Friday, October 15, 2010

The Hefty Price of "Psychological Terrorism"

A story that has been gaining a lot of public attention lately is Vincent Forras' lawsuit against the developers of the Ground Zero Mosque. Forras, a firefighter who was injured while responding to the 9/11 attacks, claims that the possibility of a ground zero mosque has caused him "psychological terrorism." In order to compensate for his high levels of mental stress, Forras is suing the developers for $350 million. Yes, 350 million dollars. In response, the developers of the Ground Zero Mosque are counter suing Vincent Forras for $50,000. Imam Rauf has referred to Forras' lawsuit as "Blind Bigotry" and is working to dismiss his case against him and the rest of the developers.

Something doesn't seem right here. This guy responded to attacks on 9/11, a time when a nation had no idea what to expect and what was to come. He braved everything to help victims, and he was injured as a result. I respect his willingness to help in such troubled and fearful times. Why didn't he sue for the physical and psychological terrorism he sustained during his response to these attacks? I understand that people can be traumatized psychologically, and Forras' suing of the mosque developers is such an insult to everyone else affected by 9/11 and to those who really want to strengthen our relationship with Muslims and Muslim Americans. Whether or not people agree with the development of the mosque is not the issue, claiming that the proposal of this center as "psychological terrorism" and suing for this much money is unjustified. True "psychological terrorism" cannot be cured with a multi-million dollar paycheck.

I googled "Vincent Forras," and the first listing was http://www.vincentforras.com. When I visited the site, I was directed to a site that was under maintenance and was supposed to be done on September 17 of this year. The site was sure to list a number that people could call for "media and bookings information," and was sure to state that the purpose of the new site was for the Vincent Forras Legal Defense Fund. It sounds like Mr. Forras is trying to raise money for his legal fees and for support for his case while gaining media attention at the same time.

I suspected that Mr. Forras had a Facebook page since he seems to be asking for attention on his website. I found his page, and, on there, I learned some interesting things about Vincent. One thing I learned is that he is running for Senator of Connecticut. I'm sure that $350 million would come in handy here. The following is a status update he wrote:

 

Vincent Forras If I am considered a "blind bigot" by the Imam promoting the Ground Zero Mosque does that make me a "FAIR" bigot? Since JUSTICE is BLIND, then this guy is giving me a "left-handed" compliment? We the people will NOT be intimidated by name calling and resorting to petty personal attacks. Let discovery begin and lets follow the money!!!!


If that doesn't explain what Mr. Forras is after, I don't know what does. Blatantly saying "let's follow the money" doesn't seem to  help his case. Plus, this lawsuit is all about his "psychological terrorism." Why does he feel the need to involve the people? I'm sure it's because this is all a part of his political platform. 

Vincent also started the "Gear Up Foundation." Here is the banner on his website:
Notice how Vinny doesn't say where this money is going. When, I clicked the "Donate" box, I was directed to a PayPal account. It just seems like another way Vinny is trying to get money for his campaign. I can't see how people would want to donate without knowing where this money is going.

Vinny's story goes back to what I have said about  Andy Sullivan's story. Yes, they are working class individuals. I respect those who work hard to make a living, but Andy and Vinny seem to be out for their own interest and they exploit patriotism for their own personal gain. Isn't this "psychological terrorism" in itself? These people are exploiting one's love for this country to make money, and they're also defaming a religion and a cultural center as a result. If these people who donate to and support these campaigns find out that their money is for personal gain and not for the good of the country, aren't they "psychologically terrorized?".  It's funny that some see race and religion as a such a barricade between people, but psychological terrorism has no boundaries.

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