New York, August 3, 2010 – Today, September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows, a nationwide group founded by family members of those killed on 9/11, released the following statement in response to the Landmarks Commission decision on the property where a Muslim community center is planned.

[(September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows is pleased that the NYC Landmarks Commission has conducted a thorough review of the status of the building at 45-47 Park Place and has ruled to permit the building of the planned community center.

As family members who paid the ultimate price on 9/11 we truly understand and share the grief suffered by all those who also lost loved ones; however, we will not allow our grief to give way to intolerance and bigotry.

We must never forget that Muslims were among those murdered on that day: Muslims at work in the towers, and Muslims who as first responders lost their lives while saving the lives of others. Muslim Americans have earned and deserve the right to participate in the rebuilding of lower Manhattan.

The establishment of the Islamic Cultural Center will show the world that interfaith tolerance and respect continues to be among the highest of American ideals, consistent with the fundamental values of our Constitution.

We believe that our nation’s support of the peacemaking Muslim communities of the City of New York shows the rest of the world that, as Americans, we stand united against religious intolerance and racism.)]

September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows is an organization founded by family members of those killed on September 11, 2001. Currently comprised of over 200 families, the group advocates nonviolence and adherence to the rule of law in the pursuit of justice and accountability

Contact:
To arrange an interview with a member of September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows, please contact David Lerner or Shonna Carter, Riptide Communications, 212-260-5000 (dlerner@riptideonline.com or shonnac@riptideonline.com).

Source:
Website Peaceful Tomorrows