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We are the 99 percent

The 1% have Addresses. The 99% have Messages.

Posted 12 years ago on Oct. 25, 2011, 6:43 p.m. EST by OccupyWallSt

Occupy the Boardroom!

Life gets awfully lonely for those at the top. What can we do to let them know someone's thinking of them? Maybe they need some new friends! We've thought of two ways we can help them with that:

Option 1: Pen Pals

Make your voice heard by the Wall Street elites who wrecked the economy and made the rest of us pay. Click on someone below and tell them a story that you think they should listen to. Just got a college degree and nothing to show for it? Just got evicted while your banker gets bonuses? Share your special story with someone who ought to know.

Find a pen pal!

Option 2: Best Friends Forever

If you're feeling even more generous, why not reach out in a more creative way? Click on a banker below, then read the instructions and examples to get inspired. Maybe your banker needs some kind words, or maybe an intervention. Most importantly, use your imagination! The best, funniest, most revelatory interactions win prizes.If you're feeling even more generous, why not reach out in a more creative way? Click on a banker below, then read the instructions and examples to get inspired. Maybe your banker needs some kind words, or maybe an intervention. Most importantly, use your imagination! The best, funniest, most revelatory interactions win prizes.

Find a BFF!

340 Comments

340 Comments


Read the Rules
[-] 6 points by eidli (15) 12 years ago

Okay,

I'm getting really fed up with ows. It's 8 pm, no GA streaming (random videos on ny1, a very very chill chatting chick on ny2). Hello. I'm ready to go with 99delegation's move away from you guys if you don't think it's important to stream GAs and include all of us.

Instead, we get another rah rah action suggestion. Focus on the meat & potatoes. If you all don't care enough to livestream GA (on a tripod is fine), then really what is your whole thing about? I wonder if somewhat just having fun... (the woman with her "show" on NY2 certainly seems to be having fun..) bye--I'm off to www.the99delegation.forumotion.com where people who aren't in nyc can participate... (on a more serious level)

[-] 3 points by RabbleRouser (4) 12 years ago

Yes, it seems people may easily lose sight of whats at stake. How can we make our collective voice heard if we don't have a clear message even to inspire to join the cause against the opposition - the 1%! I agree with you eidli.

[-] 1 points by eidli (15) 12 years ago

okay, the brilliant other 99 channel 2 is streaming it on ustream.... but there are only about 23 watching it (I'm guessing no one knows as many people were clamoring to watch the ga on the chat screens beside the nyc 1 and nyc2 occupystreams... ) need to get the word out to people

[-] 0 points by agnosticnixie (17) from Laval, QC 12 years ago

The global revolution stream is part of another team.

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

While (or if) the GA is going on, don't forget to tape the part where it is discussed where the money is going, how it is being accounted for, etc.

[-] 0 points by nichole (525) 12 years ago

I'm thinking it's a consumer orgy ... nothing else.

[-] 6 points by mistere778 (7) 12 years ago

This comes across as silly and trite. What's next, toilet papering their houses? You won't win over the middle class with pranks and juvenile antics.

[-] 1 points by legalassistant (164) from New York, NY 12 years ago

On day 1 people said the exact same thing about camping in the parks.

[-] 1 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

I agree!

[-] 1 points by eleven (0) 12 years ago

Aw, come on! It's not like the middle class have 401k's tied to any of these companies! And if they do, so what? Their 401k's are down and now they're too depressed about it to care about what we do! And it's not like anyone in the middle class works for these clowns! And if they do, so what? We'll say we're just doing what those employees would do if they knew they could get away with it! Just because we're asshats in the name of the 99% doesn't mean we're hurting the 99%! Gosh!

[-] 4 points by bgermain (9) 12 years ago

Non-violent resistance and civil disobedience win respect and legitimacy. These suggestions here are not legitimate, and will make the movement lose the support of the people.

[-] 4 points by Flsupport (578) 12 years ago

Guys...I think I am not the only one that thinks this is lame. I am almost done....and I have marched......and contributed but you guys have lost your edge

[-] 4 points by occupyrise (10) 12 years ago

This is awful and I hate it. I thought Occupy Wall Street was a nonviolent movement? One of the core beliefs of nonviolence is not to humiliate but to win over: "Another thing that we had to get over was the fact that the nonviolent resister does not seek to humiliate or defeat the opponent but to win his friendship and understanding." -Martin Luther King, the Power of Non-Violence

some of these people youre invited the public to harass MIGHT not be our enemies. ALL of them will be our enemies if we start provoking them like this.

childish, immature, counterproductive, just awful.

i have supported Occupy Wall Street since DAY ONE with my presence, my time and my money. You will lose me (anda lot of others) if you dont retract this nonsense.

Rule of thumb: when there's a high road, take it.

http://teachingamericanhistory.org/library/index.asp?document=1131

[-] 2 points by Flsupport (578) 12 years ago

Me too. It is immature......I am trying to hang on but when there are people who are really being brutalized in Oakland, this begins to look like a bit of a joke in comparison.

[-] 2 points by Thisisthetime (200) from Kahlotus, WA 12 years ago

Yikes! Cool Down. OWS is still very young, and constantly changing. We need to be patient and have faith that we will move towards the good within us. Fair-ness.

[-] 1 points by eidos (285) 12 years ago

I am sympathetic to your point of view.

I also want to post this about a company that has, it maintains, accidentally done business with Syria:

Blue Coat Systems Inc. Equipment Helping Syria Crackdown on Democracy Movement

Big news this week about American company Blue Coat Systems Inc. According to media reports, activists discovered that Blue Coat Internet "filtering" equipment somehow got into Syrian hands and is being used to censor communications in Syria's democracy movement. Blue Coat revealed that they have no idea how 14 filtering devices they sent to their Dubai distributor in 2010 -- a distributor they refuse to name -- wound up, illegally, in Syrian hands.

But activists asserted that Blue Coat equipment dating as far back as year 2000 has been used by Syria to censor its people, according to some media reports.

It is illegal for American companies to trade with Syria. One of a few brakes our corporate friendly government places on commerce and yet it does not work.

An investigation is now ongoing, according to media reports, again, for something that apparently, according to some reports has been going on for over a decade, at least.

Blue Coat has experienced people at the helm, including professionals experienced in the Middle East. They aren't just out of the garage by any means. So, I want to congratulate Blue Coat, its Board of Directors, its CEO and senior officers and engineers for raking in profits on the backs of one of the most brutal crackdowns on democracy in the world today.

In the course of its crackdown, Syria has tortured and killed young teenagers, children basically. Kudos Blue Coat for exporting America's values to Syria.

It is appropriate that this news breaks around the 125th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty. Oh, what some of us have done with our liberty makes me hang my head in shame.

For several stories on the Blue Coat news, just go to Google News or other news search engine and search Blue Coat Systems. And be thankful you can do that search. Thanks to Blue Coat, in Syria, you can't.

[-] 1 points by CincyCitizen (4) 12 years ago

Its called accountability.It doesn't have to be harassment.Telling the people on Wall Street about the results of their actions is responsible and real especially if you can have been harmed by their actions.

[-] 1 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

I fail to see how this is a bad idea. Audacious, yes, but this wouldn't be much of a protest if it didn't have some degree of audacity behind it. Also, how is writing letters in anyway a promotion of violence? How is this in any fashion not adhering to a philosophy of nonviolence?? They're making a call to action to engage those financial officers who control much of the corporate sector in dialogue. For too long they've felt removed from the populous they've held such control over; I say this is a great way to try to dispel that anonymity they've felt! I truly don't understand the protests in this forum beyond perhaps their being funded self-defense and PR work on behalf of those who are being called out.

[-] 1 points by Dubby (146) 12 years ago

Encouraging people to do goofball stunts is not mature. It does not help people on the fence to take OWS seriously. It does not, as they say, "play well in middle america."

Encouraging a meaningful writing campaign is one thing. Encouraging outrageous stunts is not productive. It's not even dignified. I for one would like people to take this seriously.

[-] 1 points by CincyCitizen (4) 12 years ago

A little "gorilla theater" isn't a bad thing.It lightens things up.The "Occupiers" of Wall Street don't have to be cut from the same cloth. I have more problems with the police brutality happening in the streets that is being supported by Wall Street corporations and the New York Stock Exchange in the form of the Paid Detail Units that are attached to regular NYPD cops.Officer Anthony Belogna who pepper-sprayed the 4 women was a member of this group.They are paid to insight violence by the protesters. Accountability and exposure are the only tools we have.If you take those away what do you have?--an angry mob protesting about corruption with no direction or purpose.

[-] 2 points by rayl (1007) 12 years ago

why doesn't ows rent some cops too? what is all this money we hear about being used for?

[-] 2 points by Dubby (146) 12 years ago

Police brutality, while awful, brings sympathy, presuming those being brutalized are behaving in a civil and dignified manner at the time. The women who were pepper sprayed were, and it made a lot of people sit up and take notice. It could similarly be said about what happened on the Brooklyn Bridge.

Pulling these stunts does the opposite of that. It makes you look like a jackass and makes people who might otherwise sympathize not want to associate with you.

[-] 0 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

I agree, some guerrilla theater is just what we need at this point. While what we are protesting is of dire seriousness, that doesn't mean we can't have some levity about it.

[-] -1 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

Let's not kid ourselves. Both some cops and some protestors have crossed the lines. Either "side" can and no doubt will yielding instantaneous ridiculousness.

[-] 1 points by kazoo55 (195) from Rijs, FR 12 years ago

I agree. Thanks, good post.

[-] 0 points by Zeph (0) 12 years ago

I refer you to this statement of solidarity from Cairo.

"It is not our desire to participate in violence, but it is even less our desire to lose. If we do not resist, actively, when they come to take what we have won back, then we will surely lose. Do not confuse the tactics that we used when we shouted “peaceful” with fetishizing nonviolence; if the state had given up immediately we would have been overjoyed, but as they sought to abuse us, beat us, kill us, we knew that there was no other option than to fight back. Had we laid down and allowed ourselves to be arrested, tortured, and martyred to “make a point”, we would be no less bloodied, beaten and dead."

http://occupywallst.org/article/solidarity-statement-cairo/

When they come for us in our homes, those of us who fight back for the meager scraps that are still ours will be labeled "violent" by the same people who attack us with tear gas, flashbang grenades, clubs, pistols, and dogs. Pundits, lawmakers, currency traders, and all the other enemies of the common man will bleat about "nonviolence," when they will really mean "surrender."

When it comes to that point (and it will), whose side will you be on?

