And if the imam and the Muslim leadership in that community is so intent on building bridges, then they should voluntarily move the mosque away from ground zero and move it whether it's uptown or somewhere else, but move it away from that area, the same as the pope directed the Carmelite nuns to move a convent away from Auschwitz.

The quote by Peter T. King addresses the controversy surrounding the construction of a mosque near Ground Zero in New York City. King argues that if the imam and Muslim leadership in the community are genuinely committed to building bridges and fostering understanding, they should consider relocating the mosque to a different location. This, he suggests, would demonstrate sensitivity to the emotional impact on victims and families affected by the 9/11 attacks.

King draws a historical parallel by referencing the Pope directing Carmelite nuns to move a convent away from Auschwitz, illustrating that relocating religious institutions near sites of tragedy is an established precedent. The comparison emphasizes the importance of symbolic gestures in maintaining respect and reconciliation in sensitive contexts.

The origin of this statement comes from King’s role as a U.S. Congressman and a public figure involved in post-9/11 political and security discussions. His remarks reflect the tensions and debates over religious freedom, community sensitivities, and national memory that arose after the attacks, highlighting the political and cultural dimensions of such controversies.

In essence, the quote underscores the idea that respect, sensitivity, and bridge-building are critical when religious institutions intersect with sites of historical trauma. King advocates for actions that demonstrate empathy while balancing religious rights with the emotional concerns of affected communities.