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Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Westminster attack: Social media unites with #WeAreNotAfraid and #prayforlondon

Social media users around the world have united in a show of support for the people of Britain following the terror attack in London.

As the scale of the incident became clear, driven by pictures and video of the horrors in Westminster being shared, #prayforlondon and #WeAreNotAfraid became top trends on Twitter.

There was unity in terms of condemnation, with many appealing for the actions of a single man not to divide society.

But others chose to point the finger of blame at Islamic extremism, despite a lack of confirmation of the identity of the attacker.

The vast majority preferred to offer their condolences to those killed and injured and praise the bravery of the emergency services.

:: Live updates: Death toll rises in Westminster attack

One user, @RodBishop15, wrote: "Twitter 2 short 4 me to express my outrage at today's #Westminster attack and my admiration for our police officers #parliament #prayforlondon."

There was debate too as media commentator and talkRADIO host Julia Hartley-Brewer sparked a backlash - as well as support - from a post requesting people stop "all this #prayforlondon nonsense", arguing "it's these bloody stupid beliefs that help create this violence in the first place."

She responded to her critics by adding: "Prayers don't solve anything".

As Londoners reported they were safe and well, others struck a defiant tone by saying people were not cowering from the spectre of terrorism as night fell.

@HillyFoz said: "London's just going about its business. Pubs and theatres still full. Trains packed. Everyone looks a little sadder but #WeAreNotAfraid."

Others were more concerned that the attack would be used by politicians as justification for curbing freedoms.

@TerriPaddock wrote: "Dear Americans & Trump fans. #prayforlondon if you want but don't use us to justify racism & religious hatred. #WeAreNotAfraid #Westminster.

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