[-] 0 points by johnnymonicker (4) 12 years ago

If your Senator and Congressman refuse to heed your pleas because a handful of aristocrats have them in their pocket, write the handful of aristocrats who are holding your votes hostage. There is nothing childish nor violent about the above appeal. You have every right to assemble, to dissent and you certainly have every right to write a god-damned letter. Anyone who disagrees with that appeal is under the thumb of a media and political process that has been co-opted by a corrupt financial institution and should be ignored. The so-called "53%" do themselves more harm than good when they deter those who are protesting, who are in a position that the "53%" may be in if the established trend of inequality continues.

[-] 0 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

Has anyone here written their representatives?

Nah. You skipped that part of the process as best I can tell.

What are your plans? To shame Wall Street into doing what you want?

Please. When's the last time saying tsk tsk worked on anyone?

I have spent weeks advocating against the 53%.

Today. I stop. None of this is worthy of my defense.

You're both misguided. And neither side will accomplish anything at this rate.

[-] 1 points by jcruz4114 (5) from West Palm Beach, FL 12 years ago

I write my Representative regularly, but he never replies to my questions or comments! Instead, he waits for an issue to be brought out in the media, then he sends a "letter" to everyone in his district, telling them to vote for him b/c he has your best interest at heart! what a crock of BS! Democracy is broken! WE WANT OUR COUNTRY BACK!!!

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

That's why we need to approach them as a collective. Unified. Billions of voices ringing out as one. Then they cannot ignore us. It can work, I promise you. Don't lose hope.

[-] 1 points by johnnymonicker (4) 12 years ago

"And the banks - hard to believe in a time when we're facing a banking crisis that many of the banks created - are still the most powerful lobby on Capitol Hill. And they frankly own the place..." ~ Senator Dick Durbin, Illinois.

Those are the words of my representative.

[-] 1 points by peteg (10) from Cleveland, TN 12 years ago

The boardroom sure has. Many people do write their reps, but it doesn't work because the boardroom's bought them all off already.

See http://opensecrets.org and http://influenceexplorer.com for details... ...on any representatives you may be suggesting folks right to. That might help to explain some why I, if nobody else, don't bother writing to sleazebag politicians.

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

I get this mentality. I had this exact conversation with another protester last night. Writing Congress won't work by the tens or hundreds or even thousands.

It will work though, if it comes by the millions. And we're public about it.

This movement has being public down. Now just give us all something we can agree on.

I've been on this forum and many others. Right and Left will both agree to work together... if the message is shaped more clearly.

Attacking a blanketed 1% isn't working. I, personally, have no problem with Bill Gates, Steve Jobs (RIP), Mark Zuckerberg, etc. Who provided a product we wanted and let the market set the price. I'm not upset with that portion of the 1% at all.

Wall Street houses products we need... Insurance, banks, oil companies... and they adjust the profit margin any way they want to... but it's because the laws let them.

It's ok to get specific in this movement. And it's even more ok to formulate a plan to correct things.

The more issues you pick up under the Occupy umbrella, the more people you risk alienating.

I'm not interested in taking up environmental issues or healthcare reform with this movement. These are issues to be decided by our elected officials, once they truly represent us again, through the democratic process.

[-] 0 points by mimthefree (192) from Biggar, Scotland 12 years ago

lol, like we need banks or insurance.

i do fine without either.

[-] 0 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

The only way you will be able to continue to do "just fine" without those things is if you are a part of the 1%.

Private healthcare is very expensive. Unless you are uber rich, you will be bankrupt by any extended hospital stays.

Your argument is invalid. This country cannot operate without the banking and healthcare industries. Please refrain from unproductive comments on my threads.

[-] 1 points by mimthefree (192) from Biggar, Scotland 12 years ago
  1. i live in a country with free healthcare
  2. banks and insurance are unneccessary. what do banks and insurance companies provide that we actually need? nothing. they are barriers to freedom and should be done away with.
[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

Well, this country does not have free healthcare yet. And if you come here for any length of time, I strongly urge you invest in a policy. And on that note, no healthcare is "free". Youre paying one way or another.

I would like to see any small business owner start up without any bank assistance.

This country is a mess and perhaps yours has models of ways to do things better, I don't doubt that it might. But one step at a time here.

[-] 0 points by peteg (10) from Cleveland, TN 12 years ago

What is this supposed to mean, man? Do you really think that anyone is going to post a comment if they think it is unproductive? People either don't care what you tell them and are going to do it no matter what you say, or they think their comment is "productive," whatever that is supposed to mean, and will post it thinking that they are obeying your apparent order.

[-] 0 points by jart (1186) from New York, NY 12 years ago

As a movement, we've always strongly encouraged nonviolent direct action, but we also acknowledge the right of affinity groups acting in solidarity to pursue a diversity of tactics.

[-] 3 points by owstag (508) 12 years ago

"As a movement, we've always strongly encouraged nonviolent direct action, but we also acknowledge the right of affinity groups acting in solidarity to pursue a diversity of tactics."

What bullshit double-talk. What this effectively translates into once you strip away the pretentious pseudo-intellectual verbal diarrhea is "we've always strongly encouraged nonviolent direct action, but we also endorse violence."

You can be certain if and when any violence occurs, trustafarians like 'jart' will be far removed from it, probably discussing Marxist yoga techniques over lattes at Starbuks.

[-] 1 points by peteg (10) from Cleveland, TN 12 years ago

Dude, c'mon. You're making wild assumptions about people who I'm guessing you've most likely never even met. You have to work with what's actually there, what people are putting out, when you're on the internet.

(gender-neutral "dude")

[-] 3 points by Flsupport (578) 12 years ago

That doesnt mean you have to post them all

[-] 2 points by peteg (10) from Cleveland, TN 12 years ago

Not only that, but this is not even inherently violent! People can bombard these folks with love and empathy, with their real feelings and concerns! That has the potential to be very effective and powerful. Have you heard about nonviolent communication?

[-] 0 points by jart (1186) from New York, NY 12 years ago

So much love and affection the financial execs will hopefully choke.

[-] 1 points by peteg (10) from Cleveland, TN 12 years ago

:) :)

[-] 2 points by Dubby (146) 12 years ago

What a cop out. Pure double speak. What does OWS have a public relations department now churning out spin? The proposal is a bad idea and widely recognized as such. Those of us who do recognize this will speak out in unambiguous terms against it.

[-] 1 points by Ravila88x (14) 12 years ago

I agree, It is possible FOX News will take this as an act of war to get the National Guard called on us.

[-] 0 points by CincyCitizen (4) 12 years ago

Ask me if I care what Fox News thinks. Fear is a great manipulator.Its time for action.

[-] -1 points by justme11 (3) 12 years ago

as aaronparr pointed out to another poster on this page: you are either against the 1% or you are not.

I say the same to you: you are either against voilent action or you are not.

Which is it?

Just because a bunch of towns preface "Occupy" to their town name, does not solidarity make. A uniform message does.

[-] 2 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

Please don't mischaracterize my statements to imply that their is grounds to establish some rigid criteria to OWS. The central message does unify all the groups in that they share purpose the same outrage.

How individuals and disparate groups express their outrage, and attempt to achieve the purpose of upsetting the 1% hold on power is up to them.

There is no central command structure. It is spontaneous. If you want to influence it you need to get involved and persuade people. I am amazed at how much hostility I get every time I urge people to apply themselves to the problems they are kvetching about here.

It says to me that either 1 you are hostile to the movement and want it to fail. or 2 you are part of the movement, support it, but are dissatisfied about an aspect of it.

If it is the later, then figure out a better way to be persuasive. If you think you can forge a better movement DO IT. Now is the time. We can all benefit each other.

[-] -2 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

If that's true, then don't post articles like this on this website. It only serves to demonstrate that you actions and words conflict with each other and themselves.

[-] 0 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

no it doesn't describe any inherent conflict within the movement. state clearly how it does. you do this over and over again: assert these things over and over again about the movement as if any single description could describe what all of the occupations are, what all of OWS is through the entire world.

Its completely absurd. And I hope others are wise to this BS. This apparent attempt to sow discontent.

Thankfully you are only a grain of sand on the beach telling itself that it can hold back the rising tide.

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

I totally agree that OWS is not a single thing.

[-] -1 points by rufust (22) 12 years ago

Retract what nonsense??????What are you talking about???????? What "provoking" ????????? I think you're a mole and making this up. Why don't you provide some evidence or a link if you're not? Did you see what the Oakland Police did Tuesday morning???????? I think you're a phoney mole.

"Revolution is not a tea party" - Mao

[-] -3 points by demonspawn79 (186) 12 years ago

Was that quote taken before or after he had his head blown off? I imagine if MLK Jr. knew what would happen, he would have said "Fuck peaceful protest, kill them before they kill you."

[-] 3 points by BNB (89) 12 years ago

I disagree. Both MLK Jr. and M. K. Gandhi knew damned well where things were headed, and they believed until the end in non-violence.

[+] -4 points by goodoleUSA (-6) 12 years ago

I dont expect anything less than childish. These are petulant children, and yes some are 40 and over. Their wealth by world standards is vast and all a product of the US economy they hate. Not just in material but in educational opportunities and the wealth of FREEDOM. It is mindboggling that they could compare themseleves to Tahrir, people that have no freedom. These are kids crying that the have to drive the chevy because Daddy won't give them the mercedes.

[-] 1 points by CincyCitizen (4) 12 years ago

Calling this action childish is insulting and unimaginative. We are what we are. Not all of us have the same life experiences.I don't hate wealthy people even though I grew up working class. Some of the most generous people I have known are wealthy. America needs this revolution as badly as the oppressed people of Tahrir. We didn't know that until now.Things have been getting progressively worse over the last 30 years.The turning point has been reached and we can't stop progress.We can, however, use the wealth of resources we have to prevent the devastation ahead if things don't change.We won't get another chance.We will end up like Tahrir if we don't use this opportunity to turn the ship around before it hits the iceberg.

[-] 0 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

Well said!

[-] 0 points by Ravila88x (14) 12 years ago

I'm proud to be involved in OWS. It is the American thing to do. And I belive
the reference to Tahrir refers to the act of rebellion towards a Government that has not been on our side. That we are no longer the greatest Nation. We are Broke, unemployed, and no JOBS for us graduates and middle/poor class jobs. Jefferson saw this coming. “The end of democracy and the defeat of the American Revolution will occur when government falls into the hands of lending institutions and moneyed incorporations.” ― Thomas Jefferson He was one of our founding fathers. And foresaw this. I think OWS is that start. and this is what would she get! “A government afraid of its citizens is a Democracy. Citizens afraid of government is tyranny!” ― Thomas Jefferson

[-] -1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

You are typing words but nothing meaningful comes out.

If you have a problem with actions the movement has taken you need to join up and add your voice. These petulant and childish complaints are not doing you any good.

