Muslim women form human chain in London to show solidarity with Westminster attack victims
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Woman gathered at the scene of last Wednesday's terror attack in Westminster and linked arms as a show of solidarity with its victims., reported Mirror
Wearing blue as a symbol of hope, the women said emotions were "overwhelming" as they stood on the bridge where pedestrians were mown down by 52-year-old terrorist Khalid Masood .
They formed a human chain by holding hands for five minutes as Big Ben chimed at 4pm.
People from a range of backgrounds joined the event, organised by Women's March On London.
Three members of the public died and many more were injured after Masood sped along the bridge before storming the parliamentary estate and stabbing PC Keith Palmer to death.
Fariha Khan, 40, a GP from Surbiton, said: "The feeling of what happened here on Wednesday was really strong.
"We thought of the ordinary people who were here and were mown down, standing here like this, it was very overwhelming."
She was joined by fellow Ahmadiyya Muslims who said they wanted to add to the condemnation of the violent attack and stand defiant in the face of terrorism .
Sarah Waseem, 57, from Surrey, said: "When an attack happens in London, it is an attack on me.
"It is an attack on all of us. Islam totally condemns violence of any sort. This is abhorrent to us."
Being present for the demonstration shows people in the city are united in support of democracy, said Ayesha Malik.
The 34-year-old mother-of-two, also from Surrey, said: "As a visible Muslim I think it was important to show solidarity with the principles that we all hold dear, the principles of plurality, diversity and so on."
Londoner Mary Bennett said she was present to make a "small gesture".
The retired healthcare worker said: "I am here to show that in a quiet way we continue to go where we like and do what we like in London.
"This is my city. It's a very small gesture but life is made up of small gestures."
Earlier this week, the family of PC Keith Palmer paid emotional tribute to the father and husband.
In a statement they said: "We have been overwhelmed by the love and support for our family and most especially the outpouring of love and respect for our Keith."
“We want to thank everyone who has reached out to us over the past few days for their kindness and generosity.
“The police have been a constant, unwavering support and this very difficult time.
“It has made us realise what a caring, strong and supporting family Keith was part of during his career with the police. We can’t thank them enough.
“We would also like to express our gratitude to the people who were with Keith in his last moments and who were working that day. There was nothing more you could have done.
“You did your best and we are just grateful he was not alone. We care about him being remembered for his selfless bravery and loving nature.
“We miss him so much, but we are also incredibly proud of Keith.”
