'World Trade Means World Peace'

By Tom Villars
San Jose, CA

Minoru Yamasaki the architect of the World Trade Center said, "World trade means world peace and consequently the World Trade Center buildings in New York...had a bigger purpose than just to provide room for tenants." The purpose that Mr. Yamasaki spoke of was symbolized in the Twin Towers and unequivocally demonstrated America's commitment to world peace through mutually beneficial trade. To rebuild the Twin Towers is to reaffirm this commitment to world peace through positive engagement with societies around the world. Not rebuilding to the same grandeur sends a message of doubt and isolationism.

And on a practical matter, the economy of lower Manhattan was dependent on the office jobs the Twin Towers made possible. To build the memorial and then see the surrounding area decay form lack of economic activity would be a disgraceful way to honor the many lives lost at the World Trade Center.