[-] 1 points by Dubby (146) 12 years ago

I see plenty of meaning in these words. The proposal is childish and wrong headed, and it is up to those in the community who realize this and have higher standards to speak up against such proposals. I would on the whole rather see such ideas raised and rejected, however, rather than cowering in meek thankfulness as goodOleUSA sees to propose ( be thankful for your freedom by not exercising it).

But goodOleUSA makes an important point which is true and we should never forget. On a global scale, the 99% of the USA is the 1% of the world (figuratively speaking). Every person here has more opportunity, more freedom, more rights than the vast majority of the human population. To claim these are meaningless words is wrong. They mean quite a lot.

[-] 0 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

@Dubby, What part of the phrasing regarding the original call to action post do you consider to be encouraging childishness? I'm obviously not reading it the same way you are. Calling for people to attempt "Creative" methods does not equate to calling on people to act the fool in my mind.

[-] 2 points by Dubby (146) 12 years ago

"prank calls," visiting wearing "ridiculous costumes," and pretty much the test of the bff list of suggestions are silly and not constructive.

Are you suggesting that making prank calls and the like is mature behavior?

[-] 1 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

Well, in addressing your prior mention of not wanting to give Fox News fodder to work with, the dilemma is groups like Fox already use these types of tactics themselves. Look at the ACORN scandal they flamed the fires of. Still, I'm not a fan of the "prank calls" or "ridiculous costumes" part either; that's pushing our luck. I'm hoping that other "creative" approaches will win out instead.

Thanks for the specific examples!

[-] 0 points by CincyCitizen (4) 12 years ago

We might have more opportunity and freedom than the vast majority right now but that may not be for much longer.Why let it continue to slip away when we can act now to change things.Even if we do act, it doesn't mean things are going to get better for a long time.The Republican Congress is determined to sink Obama's boat and they don't mind if a few million of us go down with the ship so they can get the power they crave.Wake up.

[-] 0 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

That all of the population of the USA is equivalent to the 1% hasn't been true for a very long time. I'm not convinced it ever was.

The vast number of people in the US have no say at all even at the ballot box with the direction this country is taking, AND the vast number of decisions coming out of the gov't continue to marginalize the majority in favor of the 1%.

[-] -1 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

Of course those words have meaning. And somebody with a problem with the actions of the movement of course does not need to join up.

[-] 0 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

The reason the words don't have meaning is that they say exactly what you say. "Someone with a problem with the actions of the movement of course does not need to join up"

That makes no sense. If you have a problem, fix the problem. The movement is not a top down thing, all voices are heard, and if you want to take on your own action you can do it.

No, this is just more FUD.

[-] -1 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

If they have no meaning, then don't post here, since that is your logic.

[-] 1 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

I understand people’s desire to naysay, but do those of you dissenting against this choice of action have any alternative ideas for direct actions you might contribute? We are all quite happy to hear suggestion as to how to more effectively communicate the public's opinion to those executive financial officers who are overseeing much of the corporate sector. As is, this method is the best one brought forward so far as to how to express the public’s voice to those people who have been wielding such disproportionate power over us. Again, if you have an alternative then please contribute. Otherwise, I’m starting to get the impression that we’ve stirred up enough of a hornet’s nest as to have unleashed some P.R. department interns onto our discussion boards.

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

When I don't like how I'm being treated by somebody sometimes one thing I do is to bring my "business" (or whatever it is that is the subject) elsewhere. That may or may not involve an explanation to them. Sometimes they get the message, sometimes they don't.

Also, sometimes "dissenting against the choice of action" does not have to yield "alternative ideas for direct actions" although I agree sometimes that is desirable.

[-] 1 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

I agree it is important to respectfully voice concerns about actions which are disagreed with, even if an alternative is not available. Still, my fear is that without some means for continuing our protest then attention to this cause will evaporate as the distracting drama with the Police resolves.

I also sincerely do feel the actions of the OccupyTheBoardRoom initiative will not be interpreted poorly however; not by a majority of our demographics at least. I've no doubt Fox News and the like will call it proof of the immaturity of this cause, yes, but that is inevitable. What I find more important is that we do not lose momentum and I believe this is a strong step in the right direction to help engage more individuals who have as of yet remained silent in publicly expressing their support. I know "guerrilla theater" isn't ideal, but until a viable alternative is brought forward, conducting no actions is just not an option.

So, that's my reason for believing this is an agreeable course of action. To those who disagree, and obviously you AnimalFarm in particular, would it be possible for you to provide some additional detail as to why you feel pursuing whimsical interactions with these individuals is inferior to pursuing little to no interactions? My apologies if you've already covered this in an earlier post.

Alternatively, if you feel non-whimsical and purely professional interactions are the correct course, I'd love to hear your thoughts as to how we might be able to still adequately bring broader social awareness to those interactions while still engaging the broader public's attention while utilizing such a drier tact.

[-] 1 points by Dubby (146) 12 years ago

I don't think the type of people whose support this movement needs are amenable to this type of behavior. Yes I think behaving like a responsible adult and not falling into the Fox News trap you mention (which is most certainly not "inevitable" ) is the way to go. All this stereotyping of the ows as lazy complaining pot smoking bongos playing kids is there, you can see it right on this board in fact. So going ahead and acting the part doesn't help. Showing the world they are wrong through respectable actions and taking the high road at every fork will gain peoples' respect and maintain ows's dignity. I'm so disappointed in this. Not at all what I stand for in terms of how to conduct oneself and makes me want to distance myself from ows.

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

You have to realize that in probably some of those email bombs being sent that some companies are probably going to filter them and the recipient many not even got to see it. Even if I'm wrong, and certainly in many cases the recipient will be getting to see some of them, think about it, how can an exec or board member take serious something that it being touted in whimsy and even a contest? And it's not just about drier tactics.

I'll say this too, if OWS were to cease to exist today, it has still made a statement. That said, often, almost always, coming up with good ideas is HARD. I certainly can't come up with many. But this is one one of those "I know a problem when I see one." Unfortunately though, sometimes, conducting no actions does indeed need to be an option.

As well, my experience is that groups need to sometimes acknowledge that their original premise has been accomplished and either change the premise or move on. I've been in too many things and witnesses too many things where the participates refused to acknowledge that metamorphosis. IOWs what was valid for OWS on Day 1 is not necessarily the same case any more just by virtue of it being X days later.

[-] 1 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

You make good points AnimalFarm. I suppose my own continuing dedication is in regards to that our original purpose has barely begun to be addressed however. I'm not ready to see this movement morphed in retrospect to have appeared to of been a fight against police brutality, as noble as that cause is. Corporate greed has yet to be hardly checked at all.

My own opinion is that this current tact is as much for the people sending the messages as it is for those receiving them. Giving us something to do while more substantial coordinated approaches are implemented is important. All the chatter in the world won't make a lick of difference to the Corporations save mildly clogging up their communications; it's their profits we have to impact if we want to see real change. Figuring out how to encourage a populous better informed about the businesses we buy from I believe is the ultimate solution. Till then, emboldening people to practice using their voice, even if it is for now futile, I'm still happy about for the meantime.

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

No, that is your logic. Mine is the opposite.

Mine is that if you don't like how things are going get involved.

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

This makes the false assumption that I haven't and also the false assumption that the only way to get involved is to "join up".

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

If you are involved why are you arguing NYC GA policy here? You can be more effective elsewhere if it is the specific actions you are concerned about.

If on the other hand you thought I was criticising the post rather than the comments to the post, I think it would be a good idea for both of us to take a step back and reappraise what has been said.

But I doubt that is the case, as each post of mine has been firmly pushing for involvement in the movement if you have criticisms of it. And criticising those that are just spreading FUD.

Why not express your own stand point more clearly then rather than just hiding behind these inarticulate outbursts?

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

OWS is by definition FUD and outbursts, so let's not go here. I think we can agree to disagree. You think involvement means X and assume everybody else [has to] agrees that it also means X. It doesn't. We are each as effective as we can be given our means and limitations.

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

BS. I never said anything of the kind, in fact "we are each as effective as can be" does not contradict anything I have said. So you are playing strawman and mischaracterizing my comments. Way to go. Are you trying to set a new record? It doesn't matter you aren't "winning" anything here.

Thanks for pointing yourself out as a source of misinformation and division.

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

Nope, no strawmen et al. Like I said, let's just agree to disagree. You original prescribed what seemed to have been a requirement that people "join up" under certain conditions. If that was intended to be as effective as we can be, then so be it, it just didn't seem so at the time. Let's also not forget that this medium is what it is.

[-] 4 points by Meesa (173) from New York, NY 12 years ago

WTF!!!!??! You have to be joking. Don't you even realize the executive assistant opens all of the mail? (Often email, as well.) So all you're accomplishing is hassling that assistant that's paid 450 x less than the CEO. Now you've demonstrated you have NO IDEA how the real world works.

[-] 1 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

Do you have an alternative idea for direct action? If you are aware of how the system does work and would like to make a suggestion as to how to more effectively communicate the public's opinion to those executive financial officers who are overseeing much of the corporate sector, then by all means please contribute those ideas.

[-] 2 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

EMAIL YOUR CONGRESSMAN.

Why is this so hard to understand by you people?

Washington gave them the legal right to be what they are. You want change, take it up with your representative. If we all scream at the same time, they have to hear us. It worked in NY with gay marriage.

Tried and true republicans stood up in front of the state and announced they changed their position because their constituents demanded it.

Good grief.

[-] 2 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

Very true independentmind! I've said it before and I'll say it again:

Occupy the Vote!!!

[-] 2 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

you don't even have to necessarily wait until election time.. start emailing today. If we all come up with a singular message such as "separate money and state"... we can inundate their mailboxes starting tomorrow morning.

but it takes the masses. everyone (or very nearly so)... and with all this wishy washy flim flam... that is the one thing this movement doesn't have at this moment.

but it's not too late to turn it around.

[-] 1 points by Frustrated39 (75) 12 years ago

YES! THANK YOU! Do you guys really think these CEOs and Board Members will do anything but laugh at this crap? They don't care if you are angry at them. They really, really don't. You know who does care? The people who want you to vote for them in a year. That is how you cause real, effective change - not silly hate mail.

[-] -2 points by eleven (0) 12 years ago

Oh yeah? Well, it serves her (and it is always a her) right for working for greedy capitalist scum pig dog vermin whitey!

[-] 2 points by lisaizonline (13) 12 years ago

racist. and sexist.

[-] 4 points by Dubby (146) 12 years ago

Prank calls and stuff? This is juvenile. Come on I'm really disappointed.

