This past weekend, U. S. Senator Richard Durban (Dem-Ill.) said that those who are opposed to the mosque, which is planned to be built two blocks from the site of New York's ground zero, "are trying to divide the country with fear and hate."

Right on, Senator.

Mr. Durban said last Sunday, "The mayor of New York City, Michael Bloomberg, has given his assent to this center and I support his decision, The politicians like Newt Gingrich and Sarah Palin who try to divide America with fear and hate over this issue betray the diversity which makes our nation great and the Constitution which they profess to honor."

Amen, Senator.

Mr. Durban said, the opponents of the mosque "have also forgotten one of the most fundamental American and constitutional values: our freedom to practice our religion. As President Obama said, 'Muslims have the same right to practice their religion as everyone else in this country and that includes the right to build a place of worship and a community center on private property in Lower Manhattan, in accordance with local laws and ordinances.' "

The Senator is standing up for American values, defending the rights that all American enjoy under the Constitution.