LIBTARDITIS : Hundreds gather near UT to show Muslims are welcome in Austin

Attacks against Muslims, immigrants and minorities were denounced Friday afternoon by hundreds who joined together in Austin.



The demonstrators lined up shoulder to shoulder to show they support one another and are trying to stop the spread of hatred and fear. The main goal of the two hour demonstration was to make Muslims feel safe and welcome in the city.


Monica Santis has never heard so many words of thanks repeated so many times.


"It makes me feel happy and humbled and part of a larger community," said Santis.


That larger community stretched in every direction from the Nueces Mosque near the University of Texas campus. Hundreds brought their signs and goodwill to show support for Austin Muslims.


"We're with them. We're, we're here," said Avery Orendorf.


This is the first time Orendorf has taken such a public stand in support of the Muslim community.


"My life is not at stake, but people who I'm close to, people who I love are scared and they need me, they need all of us to stand up for them," said Orendorf.