The Occupy movement as a whole

The global economic meltdown of 2008 was caused directly by risky business practices, fraud and malfeasance on the part of large banking concerns. So far, no one has even been investigated much less punished for their part in it. Everyone is suffering the consequences, except for those responsible.

The current economic situation is a man-made disaster. While unemployment numbers are at record highs, so are corporate profits.

Record corporate profits are used to buy politicians and lobbyists who change the laws to favor corporations who then profit even more in a cycle of corruption.

Corporate money has warped our political system. No matter where you are on the political spectrum, nobody thinks that lobbyists and $2500 a plate dinners should determine who gets heard.

“Corporate personhood” has become a way for the 1% to control us. We live in a plutocracy, not a democracy any more. We want our democracy back.

Our political system is so broken and corrupt that it no longer functions. That is why we have taken to the streets and are exercising civil disobedience in defense of our rights.

Why Atlanta?

Atlanta has the highest household inequality of any city over 100,000 in the United States. (Census Bureau)

Atlanta lost more jobs last year than any other metro area. ( US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Georgia’s unemployment rate has been higher than the national average for 49 consecutive months. It currently stands at 10.3% (Georgia Department of Labor)

These are national problems, but Georgia is harder hit than most. Everyone is suffering, but African Americans and Latinos are getting the brunt of it.

Why all the different causes and ideas? Why aren’t you focusing on one message or course of action?

Our diversity reflects the diversity of the people. We are the 99%.

The inability of our government to find solutions to the serious problems facing us has to do with inequality of power and the paralysis of our political system. This is the common thread that connects even seemingly opposing views.

Part of our point is that we are not being heard in the halls of power. We come to public places in order to speak our minds and be heard. The act of speaking and listening IS our message and action. Others will follow.

DON’T CRY. OCCUPY!

Go right ahead. They are there for people to use. If someone is confused about the rationale, or wants to connect these ideas to a particular issue they care about, I can help.