22nd March marked the 1st anniversary since the atrocious Westminster attack. Khalid Masood ploughed his rented van across Westminster Bridge, killing five people and injuring several other pedestrians before stabbing unarmed PC Keith Palmer to death outside the Houses of Parliaments.
“London United” was projected onto the Houses of Parliament, London Bridge, Finsbury Park Mosque and Parsons Green Tube station on the eve of the one year anniversary. These were the places that were hit by attacks in 2017. #LondonUnited also trended on social media as people posted their tributes online to pay respect to those who lost their lives, while also encouraged the spirit of London to continue to stand tall in unity.
On the occasion, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said, “Over the past 12 months, London has endured a series of horrific terrorist attacks – Westminster, London Bridge, Finsbury Park and Parsons Green. I know that on the anniversary of anniversary of the Westminster attack, all our thoughts are with the families of those who were killed, survivors and everyone affected. We will never forget them, or the bravery of our emergency services and first responders who ran towards danger whilst urging others to safety.”
He further stated, “Londoners will never forget the horrific terror attacks on our city in 2017. These were not only attacks on our city and our country, but on the very heart of our democracy and the values we cherish most – freedom, justice and tolerance.”
A minute's silence was observed at 9:33am, to correspond with the number of slain officer Keith Palmer. Prime Minister Theresa may also stood in silence to pay her respect after laying a floral tribute outside the parliament.
One year on and several attacks later, London stands united, posing as the perfect example to the world that such atrocious attacks will not deter the spirit of London, nor shake up the British democratic beliefs.
