Updated: August 26, 2010

You've probably heard about the riotous debate regarding the proposed Islamic cultural center in downtown New York City. Protesters have gathered in lower Manhattan where some believe building a cultural center that they've inaccurately dubbed the "9-11 Mosque" or "Ground Zero Mosque," disrespects the victims of the terrorist attacks by Muslim extremists in 2001.

However, others argue that the center is an example of religious freedom and tolerance, which is the basis of the U.S. Constitution. They also say it has nothing to do with Ground Zero because the cultural center will be a few blocks away.

Even families of 9-11 victims are divided within the debate. Some angrily disagree with the proposed center, which would include a prayer room, while others support the construction of the center and have joined coalitions of civil rights and religious groups to support the cause. Yet, those who are against the construction are very vocal in New York and other states where Muslim communities seek to build public facilities.

The increased intensity of anti-Islamic sentiment, despite the first amendment, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof [...]," raises the question, is America becoming Islamaphobic?

Share your opinion about the controversy below.