[-] 3 points by zahid (7) 12 years ago

This idea is not all that bad. The presentation was a little "cheeky" but look at the substance.Grass roots movement have been using mass mailing tactics for years. It's about communicating on the wavelength of a man behind a desk. It's one thing for him to read about something in the daily headlines but it's something entirely different for him to have a pile of letters on his desk. The message is about VOLUME. It's been effective in politics because those letters translate speak the politicians language, they all say voters. To a banker those letters translate into a mass financial intelligence, a market, these are all of the people you can no longer get rich from by ambiguous fine print and meaningless speculations. The message is fix your own broke method or for every letter you get you can count on having one less customer. You should note that the call was for real life stories done in innovative ways! GO FOR IT!

[-] 0 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

Agree.

We might as well write to those that bribe our representatives rather than just the representatives themselves.

[-] 1 points by Frustrated39 (75) 12 years ago

Are you counting on convincing businesses NOT to contribute anymore, through private shame? Do you think that is more effective than publicly protesting your representatives? Who cares more - the people who WANT your vote, or the ones you have absolutely zero control over?

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

did you not get the part about writing to both?

[-] 3 points by bgermain (9) 12 years ago

This is not a legitimate form of protest. I support the Occupy movement and I repudiate this proposal.

[-] 1 points by peteg (10) from Cleveland, TN 12 years ago

What do you mean by legitimate?

[-] 3 points by jajajajajajajaja (16) 12 years ago

This is just obnoxious. You know for sure all these people should be harassed? Not cool.

[-] 3 points by OccupyDC (153) 12 years ago

This is a horrible thing to do.

Who the hell thought this up?

This crap is going to backfire on you bad.

[-] 3 points by Banjarama (242) from Little Elm, TX 12 years ago

This is stupid!!!!!!!!!!!!! and pointless. Petition our leaders.

[-] 0 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

These are our defacto leaders. They buy the politicians and write there policy.

[-] 2 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

which is why we should focus on eliminating that from reality.

We as a country. I'm still not sure how I feel about this movement.

just saying.

[-] 2 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

You want the same thing this movement does, and you aren't sure how you feel about it?

I don't think you understand how this movement works. This isn't a centralized thing. Anyone with an idea can act on it in parallel. Anyone with an idea can bring it to a GA for coordinated action. It is your movement.

It makes no sense for someone to ambivalent about it. Either you want to threaten the 1%'s hold on power or you don't.

[-] 2 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

Some good points, yes. But I saw another link by the OWS people claiming our demands are "we are our demands"... which is profound and poetic... but not really all that informational, is it?

And there are times I think I want the same things this movement does, but then things like this post come up... and this does not represent me at all.

You have the idea that you can accomplish national change with many local, individualized protests... from what I gather. And to me, that doesn't seem practical. People around my town are gathering in smaller groups and talking about this movement less and less.

A clear message would do this movement some good. Something that really does unite all the people of this once great country. Mortgage relief doesn't do it. Loan forgiveness doesn't do it. Universal healthcare doesn't do it (and it's not the place to even start, way too radical a change, try preaching not-for-profit insurance companies, you'll get a better response).

Getting Wall Street's money out of Washington will.

For the people to have a voice loud enough to enact change, it must be one that's saying the same thing. Clearly and repeatedly.

[-] 2 points by justme11 (3) 12 years ago

Not to mention, the 1% get their hold on power directly from the government. OWS has threatened them, they know your there but aren't going to take you serious until you threaten to sever the ties between them and their paid for politicians.

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

FUD. OWS is in DC too. These BS comments are straight from the mouth of Cain.

Its oxymoronic that the words of Herman Cain would be taken seriously when they tell you not to listen to the likes of himself. He is after all running for president and looks just like the rest of the candidates - democrat or republican.

[-] 2 points by justme11 (3) 12 years ago

Straight out of the mouth of Cain?! Well I can assure that is the only thing we agree on then.

Your fragmentation will be your doom. It's tht simple.

I only came here to learn more and I am leaving confident by your posts that you do not represent me.

MY movement had real issues with real solutions in mind.

But you mock them.

sigh the disappointment. I feel a little like I did when Obama decided Immelt was his new BFF.

Wall Street is laughing at you. The government takes you as seriously as they do the Tea Baggers.

This is not my movement.

Maybe the next one...

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

FUD? No. Not even close.

Oxymoronic?

What is oxymoronic is claiming that you have a clear message being said in many different ways. Either the message is clear… or there are many. It can’t be both.

And there is nothing clear about one group wanting mortgage strikes. Another free higher education. Another Universal Healthcare. Another loan forgiveness. Another Fracking bans. Another Green Planet reform. Another….

Getting Wall Street's money out of Washington is not an oxymoron. It's a flippin' no-brainer.

Do you even understand how democracy works? I live in NY, where I sat up way too late to watch republican’s confess that they voted “yes” for gay marriage because their constituents demanded it.

Wall Street doesn’t give a flying leap about what you’re doing. You have NO power over them. Protest all year. The end result will be Wall Street: 1 / Protesters: 0.

Unless… we take all this energy and focus it, without yield, at our politicians. Our elected public representatives. Our civil servants.

gforz is on the same page I am. They are conservative. I am liberal. If you can't see how we're all on the same page with this one...

This movement is Occupy Wall Street. It is not Occupy DC, regardless of the fact that you have people there. Occupy WALL STREET has everyone’s attention.

And you’re blowing it.

[-] 0 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

It is FUD. The occupy movement is also in DC. Thats all that needs to be said on the matter.

And you are nothing but hostility and hot air. Unconvincing.

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

FUD: Fear, uncertainty, doubt. (because you use it so often incorrectly that I'm not sure you know what it really means)...

Where, at all do you find any of that in my posts. I am certain, beyond doubt that you will unite the country with the statement I suggest... and I have no fear in saying it over and over and over again. Or standing up for it, should it become the message you carry in this movement.

That is not all that needs to be said. This whole movement has, at this point, done nothing but start a conversation. Which is a start, don't get me wrong... but it's a long way away from affecting change.

Honestly, I want to see this succeed. But the message is unclear and befuddled. Simply "being there" is not enough. You have to know that.

I am all for ending Wall Street corruption.

110%.

I am not all for mortgage strikes. I am not about this movement taking up environmental issues. I am not about trying to change the health system with this. They confuse the purpose and spread the protesters too thin. The more "demands" you have (and deny it all you want, they are demands) the more room for opposition you create within your own group.

I, for one, will never... ever... agree to not pay my mortgage payment. You will loose my support entirely if that becomes the reality.

One message that all sides, both red, blue, purple, green... everyone can agree on is the only way to succeed.

Washington must cut the cord with Wall Street.

Then... and only then will you have a movement damned near 99% of this country is behind.

You and you're dismissals hurt your cause much more than they help it. All voices are heard, you say?

You certainly don't hear mine... or justme11... or gforz... or anyone else offering an alternative solution, do you?

[-] 0 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

I hear you. And I as I have said before, I support your will to take action. I appologize if I am coming on too strongly about the criticism about being in Washington, but you have to understand that the "go to DC" criticism (which is false becase there is an occupation there) is used by the john birchers of the 1% all the time to undermine OWS in the national media.

But I do not support your hostility to others to push the movement as they wish. yes I am very hostile to that. There is no harm in people trying everything and seeing what sticks. Thats how you begin to work to solve problems.

Anyone that is hostile to the methods taken by the movement misses the point that anyone can add their voice AND that all these voices together do make a difference. You don't need one demand, one issue.

Furthermore to cut the ties between washington and wall street is not just one issue. Everything that I have seen OWS in NYC go after has been one of the symptoms of the "cord" as you call it. Its a million strands between the two. You can't just cut one cord and call it a day.

This movement will not be successful if it simply attempts to go through established channels and get a few reforms to be passed. Corruption is too deep for that. This movement needs to grow over the bnext decade and transforms society as it figures out how to survive and flourish. You can onyl do this organically. If you try to get some top down message and get everyone in line... you put all your eggs in one basket. And you lose.

AND if you want to persuade me you need to stop with the BS. Don't put words in my mouth. Don't tell me what i do and don't accept. If you lack reading comprehension give it another try. But that tactic. To build a straw man to argue against rather than engage with what is actually being said, I have had enough of, and I will give to that more hostiity. It is very easy to see what is what. I have been down this road before.

I have never opposed your ideas. I have always encouraged you and the others who are all pushing the same go to DC schtick (while piling on the hostility to OWS by the way) to get engaged and trasform the movement. this BS about how I don't respect your ideas is clearly misplaced. Get a CLUE! You can't have it both ways. You can't criticize me for being accepting of many different tactics, while accusing me of being opposed to your ideas.

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

You dismissed my ideas by accusing them as no more than FUD. You accused this idea of being no more than Cain regurgitation. I started out presenting an idea and that was your reaction. I stated my concerns with the movement, as is, and you said the arguments were (and I quote) "BS comments".

Please, you will have to excuse me if my reading comprehension read hostility and close-mindedness into that.

The problem I have with OWS is there are too many messages. That is my main problem, as it is with most of the people I talk to.

By taking up so many issues at once, you alienate too many. By focusing in so many directions, you actually lose focus overall.

Eliminating Wall Street from the democratic process returns it to a true democratic process. We can then vote for untainted politicians who represent our desires in these other areas (healthcare, save the planet, wars... etc).

I agree this is going to be a long, involved process. But at this moment, there isn't even a starting point. The more issues you encompass under the Occupy name, the greater chance you take of turning off an entire group of people.

Good grief, look at all the people who turned their back on this movement simply because it assumed 99% of the population in it. That's all it took, a group of folks (with great intentions) standing outside Wall Street claiming to represent 99% of the country... and an entire counter-movement was born.

The more you special interests you pick up under the Occupy umbrella, the more people you will turn off. This has to start out as basic as it gets if it's to get anywhere.

Do you see what I'm saying?

[-] 1 points by gforz (-43) 12 years ago

I've been saying this repeatedly in other threads. Get the money out of Washington. Period. Then we can all go back to partisan bickering and voting, but the fix will not be in. It's precisely this type of stuff why moderate conservatives like myself do not endorse OWS entirely. Many fancy themselves little Che Guevaras and come up with crap like this (amongst other stuff). Too MUCH input in my opinion. The message is getting muddled into nothing. Focus is on tit-for-tat tactics, goading police, defying laws, making "viral" videos. Very little on the point of the protest.

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

It is saying the same thing clearly and repeatedly but in different ways. The interests of the 1% have marginalized the rest. Its very simple and profound and comes out in different ways and actions everywhere.

There's nothing else to say. Claims that the movement is dying down is the opposite of the truth. Things are picking up steam and it is recognized by those in power. We've been shot by rubber bullets and tear gas canisters during peaceful protest. Twice in the day. The second time was after the camp was dispersed. As soon as police violence was obvious ALL LIVE NEWS FEEDS went down. You can follow the twitter record.

No, this movement is the real deal. And the 1% recognize it. They fear that this can grow into another 1919 but not go away this time.

