islamic conquest. Gingrich argued against any mosque near Ground Zero unless churches or synagogues are permitted in Saudi Arabia, likening the center’s presence there to placing a Nazi symbol beside the Holocaust Museum. Prominent New York Republicans such as ex-Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Congressman Peter T. King, former Governor George Pataki, and former Congressman Rick Lazio also opposed the plan. Gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino pledged to invoke eminent domain to replace the center with a war memorial if elected.

New York Republican Congressional candidate George Demos advocated prioritizing reconstruction of the destroyed St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church before approving any Islamic center and called for an investigation into how the project was financed.

New York City Council Member Dan Halloran, whose cousin perished on 9/11, was among the first local officials to publicly oppose the project, emphasizing respect for the site's sanctity. Paul Sipos from Manhattan Community Board 1 compared selecting this location to insensitive acts near Pearl Harbor or Auschwitz.

The National Republican Trust Political Action Committee aired a television advertisement opposing the proposal, declaring "we Americans will be heard."

Among Democrats, Independent Senator Joe Lieberman recommended pausing construction until further assessment regarding its effects on families impacted by 9/11 and funding transparency could be completed. New York Democratic Assemblyman and Attorney-General candidate Richard Brodsky found it offensive, acknowledging that although perpetrators acted in Islam’s name, most Muslims reject their actions.

Democratic Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid supported relocating the mosque elsewhere to avoid deepening divisions. Democratic National Committee chairman and former Vermont Governor Howard Dean described it as "a real affront" to victims’ families and urged sensitivity beyond legal rights.

New York Democratic Representatives expressed concerns about placing the mosque at Ground Zero: Michael E. McMahon opposed building on that site and called for dialogue with community leaders; Steve Israel recognized constitutional rights but urged greater empathy; and Tim Bishop emphasized Ground Zero’s sacredness and suggested seeking a less contentious location while affirming constitutional protections.

Organizations

Tim Brown, a firefighter from New York City, voiced opposition to the project, expressing worries about financial backing from nations governed by shariah law. To demand transparency regarding the project's funding sources, Brown collaborated with the American Center for Law & Justice (ACLJ), a conservative legal organization founded by Pat Robertson that champions Christian rights. Peter Ferrara, serving as General Counsel for the American Civil Rights Union, condemned the mosque, viewing it as a symbol of Muslim domination due to its construction on a site formerly occupied by a Christian church.

More than 20,000 individuals signed an online petition opposing the Committee to Stop the Ground Zero Mosque and attempted, albeit unsuccessfully, to secure landmark status for the location to hinder construction efforts.

Richard Land, who leads the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, objected to situating a mosque close to Ground Zero because of its connection to those responsible for 9/11. Additionally, Bill Rench, pastor at the nearby Calvary Baptist Church, voiced his opposition to the development.

The Zionist Organization of America challenged both Park51's chosen site and Abdul Rauf’s leadership role. Likewise, the Simon Wiesenthal Center, which manages the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles and Jerusalem, opposed the mosque’s location. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) initially expressed resistance to Park51’s proximity to the World Trade Center but reversed their stance in 2021, admitting their prior opposition was in error.

Mark Williams, representing the conservative Tea Party movement, described the project as a tribute to terrorist attacks and disparaged its religious intent. Subsequently, he was removed from the National Tea Party Federation due to racially offensive comments unrelated to this matter.

The Dove World Outreach Center also stood against the construction of Park51.

Additional Perspectives

Political analyst Daniel Pipes stood against establishing any Islamist entity, though he did not object to the presence of a genuinely moderate Muslim organization near Ground Zero. British satirist Pat Condell expressed criticism of Park51 in a video, describing it as a symbol of Islamic triumphalism and cautioning that it might lead to a decline in U.S. liberties similar to what has been observed in Europe. Commentator Charles Krauthammer also voiced opposition, suggesting the facility could serve as a hub for Islamic extremism.

On August 9, 2010, Greg Gutfeld revealed intentions to launch New York City's inaugural Islamic-friendly gay bar adjacent to the planned center. He stressed this initiative was a genuine attempt to foster outreach and diminish homophobia within Islamic communities, affirming the mosque developers' legitimate rights and aiming to dismantle social prejudices.

Advocacy

Proponents of the project maintained that the Park51 structure would not be visible from the World Trade Center site. Several victims and their families expressed support for the initiative, recognizing that Muslims were among the casualties of 9/11.

Families of 9/11 Victims

A number of relatives who lost loved ones in 9/11 endorsed the project. Colleen Kelley, who mourned her brother William, underscored the common belief in God shared by Jews, Christians, and Muslims as a foundation for support. Orlando and Phyllis Schaefer Rodriguez, parents of a son killed in the attacks, believed the center would serve as a tribute to their son and other victims.

Herb Ouida, who lost his son Todd, opposed condemning an entire faith or barring Muslims from praying near the World Trade Center, emphasizing unity rather than division. Marvin Bethea, a former EMS responder affected by conditions at the 9/11 site, identified racism as influencing the dispute and rejected animosity toward Muslims.

Donna O'Connor, who lost her pregnant daughter on 9/11, interpreted the building as a representation of Americans’ refusal to hold innocent individuals accountable for others’ wrongdoing.

Ted Olson, former Solicitor General under President George W. Bush and widower of a 9/11 victim, supported the organizers’ right to construct the center while cautioning against transforming acts of hatred into religious intolerance.

Bruce Wallace, whose nephew perished aiding victims during 9/11, criticized media coverage for emphasizing opposition while overlooking those who viewed the center as a positive development.

