Space to Be Set Aside for Muslim Prayers at Jersey Sports Facilities

November 22, 2005

Source: Newsday

Wire Service: AP

http://www.newsday.com/news/local/wire/newjersey/ny-bc-nj--giantsstadium-mus1122nov22,0,3421834.story?coll=ny-region-apnewjersey

On November 22, 2005 the Associated Press reported, "The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority says it will provide a special area for anyone who wants a place to pray while at [the] Giants Stadium or the Continental Airlines Arena - a reaction to Muslim groups' outcries after several fans who prayed at a New York Giants game were detained and questioned by the FBI in September. Sohail Mohammed, the lawyer for the Totowa-based American Muslim Union, met Sunday with officials from the sports authority, the FBI and private companies that work at the Meadowlands to educate them about Islam and the cultural and religious practices of Muslims. Five Muslim men attending the Sept. 19 Giants game against the New Orleans Saints were detained and questioned for about a half hour by the FBI after they were observed praying at the stadium... The men were allowed to return to the stadium, but in different seats, and were escorted to their cars when they left. George Zoffinger, the sports authority president, said space will be set aside at the stadium and the arena for anyone of any faith who wishes to pray. The exact spots have not yet been designated, he said... Mohammed said sports authority staff said they also may extend prayer areas to the Meadowlands Racetrack."