Times Square rally protests Trump immigration policies

New York, Feb 20 (IANS) More than a thousand people of various faiths rallied in New York City in support of Muslim Americans and to protest President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.

The "I Am A Muslim Too" rally was held at Times Square on Sunday and organised by several groups, including the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding, ABC News reported.

The protesters waved American flags, held signs saying "No Muslim Ban", and chanted "We are One".

Democratic Mayor Bill de Blasio said at the peaceful rally: "We have to dispel the stereotypes and America is a country founded to protect all faiths and all beliefs."

Hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons said the Muslim community was being used as a scapegoat, but "diversity will prevail".

Trump has initiated a crackdown on illegal immigration. He has called for a temporary ban on people entering the US from seven Muslim majority countries.