Future hostages in Australia have started #illRideWithYou, pledging support for Muslims

(NBC) Twitter users pledged their support for Australian Muslims facing a possible backlash as a suspected Islamist gunman took hostages in a Sydney cafe. The hashtag #IllRideWithYou trended globally as unconfirmed reports suggest that women in traditional Muslim dress had been intimidated on public transport in Sydney. Australian Muslim leaders also released a statement condemning the cafe siege, calling it a "despicable act."

If you reg take the #373 bus b/w Coogee/MartinPl, wear religious attire, & don’t feel safe alone: I’ll ride with you. @ me for schedule.
— Sir Tessa (@sirtessa) December 15, 2014

Anyone in religious dress on any of the buses that go through Newtown, Sydney in the morning? #illridewithyou
— Paul Murton (@Paul_Murton) December 15, 2014

In times like these we should stand together in unity, not isolate because of race, culture or religion #illridewithyou
— Arsalan Ahmad Khan (@ArsalanTWIT) December 15, 2014

I hardly ever use public transport because I live in the bush, but if I ever do #illridewithyou
— Outlandish Grinch (@OutlandishMemes) December 15, 2014

Twitter, like humanity, can be cruel and inane but it can also be generous and inspiring. #illridewithyou
— Sarfraz Manzoor (@sarfrazmanzoor) December 15, 2014

They are just ordinary, innocent people, no one deserve to be held hostage like that #illridewithyou #PrayForSydneyHostages
— Sonya (@Sonyachand_) December 15, 2014

I really hope people open their hearts and minds around the world. #Australia, you have made me proud #illridewithyou
— Ufaq Ashfaque (@Ganache007) December 15, 2014