The attack on London is already being used to score cheap political points
In the moments after the Westminster attacks on 22 March, the internet buzzed with concern. But it didn’t take long for some people to spot an opportunity to vindicate their own bigotry.
The bigots
In the hours following an attack like Westminster experienced, it pays to be patient. To allow the police and others to proceed with their investigation unmolested, while working through the information systematically. It is not the time to air pet theories and rehash personal opinion as fact. But that didn’t stop these folks.
https://twitter.com/sn0wba111/status/844599900155334656
This tweet hasn't aged well. #London pic.twitter.com/S159bjUxZW
— Paul Joseph Watson (@PrisonPlanet) March 22, 2017
Read on...
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After this horrific slaughter of innocents in #London is NOT the time to defend Radical Islam. Now is the time to #PrayForLondon.
— Democrats for Trump (@YoungDems4Trump) March 22, 2017
UKIP donor Arron Banks thought he’d get in on the action too.
It is important to note that, at this time, the cause and identity of the attacker/s remained unknown. Nevertheless, some people’s first reaction to the suffering of others was to jump on their soap box. And the cheap reaction left many people stunned.
How sick are the racists who suddenly become energised by these situations? Lower than vermin to peddle hate at a time like this. #London
— Jonathon Shafi (@Jonathon_Shafi) March 22, 2017
#London Thoughts with all concerned in this appalling attack… Don't let racists use it to divide us @AntiRacismDayhttps://t.co/IRLYmB98Z7
— Unjum Mirza (@Unjum_Mirza) March 22, 2017
(1)We all know nothing about the perpetrator,but again as always,when such happen these days,big racists mouths online #London #Westminister
— hd (@cridheone) March 22, 2017
Whoever committed the attack, and for whatever purpose, no good is served by turning against each other. There will be many people seeking to gain an advantage from this attack. The government will likely attempt to push through yet more restrictions to civil liberties. Right-wing political parties and groups will attempt to whip the resulting fear into votes and donations. And the mainstream corporate media will likely back them all the way. So it pays to be calm. And it pays to be resolute in our greater values. Only that way will any of us find peace amid the chaos.
You can read The Canary’s coverage of the 22 March attack here.
Featured image via Twitter
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