After months of remaining mute on the subject, Governor Paterson, last Tuesday, decided to speak out.
“I think it’s rather clear that building a center there meets all the requirements, but it does seem to ignite an immense amount of anxiety among the citizens of New York and people everywhere, and I think not without cause,” Paterson said.
The Governor then suggested finding “state-owned land” on which the Cordoba Initiative might consider building their cultural center.
Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, in response, said, “I am a strong believer in freedom of religion and therefore I will not oppose construction of the mosque at the location currently proposed but there should be sensitivities to the deep feelings surrounding this issue.”
State Senator Daniel Squadron though, spoke more freely on the subject and pointed out the perhaps hidden agendas of those who have adopted the issue as a campaign talking point.
“The Governor is welcome to say what he thinks is best,” said Squadron. “But my view is they obviously have every right to be here and Lower Manhattan welcomes diversity.”
Squadron went on to opine on what he believes is the real reason the issue has gained so much national press.
“Frankly the whole issue in my view is being pushed by right-wing partisan political strategists. It’s a classic right-wing playbook [move] in a election year, which is to divide and terrify.”
The senator had a litany of examples to back up is opinion.
“In 2008 it was Obama’s citizenship. In 2006 it was immigration. In 2004 it was the Swift Boats. And then in 1988 it was Willie Horton. Every August, in an election year, you can make sure the right wing will find a boogey man and try and divide the country,” Squadron said.
“Unfortunately it’s not about winning the battle [concerning Park51]. It’s about winning November elections. The community has been clear. This is not a real issue, this is a right-wing partisan issue.”