[-] -1 points by beaucphs (18) 12 years ago

Well said. Great idea to list names, imo.

[-] 3 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

Your time would be better spent writing to the people who gave them our money in the first place.

Wall Street greed and corruption sucks... but they didn't get that way without help.

[-] 3 points by jlivermore (8) 12 years ago

I am trying to do some networking in the industry. Thank you very much for this invaluable resource! Much better than linkedin.

[-] 3 points by wayneinok (6) 12 years ago

Really? This is what you're going with? Really?

[-] 3 points by mvjobless (370) 12 years ago

I think the people we should be writing to to demand changes are the stupid politicians in Washington who deregulated everything that created this financial crisis. Congress needs a good housecleaning and if we can hasten it with recalls, let's try it. They're doin it in Wisconsin, so why not nation wide?

[-] 1 points by litsquad (7) 12 years ago

No because Big corporation owns the Government. But you know this.

[-] 0 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

I'm with you, and I think another "more focused" group will lead this movement into a movement akin to what the Tea Party was able to accomplish.......the fear of re-election of their own. We should harness this power and meld the country wide protests and go mainstream (don't be afraid, we can do it) we just need to stick together and keep it peaceful. Strike when the iron is hot......

[-] 2 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

The Tea Party failed. All that populist anger put in even worse politicians than before.

Fool me once... but not twice.

[-] 0 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

I don't want to add Tea Party members to Congress, I want to get rid of everybody, Tea Party too! I'm suggesting we coalesce into a movement so the outcome will be to have the ability to help those who share the views of the 99% get elected to office. Don't forget, nine out of ten individuals in this country earn less than $60k/year. We need representation for those 90%.

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

Ofcourse. But the point is that you don't get that just by throwing people out of office.

I agree with the Tea Party's outrage a great deal. And wanted the movement to be successful. It hurt me to see them get co-opted so easily by the Koch brothers and the republican party. The Tea Party pushed forward in popularity with the call to "throw out the bums". What they got out of that however was even worse and more corrupt government.

We should have learned by now that political purges do not benefit the people. They only enable the elite to consolidate power as they exploit the vacuum. Stalin put forth violent political purges and look how that revolution went. No thank you.

We will be most successful by focusing on the money side of the corruption equation before going after the corrupt individuals in government.

If the pigs are over eating you stop filling the trough.

[-] 1 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

The Tea Party members of Congress ARE supported by the Tea Party members, they got just what they wanted, didn't they? I don't like the Tea Party member of Congress, but their constituency do! Am I missing something?

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

yes. the tea party movement did NOT get what they wanted, and the grass roots support of that movement has been completely supplanted by astroturf.

The Tea Party unfortunately died as a populist movement as is now just a brand for the John Bircher's to use on their politics in washington. I'd be surprised if there are any sane supporters of John Birch Society politics outside of the 1%.

[-] 1 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

I understand; that's what happens when the movement is co-opted by the "system", astroturf. I'm suggesting this movement evolve to the next level w/o the help of any "systems" or institutions. It can be done if thought through properly. Perhaps the general assemblies across the country could bound and unify around a couple of key issues. In RI, gasoline is over $3.60/gal., heating oil is not far off that mark and we are heading into winter. Where is the outrage? I think individuals of all stripes would rally against this issue. Or perhaps we should bite into something larger? Recent numbers came out showing the disparity between rich and poor is at an all time high!
Like it or not, the tea party movement shook Washington up. I think we can do better!

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

I'm sorry for confusing the issue. The main point I want to make is that you need to be careful of just throwing out the bums in congress, because what replaces them is often worse as was the case with the tea party movement.

Anyway, i don't see a need to unify behind one or two issues. but you clearly have some good ideas for issues to push in the north east. I say go for it.

[-] 2 points by wearethesystem (2) 12 years ago

the tone and concept of this whole occupy the boardroom measure is a failure. we would all do well to ignore it and focus back on changing ourselves in the respectful exchange with our fellow protesters and people. I don't consider you to be part of the occupy-movement and would demand you to stop abuse our movement and name.

This action is hateful and aggressive in character and voice. Occupy movement is about inclusion, if you haven't noticed, that is where our strength comes from. Look at the tone of discussion on this page, it is full of aggression and distrust. The way people here respond to criticism is feverish pushing out of words and own views to drown out concerns.

If you want to harass people and justify all means by the end there is the militant animal rights scene. There is nothing funny about this and your talk of being creative and inspired is a shallow pretense.

You are responsible for your actions and this "i just provide you with as much info on their physical location" and "if something happens to them that is not my fault" is about as gutless, honourless and irresponsible as it gets. Why don't you ask for violence straightaway and expose the nature of this whole enterprise for what it is?

Worst of all, in case you haven't noticed, by disregarding concerns and just pushing ahead you are splitting the people. I ask you to bring your skills into more creative activities and others to ignore this at best misguided endeavour. Don't cover me with words. I don't care to discuss in an atmosphere of incitement to hateful behaviour and exclusion.

[-] 2 points by subjugatednomore (3) 12 years ago

I've noticed an interesting thread here. The Occupiers being questioned for their use of "I-phones" and other devices. You use any weapon in battle. We need constant communication, as do the police, firefighters, reporters, etc. The people who would attack our individual methods, or attack us on an individual basis are still being manipulated by the outdated thinking that got us here in the first place. That, or they're the Bush or Cheney or Gingrich just looking to stir the pot here, in the forums. I beg of my fellow occupiers, do not waste your valuable time responding to their ridiculous gibberish. We are a movement, a group, a collective. We stand together, and must continue to do so. Do not allow yourself to become "individually" pissed. Patience has given the ruling elite much of the power it now enjoys. We must use their own weapon against them. Be patient. Be peaceful. Do not instigate violence. Trust me, it will go badly if you do. Be on the lookout for individuals at our gatherings who would try to instigate violence, and then disappear. They are infiltrators. The 1% will try to destroy us from within. It's worked over and over for them. Agreed, we do need A PRIORITIZED LIST OF GRIEVANCES. Just saying we're fed up with the 1% has accomplished its goal, they're listening, they're getting paranoid, we have their attention and their responding the only way you would expect, they're trickling down the message to the local level, and turning violent minded "individual" officers out to deal with us. We know 99% of the police officers support us. They've lost homes to the banks, they pay out the nose for health insurance, they're worried about keeping their jobs to have some small retirement. They're being intimidated by their superiors to tow the company line. The 1% WILL do whatever they have to, to protect the money they've stolen from us. When did it become legal for a bank to profit by charging 19% interest on a mortgage, with all the interest paid for the first 10 years, and no reduction in the principle balance? Was the over-site committee on vacation that week? If our government had given the homeowners the bank bailout money, and put a cap on absurdly ridiculous interest rates, the banks would have gotten their money the way they're supposed to, by monthly payments, instead of a big handout lump sum. And now their still expecting our monthly payments on top of it?! 35 years of work. I've given the 1% my retirement, the college money, and can barely afford "catastrophic" health care. Every last dime. Well guess what? I'm fed up. I want my damn dime back. We are fighting for our children's lives. What kind of future will they have? Where is a prioritized list of grievances?

Early on in this movement I saw some great ideas, Pharmaceutical companies running t.v. commercials?! This should not be legal. It's repulsive. Where does that kind of excess money come from? From the 99%, that's where. Untold hundreds of millions of dollars. We want our money back. Or at least have it go to finding a way to reduce health care costs, or providing help to those who need it the most.

We've removed church from state for a good reason. How about removing money from politics. Specifically, campaign contributions. Could someone explain to me why a person would spend millions of their own money to get elected to a position that pays $135,000 a year? What's up with that? Just bad decision making? I don't think so. How do you spell corruption?

The environment we're leaving behind. Are you kidding me? Every last person on Earth knows we've totally screwed the next generation. Today, 10/27/11, coal fired power plants will again spew millions of tons of carbon, mercury, lead, into the air we, and our planet, breath. Has anyone seen the homes the owners of these utility companies live in? Is all this some kind of sick joke? I'm not laughing, while I write the check for this months electric bill. HELLO.. Um, Uncle Sam/ Wall Street Are You Listening? Life Is Really Sucking Down Here At The Bottom Of The Food Chain. We want responsible/accountable political representation. We want it Now. We want our money back. We didn't get what we paid for.

This is just the tip of the buyers remorse ice-burg. Wall Street is the Titanic.

[-] 2 points by hadenough (3) 12 years ago

This does nothing to further the cause. If you want to have a positive impact, spend your efforts to educate the voting public, particularly shareholders. Keep in mind that all that executive compensation takes away from growing the business (new products and services) as well as diminishing shareholder return on investment.

You will accomplish more if you can wake up the voters and shareholders rather than creating vitriol against the executives. Executives don't set their compensation, Boards of Directors do.

Vitriol leaves a really bad taste and will turn off the people you claim to represent.

[-] 2 points by mrmoisha (3) from Burlington, NJ 12 years ago

I feel this would be the worst possible action at this point in time. Everything else you have done to this point has made my heart jump. You are on the right track.

[-] 2 points by Meesa (173) from New York, NY 12 years ago

Thank you to PandaMe73 for lucid commentary on this, which you can find here: http://thinkmore.posterous.com/please-dont-occupy-the-board-room

Included is this reminder of the harassment laws: Note that in New York State Section 240.26 Harassment in the second degree, considered to be a violation, requires only that when, with intent to harass, annoy or alarm another person:

  1. He or she follows a person in or about a public place or places; or
  2. He or she engages in a course of conduct or repeatedly commits acts which alarm or seriously annoy such other person and which serve no legitimate purpose.

and the the more serious charge, a class A misdemeanor, Section 240.30 Aggravated harassment in the second degree, requires only that when, with intent to harass, annoy, threaten or alarm another person, he or she:

  1. Either (a) communicates with a person, anonymously or otherwise by telephone, or by telegraph, mail or any other form of written communication, in a manner likely to cause annoyance or alarm; or (b) causes a communication to be initiated by mechanical or electronic means or otherwise, with a person, anonymously or otherwise, by telephone, or by telegraph, mail or any other form of written communication, in a manner likely to cause annoyance or alarm; or
  2. Makes a telephone call, whether or not a conversation ensues, with no purpose of legitimate communication;
[-] 2 points by legalassistant (164) from New York, NY 12 years ago

interesting how many users posting on this thread have little or no prior posts. And all of a sudden, up and downvoting galore.

[-] 2 points by mha (142) 12 years ago

you call this harassment? really? for years we are being spammed by thousands of corporations, and NOW that's called harassment?

we get beaten up for demonstrating, they receive emails because they defraud the whole world! is this what freedom and looks like? is this what justice looks like? don't write to the bankers, write to the politicians! THEY have failed us!!

