Comment: A Sott editor goes to Wall Street to do a photo essay on the Occupy Wall Street (OWS) situation:


Over the weekend, I went to the OWS demonstration and they surely didn't disappoint. Saturday's group was organized and calm as four building to sidewalk blocks were taken up with the group. Although there was a fire in their bellies, they showed a dignified grace under pressure as they walked flanked by police officers on foot, motorcycles and black SUV's.

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© Sott.netSomeone taking videos of bystanders.

Due to some confusion by the onlookers as to where the crowd was heading, I was encouraged to see one young man who was in front giving directions with hand signals. He informed me of their March on the Banks as part of their Global Day of Action, that they were heading over to Chase and would be doing the same with other financial institutions. The group surrounded the institution on Maiden Lane and Fletcher Street chanting slogans and then headed off again.

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What sets this political gathering apart from others was how people of all ages with varied concerns are coming together to give voice to their frustrations. One Veteran (pictures below) who stood out from the crowd was dissatisfied with how those who have risked life and limb for their country were now struggling to make ends meet due to cutbacks. Some younger citizens interests lay with the one percent having control over the ninety-nine as well as the future of children in lacking adequate education. Others protested fracking and at least one was concerned with the information surrounding the purported facts of 911. It wasn't lost on me that this demonstration takes place two blocks from the World Trade Center. If they only knew...

Although I doubt they are aware of ponerology in its deepest sense, it was great to see that for once, people are not distracted by petty differences.

In fact, I spoke with one of the community members at the info desk about whether they were aware of historic tactics regarding infiltration of various groups. He said they were quite aware of it from other protests in the past and they dealt with it by notifying the group - the use of networking - and being non responsive to what was said. They realized that they couldn't really throw those individuals out of the park but were under the impression of a few that might be suspect. It was gratifying to see and hear that they were aware of and on the lookout for such tactics. It was also heartwarming to see that quite a few 'elders' were there to school the younger ones.

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Various members of the press and other interested parties surrounded the perimeter. Some conducted interviews with protesters, community volunteers and anyone else willing to have their voices heard - which seemed to be everyone!

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While some were marching through the streets, many others were offering support at home base, Zuccotti Park. Some were fielding the press. Others were organizing and in general making living conditions more pleasant for everyone.

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© Sott.netDishwashing station.
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© Sott.netDishwashing station.
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Although they have experienced thefts, the spirit of hospitality continues to shine and is reflected in monetary and grocery/meal donations as well as food cooked off site. While the menu is mostly vegan (in an attempt to respect the religious guidelines of some, I was told) meat is the first to go quickly and donations of it are more than welcome.

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© Sott.netFood pantry.
In addition to music, sewing and hair cutting areas, they have a hand rolled cigarette station and a library. All done through donations and volunteers. What is also amazing is that all services rendered in the park are accessible to the general public. If you are hungry, they feed you. If you need clothes, they supply them no questions asked. If you want to help, they gladly welcome you. A true spirit of giving.

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© Sott.netThe library.
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© Sott.netThe colder temperatures inspired this woman to knit hats for others. She's been at Zuccotti park for 18 days now and has received donations of yarn from passersby.
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© Sott.netSculpture.
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© Sott.netFree t-shirt silkscreening.
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© Sott.netInterpretation of protest, Lego style.
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© Sott.netInterpretive dance.
Workshops are available to all whether there for a day or for the long haul.

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Despite the constant presence of police and their attempts to cordon off the park, the members which include people of all ages, races, creed and religions remain remarkably upbeat and committed and continue to join together to support one another in expressing concerns that touch us all.

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© Sott.netRaging Grannies and their Daughters.
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If this is what community looks like, then I want in. What makes this so amazing is that all of this is made possible through the work of volunteers and charitable gifts. Regardless of whether or not they are eventually co opted, Occupy Wall Street is setting the bar for what life should be - a gathering of hearts and minds that are taking responsibility for their own existence and standing firm in the face of encroaching fascism.

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