WHYS live from Ground Zero
| 14:08 UK time, Wednesday, 8 September 2010
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Our plan is to start at Ground Zero with a construction worker, pass by a bar where many police and fire staff like to hang out, before walking to where the cultural centre will be and talking to customers at supermarket across the road.
Imam Faisal Abdul Rauf says the debate has become about Islam in America, and what Islam means for America - rather than about one building. Few would disagree with him on that front and we'll get into those issues.
One thought: Ron Paul, the Republican from Texas, argues Park 51 must go ahead as it's vital minorities are protected from the will of the majority. The counter-argument is that minorities must show respect to and a willingness to compromise with the majority. France and the restrictions Muslim women's attire is held up as an example to back up this latter argument.
Islam aside, and I appreciate putting Islam aside in this discussion isn't easy, there are broader issues here about how societies balance the beliefs and traditions of majorities and minorities. I'd be interested to get into that with you over the next few days.
IF YOU'RE IN NEW YORK AND WOULD LIKE TO MEET UP WITH US FOR ONE OF OUR BROADCASTS...
...just drop me a line and we'll make a plan.