[-] 1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

agreed. althoguh i don't see a difference in terms of "fault" between bankers and politicians.

[-] 2 points by EndTheFedNow (692) 12 years ago

Make your voice heard by the Wall Street elites who wrecked the economy and made the rest of us pay

You've lost the plot. Or, maybe never had it. While it is correct that the banksters are looting us, you COMPLETELY overlook that it is GOVERNMENT who makes the rules. Congress crafted the (very complex) laws that gave these bastards carte blanche (and it's much more than just repealing Glass-Steagall). Hundreds in congress should be in PRISON for what they've done and continue to do, along with the thieves they let in.

You want to fix what's wrong then you need to LEARN what it is.

[-] 1 points by Frustrated39 (75) 12 years ago

I have not witnessed any true sentiment on this website to actually address congressional leadership and their involvement in this at all. I really have no idea how protesting in front of Wall Street endlessly is going to achieve anything sustainable. As someone who is thousands of miles away from this NYC movement, I've watched for any true direction or message to arise from this other than basically wanting a CEO head on spike.

You don't actually think these guys care, do you? I mean, really? Why would they? You can yell all you want, but you aren't stopping Americans from buying their products. If you want to hurt a company, you hurt their balance sheet. You boycott their goods. You move your money from a bank to a credit union, etc.

But all I can gather is that the current protest feels that trying to shame them into doing something (that goal isn't clear either - do you want them to start writing checks on the street? Hire more people? Become non-profits and start a new society where everyone is paid in marshmallows?) is going to bring about real change.

They completely downplay the role of the government, and that is the avenue towards real change. Camping out in a park isn't bothering them one little bit.

Yes, this movement may have a protest in D.C. - but until THAT protest become the main point of focus, you'll never win over the rest of the 99%. Sorry, you just won't.

[-] 1 points by EndTheFedNow (692) 12 years ago

Exactly correct. The problem is government. Corporations are always going to do whatever they can get away with. It was government who created the framework for corporate socialism. Congress privatized our money supply with the creation of the Fed. They had no constitutional authority to give away the people's money like that. It was congress who looted the American people to bailout banks and buy their toxic "assets" (i.e., bad gambling debts). It's congress who subsidizes big ag, big pharma, big oil, etc. It was the administration who allowed BP police powers when they polluted the Gulf of Mexico. Corporations will take whatever corrupt politicians are willing to give. It's the corrupt bastards in government who are willing to take bribes to enrich themselves. All of the corporate in the world wouldn't mean a damn thing if politicians couldn't be bought. The role of government is to protect the rights of the people. They not only have not done that, they have conspired against us. They have violated their oaths and they need to be in prison.

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

Agreed. With both of you. I'm not sure this movement really wants resolution, to be honest. I'm starting to think there is a hidden agenda. It's the only thing that makes sense as the 99ers I talked to dismiss this "take it to Washington" theory entirely.

[-] 2 points by Idaltu (662) 12 years ago

It is direct action.... it will certainly bring more attention to the cause. People march down a street beating drums....that is no more a sophisticated action than flooding the Banksters with email (no the person it is meant for will not read it...that is not the point!). Also it takes advantage of using the net which in a way is the poor man's Madison Ave...ad campaign...GO FOR IT!

[-] 2 points by Amanita76 (88) from New Haven, CT 12 years ago

Less complaining, anger, and resources need be directed to people(the 1%) who wont change anything for us. More action need be directed toward the people who are really in charge. Lets show OUR government what it means to be a direct democracy.

Divided and they will conquer...unite and we will conquer.

[-] 2 points by gawdoftruth (3698) from Santa Barbara, CA 12 years ago

awesome, beyond words awesome. please come post this in the wiki

http://occupythiswiki.org/wiki/Corporate_Oligarchy_1%25

[-] 2 points by natu (3) 12 years ago

Brilliant! Good call.

[-] 2 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

I think you are acting foolish and feeding into the hands of those trying to label this movement as a foley. I agree with a poster who stated the low level worker will bear the brunt of this nonsensical escapade. Why aren't we uniting our focus on one or two issues and sending hundreds of thousands of letters to the respective Congressperson(s). Gasoline of over $3.65/gal.; heating oil is around $3.40/gal, just in time for a cold winter. What are "we" doing? Sending BFF requests to CEO's of Goldman Sachs? People are struggling to survive, while people in Washington, our elected officials are arguing over further cutting taxes for the wealthiest 1%! What is #ows about again? GO MAINSTREAM, JUST GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER FIRST!

[-] 2 points by eidos (285) 12 years ago

Here is a link to BBC News interview where a trader goes gonzo, gets very candid:

talks about eurozone market crash.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aC19fEqR5bA

[-] 2 points by RedPanther (11) 12 years ago

Bad move guys

[-] 2 points by lifesprizes (298) 12 years ago

This is simply genius. Whoever is putting this together is a total genius. Nothing breeds fairness faster than visibility.

[-] 2 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

I think it's time to turn our discontent where it belongs: Washington, DC. Nine out of ten individuals in this country earn less than $60k/yr (Dept. of Labor 2009). Understand, this means a room with 1000 people in it, 900 of those earn less than $60k. In our Congress of 535 members, not one is from the 90% crowd, not one! This is a travesty....talk about taxation w/o representation! Let's coalesce the OWS movements across our country; unite, demand our politicians work for us. If not.......take names and ready a primary opponent. The Tea Party did it why can't we?

[-] 2 points by ShowRealHist (60) 12 years ago

Here's one serious item, offered as a candidate for inclusion. Roaring truth: Condemn venal journalism for severely fooling the people http://occupywallst.org/forum/condemn-venal-journalism-for-severely-fooling-the-/

[-] 1 points by StevieO (2) 12 years ago

Everyone in this movement should show as much integrity, civility, and persistence. We should a legal high road, process and seek understanding, wisdom and exchange of ideas and solutions. Let us be creative and most importantly seek, non violent procedures to lead, educate, and inform the most people we can. This movement has no room for any hint of violence. StevieO

[-] 1 points by thetruthaboutitall (1) 12 years ago

Let's refine the slogan just a little to suggest a powerful innuendo: YOU MAY THINK YOU'RE THE ONE BUT WE ARE THE 99

[-] 1 points by Yezdyar (2) from Fresno, CA 12 years ago

One small step.....Bank of America has backed out of the proposed $5 Debit Card fee...the Occupy Wall Street movement IS making a real life impact...Time to write a good slogan to thank BofA and call for more serious reforms?

[-] 1 points by TeaPartyPat (5) 12 years ago

BTW, you are all part of the 1% of the worlds top income earners so, maybe you should occupy yourselves.

[-] 1 points by TeaPartyPat (5) 12 years ago

I personally know several people on this list who are great people with wonderful families and the idea that you want to damage their lives and their livelihoods in the name of your extremely misguided campaign against the private markets is incomprehensible and a symptom of your sick thought processes. You are not Americans by any stretch of the imagination, you are invaders and traitors.

[-] 1 points by TeaPartyPat (5) 12 years ago

I personally know several people on this list who are great people with wonderful families and the idea that you want to damage their lives and their livelihoods in the name of your extremely misguided campaign against the private markets is incomprehensible and a symptom of your sick thought processes. You are not Americans by any stretch of the imagination, you are invaders and traitors.

[-] 1 points by SandorE (12) 12 years ago

Time to Occupy the BOE Board of $Election and the CPD (Commission on Presidentail Debate - they are private and $ecret) BOE FL 7, 32 BROADWAY NEW YORK, NY 10004-1662

[-] 1 points by eidos (285) 12 years ago

Here's one to add to the list:

Activists have discovered that Blue Coat Systems Inc. Internet "filtering" devices are being used by the Syrian government to shut down the democratic freedom movement in Syria.

Congratulate Blue Coat Systems for contributing to a brutal crackdown in that country that has seen young teenagers tortured to death!

[-] 1 points by DickCheney (1) 12 years ago

I am the 1 %. Come on my property and I will shoot you!

[-] 1 points by ungr8ful (70) from Benicia, CA 12 years ago

Ok so if the next time the new iPhone comes out and there are not thousands of college kids lined up to buy them, then maybe ill start worrying about the economy. GO HOME....... go occupy your families lives.

[-] 1 points by ungr8ful (70) from Benicia, CA 12 years ago

Ok so if the next time the new iPhone comes out and there are not thousands of college kids lined up to buy them, then maybe ill start worrying about the economy. GO HOME....... go occupy your families lives.

[-] 1 points by Ronnyjoejimbob (6) from Merritt, BC 12 years ago

I think it is only a matter of time before they bring out the tanks.

[-] 1 points by Ronnyjoejimbob (6) from Merritt, BC 12 years ago

I think it is only a matter of time before they bring out the tanks.

[-] 1 points by jrdintrnj (1) 12 years ago

In 2006 I lost my job due to being diagnosed w/leukemia. I went over $50,000 in debt to keep my home. When I tried to refinance I discovered my home was over $175,000 underwater. In addition, my monthly payment jumped from $3,000 to over $45000. I contacted Chase mtg, filled out all the forms, and wasted my time. I asked for help since our income dropped from over $175,000 to $70,000. You know how much help I got from your bank? NONE, NOTHING, in fact the reps seemed to take joy in telling me they could not help me. Now, after the PEOPLE of America BAILED out you and your colleagues in the banking industry, you have no economic patriotism. You all have fallen to the fatted golden calf. Freed will get you money now but I'm sure you will pay very soon for you greed.

You and all of the banks need to be broken up into banks run by caring concerned citizens, not money grubbing, greedy bastards that you all are today!

[-] 1 points by klsmith (8) 12 years ago

Sooooo. How is the re-distribution of wealth thing supposed to work. Increase their taxes or just take their money?

[-] 1 points by klsmith (8) 12 years ago

Sooooo. How is the re-distribution of wealth thing supposed to work. Increase their taxes or just take their money?

[-] 1 points by ProtestingOCCUPY (4) 12 years ago

This is your attempt to infiltrate the United States of America by Socialists who support the current presidency of Barack Obama and the seizure of power he wishes to attain in this country. I work - I'm neither wealthy nor poor, but I am grateful for the opportunities I have because of the free market system I live in. If you want to do something constructive with your time and bodies, and be fed & housed, then tell your Socialist president to reinstate the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration of the 1930's. Do something positive instead of tearing this country down. Protest your government - they have the power to make change. Or at least that was the claim during the last Presidential election campaign.

