Media Matters Daily Summary 08-16-10

Fox News on religious freedom: There are already "a bunch" of mosques in New York
In an effort to defend against charges that opposition to the building of Park51, an Islamic cultural center and mosque near Ground Zero is an affront to the principle of religious freedom, Fox News figures, led by Newt Gingrich, have argued that there are already "a whole bunch" of mosques in New York City.
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Right-wing blogs falsely claim Avastin issue is example of government "rationing"
Following reports that a panel of cancer experts recommended that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) consider revoking approval of the drug Avastin for advanced breast cancer, right-wing blogs have attempted to portray the debate as cost-driven rationing of health care. However, the FDA does not consider cost in its decisions, and studies have shown that Avastin -- which was given "accelerated approval" in 2008 with the requirement that further studies confirm its benefits -- has serious side effects without significantly prolonging life.
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Experts say anti-Muslim rhetoric undermines struggle against extremism
Foreign policy experts have warned that anti-Muslim rhetoric surrounding the planned Islamic cultural center and mosque in New York City threatens to undermine anti-terrorism efforts. Moreover, the Bush administration maintained that it is "very important that we show the world that America is a very tolerant and diverse society where people are welcome to practice their faith." Read More

Conservative media falsely claim mosque opponents not talking about restricting religious freedom
Right-wing media have responded to President Obama's comments that he "believe[s] that Muslims have the same right to practice their religion as everyone else in this country" by falsely claiming that opponents of the proposed Islamic community center in Lower Manhattan have not talked about restricting Muslims' religious freedom. In fact, opponents have advocated using government intervention to restrict construction of the center or have asserted that the planners don't have a right to build it at the proposed location.
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