Did Liberals Enable Ground Zero Mosque Opposition?br The New School - The New Schoolbr The clearance by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission for the so-called "Ground Zero mosque" to be built in lower Manhattan received national coverage amidst a raging debate. Initiated by Sarah Palin and Newt Gingrich and then weighed in upon by Mayor Bloomberg and President Obama, the debate focuses on whether Park 51, the 13-story Islamic cultural center, should be allowed to be built so close to 911's Ground Zero.Those who oppose Park 51 argue either that the project is insensitive because Ground Zero is unique and a kind of "hallowed ground," as journalist Charles Krauthammer put it, or that it is politically motivated by an anti-American agenda and should not be treated with the same tolerance as a religious institution. Those defending the Islamic center have been quick to label opponents as bigots and claimed the center will be a bridge to cultural harmony by promoting moderation, non-violence, and diversity.