[-] 1 points by ProtestingOCCUPY (4) 12 years ago

This is your attempt to infiltrate the United States of America by Socialists who support the current presidency of Barack Obama and the seizure of power he wishes to attain in this country. I work - I'm neither wealthy nor poor, but I am grateful for the opportunities I have because of the free market system I live in. If you want to do something constructive with your time and bodies, and be fed & housed, then tell your Socialist president to reinstate the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration of the 1930's. Do something positive instead of tearing this country down. Protest your government - they have the power to make change. Or at least that was the claim during the last Presidential election campaign.

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

Omg. You need to stop. There are socialist undertones to this movement, for sure. I kinda think this while thing is a preamble to their attempt to smash capitalism completely. But Obama, while admittedly not a saint, is certainly not the demon you claim. With you on protesting the government tho.

[Removed]

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

Voting for president has become about choosing the lesser of two evils. I am confident I made the right choice last election. Beyond doubt.

You got a better one for this one?

Oh. And those of us who pay attention do not credit Obama with pulling out of Iraq. We credit him with not breaking the contract to do so that his predecessor signed.

[-] 1 points by mriona5 (1) 12 years ago

I have read the short description above, read the comments and than clicked on the blue hyperlinks above. I am really failing to see how any of the suggestions for be-frending are violent? Am I missing something?

[-] 1 points by PeaceOnEarth (3) 12 years ago

This is pretty funny :)

[-] 1 points by toothdoctor (2) from Miami, FL 12 years ago

I have read the first 20 or so posts. Everyone is looking for direction of the movement. It is simple and obvious where all the real problems come from. Our elected officials are servants of the 1%. If that fact remains, nothing will ever happen. So, what is the answer. Organize and get normal people in office that are servants of the people, the 99%. 99 to 1 we should win.

Anyway, here are a few of my own ideas why this is not a fantasy. It will work if we the people come together.

Most people would think we will just be betrayed again. They would be right if we don't plan for it. Here is a plan to deal with the influence of the 1%.

  1. Once our selected representatives are in office, what if they turn their back on us like every other politician. I suggest a system be in place to deal with this.

One possible system is as follows:

First, they sign a contract with us to agree to represent the concensus of our opinion.

Second, we set up a website to do two thing. Educate us on the issue which is being considered. Even test us on our understanding of the issue so that we qualify to vote on the issue. Then the website tracks each persons vote and totals them up. Now if 80% of us agree how an issue should be decided and our representatives do not do it. They violate our contract and resign from office as agreed to before we elected them.

What i am saying is that there is a solution. We are not without hope here. This movement is in it's infancy. It must have one purpose.

TO BE REPRESENTED

After we are represented we can deal with all the issues that concern us. Until we have elected officials that represent us, expecting positive change on issues is nieve. Also, dealing with issues before we are represented will end the movement. Disagreement on issues will separate us into different factions. We can all agree that we need to be represented. We can all agree on the majority rules. So wait on the issues and get represented.

I would love to vote for people that would represent us. I think 99% of us would. I don't want the following question in my mind the next time that I vote:

Which pandering liar will betray us this time?

I would like thank everyone for your time and effort.

[-] 1 points by jcruz4114 (5) from West Palm Beach, FL 12 years ago

I couldn't agree more with toothdoctor! it is in it's infancy and with technology at our disposal now, unlike when the framers set up the constitution, we now have ways to ensure that our voices are heard and count! No longer do we have to rely on PAC's to do our bidding (as the 1% relies on PAC's and lobbyists to do theirs).

[-] 1 points by Bravesocks (6) 12 years ago

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=188373237844547

Some people just cant stand and watch it any more....

[-] 1 points by Socrates469bc (608) from New York, NY 12 years ago

We're poor because we're spending money bailing out the rest of the world's banks, after they gouged us and foreclosed our homes.

eg. From bloomberg.com:

Federal Reserve data showing UBS AG and Barclays Plc ranked among the top users of $3.3 trillion from emergency programs is stoking debate on whether U.S. regulators bear responsibility for aiding other nations’ banks.

UBS was the biggest borrower under the Commercial Paper Funding Facility, with $74.5 billion overall, more than twice as much as Citigroup Inc., the top U.S. bank recipient, according to the data released yesterday. London-based Barclays Plc took the biggest single amount under another program that made overnight loans, when it got $47.9 billion on Sept. 18, 2008.

[-] 1 points by Socrates469bc (608) from New York, NY 12 years ago

From bloomberg.com: FOREIGN BANKS RECEIVE THE MOST FED AID,

97-Year Secret

Overseas banks accounted for about 70 percent of discount window loans when borrowing reached its peak of $113.7 billion in October 2008, according to the Fed’s data.

The discount window, established in 1914, is known as the lender of last resort.

By law, most U.S. branches of foreign banks have access to the discount window, said David Skidmore, a spokesman for the American central bank. “They are important providers of credit to U.S. businesses and households, and discount window lending during the financial crisis helped support their continued lending in the United States,” he said.

The Fed has kept discount window borrowers secret for 97 years. Last week’s disclosures were court-mandated after legal victories by Bloomberg LP, the parent of Bloomberg News, and News Corp.’s Fox News Network LLC.

Depfa Bank Plc, a German-owned bank based in Dublin, was another insurer of municipal bonds in the U.S. Depfa’s discount window borrowing peaked at $28.5 billion in November 2008.

[-] 1 points by Socrates469bc (608) from New York, NY 12 years ago

You're targeting an incomplete list,

Here's a better list (from reuters.com)

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”), as conservator for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac files suits against the following lead defendants, in alphabetical order:

  1. Ally Financial Inc. f/k/a GMAC, LLC

  2. Bank of America Corporation

  3. Barclays Bank PLC

  4. Citigroup, Inc.

  5. Countrywide Financial Corporation

  6. Credit Suisse Holdings (USA), Inc.

  7. Deutsche Bank AG

  8. First Horizon National Corporation

  9. General Electric Company

  10. Goldman Sachs & Co.

  11. HSBC North America Holdings, Inc.

  12. JPMorgan Chase & Co.

  13. Merrill Lynch & Co. / First Franklin Financial Corp.

  14. Morgan Stanley

  15. Nomura Holding America Inc.

  16. The Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

  17. Société Générale

[-] 1 points by Vincenzo (47) 12 years ago

Childish. Really bad idea.

[-] 1 points by knowledgeispower (11) 12 years ago

This isn't right. Personally attacking individual members of a group for the groups wrong doing is not right. You should be ashamed if you send something hateful to one of those executives.

[-] 1 points by HL123 (28) 12 years ago

It's kind of stupid to harass ceo's... They only lobby because it's legal and they work in the interest of business. All ceo's do this in America. You must call and pressure the senators, representatives that can change these laws. You must create a coherent message for Occupy Wall Street and the media in America.. that this is the most important demand and unite all factions of protesters to change these laws. Playing pranks is for children. It does not change anything.

[-] 1 points by bmluca01 (1) 12 years ago

Occupy... is the last-resort action of some people who have the time and energy to make a concentrated statement: the young and unemployed. To have organized something making national and local headlines, I am sure their energy and presence won't go unaccounted-for, even if their physical presence is litigated out of sight.

They're younger, more stubborn and are able to spend their unemployed time educating themselves on exactly how to move margins. I'm convinced and I hope when they're inevitably forced underground that they never concede but pop up in jobs where they have leverage, ears and ends to undermine the entire system they're protesting. I knew I couldn't be the only one.

You won't be ready and I can't wait.

-A Silent Silent Corporate Ally

[-] 1 points by crass (1) 12 years ago

I'm emailing them telling them not to listen to you lazy dweebs. lol

[-] 1 points by PandaMe73 (303) from Oakland, CA 12 years ago

I wrote a post explaining why this is unwise by playing into the hands of the spin machine trying to stop us but mainly because you guys seem to be forgetting how easy it is to level harassment charges... the second option is call for anyone to attempt personal contact, who hears the call and what they do is totally unmediated and out of your hands then, but the consequences will be tied back to and fall directly on the shoulders of OWS. Only for my final reason do I mention it's not very nice. Everybody seems focused on their anger at bankers and seem to be forgetting what even one out of our hands incident could do to taint the entirety of the movement. It's bullheaded and stupid.... my whole argument and a link to new york harassment law here.

http://thinkmore.posterous.com/please-dont-occupy-the-board-room

[-] 1 points by mikev (2) 12 years ago

Why don't any of you apply for a job instead of flaming a bank executive? I know for a fact many of the firms you're railing against are hiring. Maybe you should take a fucking shower and head to a job interview you fucking whiny cowards.

[-] 1 points by mikev (2) 12 years ago

Why don't any of you apply for a job instead of flaming a bank executive? I know for a fact many of the firms you're railing against are hiring. Maybe you should take a fucking shower and head to a job interview you fucking whiny cowards.

[-] 1 points by IHaveAJob (6) 12 years ago

Aw, just when I thought you Occu-Perverts couldn't go any lower.....you GO LOWER LOL!

Good job, freaks!

[-] 1 points by desolationpress (11) 12 years ago

Hmm ... Silly and counterproductive? Like, oh, say, attempting to levitate the Pentagon? All political action has an element of public theater, and this example is no different. As the Yippies established, there is room for humor and over-the-top gestures in this process. Learn from the past, and use it for our future.

[-] 1 points by ithink (761) from York, PA 12 years ago

Apparently, Humor is not a resource. Therefore it will not be permitted in the new Resource Based Economy.

[-] 1 points by dls101 (27) 12 years ago

yes, I do think this is a waste of time. Stop it! With our brothers and sisters being brutalized in Oakland CA mobilize to support them. Keep your eyes on the prize!

[-] 1 points by AreWeStillInOz (8) 12 years ago

Kill the Jews. Burn and plunder the rich!!!!

[-] 1 points by bee (1) 12 years ago

Winning, Bullying, and Provoking is not the high road. We can win with solidarity, communication, education, stamina, and democratic actions. Are we sure the individuals calling for these childish actions of harrassing people aren't working to defeat us?

[-] 1 points by 99percentmusing (2) 12 years ago

I don't think that was brought up at GA. I think we have a solidarity conflict in media. Anon outed two at Occupy Boston last night who were working in finance.

[-] 1 points by 99percentmusing (2) 12 years ago

I don't think that was brought up at GA. I think we have a solidarity conflict in media. Anon outed two at Occupy Boston last night who were working in finance.

[-] 1 points by europen (5) 12 years ago

send more messages to Europe, our media diminishes the importance of your

[-] 1 points by europen (5) 12 years ago

send more messages to Europe, our media diminishes the importance of your

[-] 1 points by GREGLOUG (1) 12 years ago

Really, really bad idea. You get their attention by picketing outside their business with rationale and verifiable demands. For example:

1) Banks get a bailout by the U.S. taxpayer

2) U.S. taxpayers who lost their jobs because of the banks induced financial crisis see their credit ratings harmed because of it

3) Banks say these now unemployed U.S. taxpayers are more risky because they are unemployed and less able to pay their bills on time

4) Banks make these very same unemployed taxpayers, that bailed them out of their financial misjudgements, now pay them EVEN MORE MONEY in higher interest because they are unemployed because of the banks financial crisis.