Judith Keane, who lost her husband in the attacks, argued that penalizing peaceful Americans for others’ actions is unjust and stems from fear of difference.

Talat Hamdani, mother of a first responder killed on 9/11, co-authored an article endorsing pluralism and constitutional freedoms. She warned that prohibiting one religion could open doors to wider religious discrimination and rejected blaming Muslims for terrorism.

The anti-war organization September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows supported the center as embodying interfaith tolerance aligned with American principles of freedom and justice. They described it as a symbol opposing violence, intolerance, and racism.

Terry Rockefeller, whose sister died on 9/11, stated that the center honors New York City and American ideals. Sue Rosenblum, who lost her son at the World Trade Center, emphasized that opposing the center promotes hatred contrary to America’s foundational commitment to religious liberty.

Politicians

During the White House Iftar dinner on August 13, 2010, President Barack Obama affirmed the legal right of Muslims to establish the Islamic center near Ground Zero. He stressed the importance of equal religious freedoms under local laws but clarified that he was not commenting on whether the chosen location was prudent.

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg expressed strong backing for the initiative, describing Ground Zero as an especially fitting site for a mosque to symbolize religious liberty in America. He opposed any governmental obstruction of religious expression and cautioned that capitulating to opponents would effectively grant a victory to terrorists. Bloomberg also dismissed concerns regarding the developers’ backgrounds, emphasizing protections guaranteed by the First Amendment.

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

Representative Nadler pointed out that a Muslim prayer area exists at the Pentagon—another site targeted in the 9/11 attacks—without sparking controversy. This space functions as a mussallaah with regular Muslim worship services, exemplifying established accommodations for religious practices near sensitive locations.

Republican Senator Orrin Hatch endorsed the project on grounds of religious liberty, drawing comparisons to past opposition against Mormon temples. Congressman Ron Paul denounced Islamophobia as fueling much of the dispute, underscoring First Amendment rights and property ownership protections.

Representative Keith Ellison, the first Muslim member of Congress, together with Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, supported the center on principles of religious tolerance and separating Islam from acts of terrorism.

Former advisors to President Bush, Mark McKinnon and Michael Gerson, criticized Republican resistance as reinforcing extremist propaganda and weakening efforts against terrorism.

Mahmoud al-Zahar, a leader within Hamas, voiced support for mosque construction everywhere, portraying it as a religious entitlement comparable to holy sites in other faiths.

Former President Bill Clinton endorsed Park51, highlighting that numerous Muslims perished during the 9/11 attacks and suggesting that dedicating the center to Muslim victims might help ease tensions.

Ex-Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura defended the mosque’s constitutional right under the First Amendment, warning that denying it would violate protections designed to safeguard unpopular speech regardless of public sentiment.

Organizations

Ibrahim Hooper, Communications Director for the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), described the controversy as "manufactured" by "bigots," noting opposition came from a vocal minority. CAIR Executive Director Nihad Awad dismissed Republican Congressman Peter King’s stance as "extreme." Journalist and Newsweek contributor Fareed Zakaria, also a host on CNN, strongly supported the project and returned a 2005 Anti-Defamation League (ADL) award in protest against their opposition. He characterized Imam Rauf as a moderate Muslim who consistently condemns terrorism.

The Muslim Public Affairs Council also expressed support for the initiative. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), while condemning anti-Muslim prejudice, criticized certain opposition elements as bigoted but suggested considering an alternative location out of respect for families affected by 9/11. In reaction, Zakaria returned his ADL award and associated prize money.

Jewish advocacy group J Street supported construction based on principles of religious freedom. Both the New York Civil Liberties Union and the American Civil Liberties Union endorsed the project, citing foundational religious liberty values. The Interfaith Alliance backed the effort while calling for transparency regarding funding sources.

A progressive political action committee, Votevets.org, gathered 14,000 signatures in favor of the center, including endorsements from 450 veterans of Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts and 4,000 veterans from other military engagements.

Academia

Mark R. Cohen, who holds the position of professor specializing in Jewish Civilization in the Near East at Princeton University, remarked that mosques such as the one proposed near Ground Zero, functioning both as centers for learning and spaces for worship, contribute to overcoming ignorance.

Rabbi Geoffrey Dennis from the University of North Texas Jewish Studies Program highlighted that religious liberty on private property in Lower Manhattan is essentially absolute.

Boston University academic Stephen Prothero expressed his support for the construction of Cordoba House near Ground Zero, countering opposition viewpoints.

Padraic O'Hare, professor and Director of the Center for the Study of Jewish-Christian-Muslim Relations at Merrimack College, maintained that prayer encourages peace and advocated for the establishment of a Muslim place of worship close to Ground Zero.

In an interview with CNN, Reza Aslan, a creative writing professor at University of California, Riverside, defended Imam Abdul Rauf as one of the most pluralistic religious leaders in America who promotes peace, describing the center as an "American-Muslim" institution comparable to the neighboring Jewish center.

Others

During the 2010 US Open tennis event, Pakistan’s Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi expressed, "As a Muslim, this is what makes America the greatest nation in the world – freedom of religion, freedom of speech. If the mosque is constructed, it would represent a meaningful gesture to Muslims worldwide."

See also

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

External links

• Park51 Community Center
• Park51 on Twitter
• Collected news and commentary at The New York Times
• Images Of N.Y. Islamic Center Meant To 'Educate' – audio report by NPR
• Collected news and commentary at the History News Network of George Mason University