Theo Jobst of Birmingham, U.K.:
Theo Jobst (photo by Wes Ellis)
“Aside from being a horrifying act of violence, it worries me that an attack like this could promote a rise in nationalism at a time when the country is in a state of political unrest. The question of immigration and security can play such a swaying factor in politics, and it would be disgraceful if an act of terror like this might be used to further a political agenda when people have lost their lives and the country is in a state of shock and mourning. The support which has been shown by the people of Manchester and the rest of the country predominantly shows the opposite to that, which is heartwarmingly comforting, but there is always the potential that fear and anger can be perpetuated by those wishing to manipulate the electorate.”
Victoria Mitchell of Sedgley:
“My thoughts and prayers go out to the families, especially the ones who lost children, as it was such a waste of innocent life. Also, as I feel angry at the attack I am also proud of the way the people of Manchester pulled together in the crisis — a Muslim taxi driver started offering free lifts so people who were stranded could get to their families, and others followed suit — a Sikh temple offered free food and beds, hotels offered free accommodation as did ordinary people using the #Roomformanchester, and cafes offered free food and tea to emergency services. The effect of the 22 dead will be tremendous for their loved ones, however, the attack failed to break the country and if anything made us stronger and made us realise the need for a strong community and gives me hope that people will pull together in a crisis rather than be pulled apart. I am so angry and sad that this happened, but I am heartened and proud of the way the situation was handled.”
Sophie West of East Sussex:
“I’m worried because it’s so close to home and sadly it can happen anywhere at any time. We all need to support each other in every country. The thing that makes me sad is when my Facebook friends blame our country for letting in refugees, (and) blaming religions … before they even know the story. The people who cause these terrorist acts are clearly messed up people but we shouldn’t generalize people based on their race or religion.”
Laura Savage of London:
“It’s scary being so close to home and knowing people living or studying in Manchester. These things are awful no matter where they happen and affect us globally; being over here has really driven that home.”
Alicia Bacon of Leicester U.K. (former NCC student):
Alicia Bacon
“Solidarity of the people in the Manchester area is stronger than ever, people are offering help, transport and even opening their homes to those affected. I think standing together as the people are makes them stronger than the lone bomber.”
Sam Humphrey of Colchester Essex:
“It’s scary it being so close to a lot of our families and friends. It was scary to read about it as it was happening, but our thoughts are with everyone in England at the moment.”
