NEW YORK: Thousands of people belonging to various faiths rallied here in support of Muslim Americans and held a protest demonstration against President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.

The protesters waved American flags, held signs saying “No Muslim Ban,” and chanted, “We are one.”

New York’s Mayor Bill de Blasio spoke at the peaceful rally, saying “we have to dispel the stereotypes” and that America is “a country founded to protect all faiths and all beliefs.”

“Regardless of your faith or your background or where you were born, this is your city,” de Blasio said. “And to everybody, this is your country too.

This is your country too. And think about the origins of this country — a country founded by people fleeing religious persecution."

Published in Dawn, February 21st, 2017