A protest flag at Occupy Wall Street (all photos by the author) (click to enlarge)
On Friday and Saturday night I traveling to the Occupy Wall Street action in lower Manhattan’s Zuccotti Park to document the signs created by the protesters and their supporters. I was impressed that this small island of protest had quickly created a library and an art station for protesters to share their thoughts with the media and the world. There was also a “vibe wall” where people could post their thoughts online using an iPad.
I came across two Brooklyn performance artists I know. One was acting as a legal advisor for the protesters and other seemed to be hanging out and helping any way he could. The mood was healthy and accepting, and it felt natural to walk around. Only the wall of police surrounding the park gave you a sense that something threatened this symbolic action in the heart of the world’s financial center.
It’s easy to be cynical about people trying something new but I prefer not to be.
All photos taken with my smartphone and Instagram.
so I just want to understand. This movement is about people who have alot of money and those who have alot less?
I think it’s more about the double standard that some people follow the rules and others get to buy themselves out of any repercussions from their actions.
the people in our government dont follow the rules either. I have seen alot of people with signs like “tax the rich till their poor” and people upset because they have to pay school loans and feel the government should pay their way. Are the people wanting more socialism?
Perhaps you have an easy life so it is difficult for you to understand how many people are living hand to mouth or barely able to survive. As a NYC social worker, I meet many in need.
Some people work and can’t afford an apartment and have to live in shelters. Others work and can’t afford medical care. Others work and can’t afford to pay for education. The wealthy should be taxed 90 percent of their profits because even with that, they are still incredibly wealthy compared to the average person. Everyone is in need. If you are not and have no money issues and are happy with the way things are, then bless you – I am happy for you.