Connect the dots on why you are pissed and who is the blame, and occupy the sidewalk outside those businesses and then be taken seriously. You need a spokesperson at each picket so the media can get a synopsis of the grievance. Make a case for what needs changing. And don't wear SILLY COSTUMES!

[-] 1 points by riconi (3) 12 years ago

to the critics: somebody can kindly explain to me why is it all right to denounce goldman sucks' crimes -for example- and wrong to denounce the actual people who are taking those same decisions at goldman sucks?

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

because goldman sachs only did what our elected officials made possible.

do you blame the child for bad behavior or the parent?

[-] 1 points by riconi (3) 12 years ago

I did not get a chance to elect my mother.

[-] 1 points by angelofmercy (225) 12 years ago

Wait a min. here. I thought there was no place for hate at OWS

http://occupywallst.org/article/ows-snapshot/

But yet you want people in the movement to share their story with bankers and you don't think that no one is going to be hateful , or something even worse at all in any of the message they send? You people are freaking nuts.

[-] 1 points by Speratus (1) 12 years ago

I was very active in protests during the Vietnam war era. What you are wanting to do with this tactic is not the way to success. Everyone involved with banks and corporations are not the enemy. Providing a wholesale list of corporate executives to be harassed is rude and cruel. I see nothing wrong with contacting those who were (and/or are)decision makers on specific activities that lead to the current crises in the USA. Many of us in this modern world live in a state of bad faith; no matter what we do may have negative consequences. You don’t know what a corporate executive was faced with in deciding to do her/his job and care for their family. Some of the very executives you might contact on this list may have been thinking of responsibly changing their behavior or job and joining efforts to positively change the status quo. It is oppressive to harass someone. You cannot fight oppression with oppression. Peaceful persuasion and argument are more solid foundations on which to build a new world.

[-] 1 points by peacefulgranny (2) from Grass Valley, CA 12 years ago

1 Pen Pal idea maybe. However I don't think the ceo's will actually read them. Their secretary might, and they might get so overwhelmed by emails they will just automaticaly hit the 'delete' & 'spam' buttons.

2 idea BFF forever is immature & juvenile and will I think end up in the trash by an overwhelmed secretary/assistant.

I think promoting strongly to everyone, their family & BFF's to withdraw our assets from the big banks to CU's/Local Banks is the best Idea I can come up with. I'm in the process of helping my 89 year old mom do that! Also shopping locally, boycotting any products koch bros make, ge products, etc will have a greater impact on their assets than anything. Stop buying made in China! A few years ago, I started buying misc. stuff at thrift stores. This has saved me a lot of $$, promoted recyceling and now I can afford the higher local prices on organic food & clothing. I also talk to stores about selling made in USA products, when they come around asking if I'm finding everything, I ask them to stock such & such I need - made in USA stating I will not purchase the similar thing if it's made in China.

[-] 1 points by rufust (22) 12 years ago

The Oakland Police are the bastards that caused the manifestation of Oakland's Black Panthers for self - protection in the 60's. Now, they want to take on the entire population. They are the emergence of our new corporate cops - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hG8-3N8LW4

[-] 1 points by CincyCitizen (4) 12 years ago

This is a good discussion to be having.Those who are looking for ways to avoid respsonsibility for their actions (like Wall Street firms that acted like predators instead of legitimate businesses) are going to cry "fowl". It will make some of them sweat.It should.Their actions should be questioned.

A researcher was doing a study on the actions of Wall St. traders.They got a measurable "high" from high risks trades that raised the level of their testosterone.It led them to make even riskier trades.This guy worked on Wall St.He understood it well. Our financial futures are being determined by guys high on testosterone.If that doesn't motivate you to act , then nothing will.

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

But...

What they did wasn't illegal.

Who's fault is that?

[-] 1 points by rufust (22) 12 years ago

The 99% have messages? No the 1% have messages here. You delete the 99% because you're ONE OF THEM!

[-] 1 points by marcodif (1) 12 years ago

Please stop the bickering here. The problem lies in a small percenteage of people at the top of the food chain that control, and take advantage of, the average american worker. The financial industry is the cause of the housing meltdown, and the resulting downfall of the country's economy. I am now unemployed since 2/2011, have only been able to get 1 job interview, and am in a house that is worth 50% of what I paid for it in 2005, and continuing to drop. I called my credit card companies and mortgage lenders to get some temporary relief, but I get zero help. I am being charged as high at 17% interest from credit card companies who also own my mortgage. I have exhausted all my savings, all my retirement money, and now dipping into my chiildren's education CD to stay afloat by paying, on time, all my creditors who wont offer any help. The entire financial system is flawed, from the Fed, to housing "managers", to credit cards. It's all designed to allow the rich to become richer. The american dream is just that, a dream. You want a true nonviolent movement, one that will get the message out loud and clear? Try "actions speak louder than words". Get enough Americans to skip one month of paying on their mortgages, credit cards, and loans. That would get the 1% shaking in their boots. United we stand, divided we fall. Let's gets this country to what it once was, where it's truly a government by the people, and FOR the people. What we have now sickens me.

[-] 1 points by independentmind (227) 12 years ago

this is the worst idea ever. and the reason I came here to begin with.

I thought I knew what this was about... until I heard the mortgage strike nonsense.

Being as irresponsible as they are is not the answer. and it makes anyone not willing to do that (me) want to denounce the entire movement.

Pay your bills, for crying out loud.

You want change? Get the attention of the people who write policy.

It is your only hope.

[-] 1 points by texan1 (4) 12 years ago

Something else you need to see.....www.thebigturds.com....read the blog

[-] 1 points by stratoliner (11) from Santa Fe, NM 12 years ago

I think these forums/comments are great! Instead of the mentally bankrupt going off and actually shooting banksters, they get to vent and talk about creating more of their own reality by not recognizing the many, many relaities there are and whining about the necessary evolution of OWS and actually continuing to participate instead of taking your toys and going home (aka elsewhere). By the way, why do you want Wall Streeters'/ Banksters' "participation" anyway? Shouldn't it all, instead, be dismantled-not perpetuated "friendly-like"?

[-] 1 points by stratoliner (11) from Santa Fe, NM 12 years ago

I think these forums/comments are great! Instead of the mentally bankrupt going off and actually shooting banksters, they get to vent and talk about creating more of their own reality by not recognizing the many, many relaities there are and whining about the necessary evolution of OWS and actually continuing to participate instead of taking your toys and going home (aka elsewhere). By the way, why do you want Wall Streeters'/ Banksters' "participation" anyway? Shouldn't it all, instead, be dismantled-not perpetuated "friendly-like"?

[-] 1 points by texan1 (4) 12 years ago

Need to see this youtube.com/watch?v=P-nEkpLnsEU

[-] 1 points by oneeyeopen (1) 12 years ago

"The key to the ninety-nine is the one - particularly the one who is testing the patience and the good humor of the many. It's how you treat the one that reveals how you regard the ninety-nine, because everyone is ultimately a one."

  • Stephen R. Covey
[-] 1 points by stratoliner (11) from Santa Fe, NM 12 years ago

Stephen R. Covey, if you are the "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" guy, I respect your opinions but disagree with your analysis. Sure, all humanity and the earth is one. However, this is not about "green is good", watering the lawn, picking up trash, etc. This is about "new age" serfdom that is poisoning, frying the earth, paying mightily the minions of our police state/government/corporate guards to maintain the status quo. "Testing the patience and the good humor(?) of the many" by the 1% is not allowed in any philosophy when a death struggle is involved. We need not to blow kisses at the 1%; they definitely are not returning that love, and I'm tired of the zero-sum, non-paying public martyr status. Lovey-dovey time is over and the 1%, indeed, needs to be included and merged with the 99% economically, politically in a human sharing and responsibility.

[-] 1 points by rufust (22) 12 years ago

"Find a BFF" .....YES! Now you're being specific and making sense! "Anonymous" should take hold of this list and really play with it. No more Mr. Nice Guy! The wealthy elites only laugh at nice "flower protest people" while they continue to steal! How do you think they got there in the first place by being nice? Are you stupid??????

[-] 1 points by skb (8) from Albuquerque, NM 12 years ago

I don't think that letter writing is at all a bad idea. People write to companies all the time if they are not satisfied with a product or service. If the letters are meant to enlighten companies and their executive boards as to the plight of people affected by them, it is not childish. Addressing the people at the top may serve to provide an opportunity for them to hear a message that may otherwise be lost in the crowd. A name to each plight, a face to each name. If a tactic like this is to be beneficial, it must communicate peacefully, honestly. Word bashing and slander should never be a part of this movement. The truth is enough to set us free.

[-] 1 points by DeezWhat (1) 12 years ago

The Executive of these company's are just as much victims of this system as we are, granted, it may not feel that way. I know it's hard to watch our brothers get flash-grenade'd, teargas'd, pepperspry'd and beaten... and I know it makes us angry, resentful and hateful. but this isn't the answer! we must rise above our oppressors, if we hope to be victorious!

Occupytogether

Sign, #OccupyHouston

[-] 1 points by rufust (22) 12 years ago

This post was removed so So I'll post this AGAIN!

Your problem is that you need to make specific demands for change and list them at the top of you website so people can easily find them and know what you want and what you're about. You should include:

Free public only funded elections and free media access for all candidates.

No more access only for billionaires, wall street/pentagon whores, and rich wealthy actors!

Election day shall be a national holiday so all can vote.

No longer shall candidates be barred from public election debates because some fascist

claims they have no chance to win!

Free education for all.

Free media access for coverage of all public demonstrations and foreign wars, instead of forcing the press to cower at the sidelines a block away so the cowardly can sweep in, in the middle of the night, to carry out their illegal actions like they just did in Oakland Ca.

Feel free to ad to this list.

[-] 1 points by KLyon42 (9) 12 years ago

There comes a point where protest without action becomes irrelevant.
Making good faith efforts to assure that the facts we base decisions on are true is critical but there are those who indeed need to have their impressions of being removed from the masses corrected. I fully support this path; engaging those who have felt themselves so far removed from the populous they wield such control over is an important intervention and a goal worth pursuing.

[-] 1 points by carrienation (13) 12 years ago

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO THINK YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO ATTACK AND CRITICIZE FELLOW PROTESTORS, THINK ABOUT THIS: YOU ARE AIDING AND ABETTING THE 1%.

Open your minds, open your hearts...don't poison the movement with your emotional or psychological dilemmas - please - look, i'm not saying you don't have a right or a reason to be pissy, but can you just take it somewhere else? Man, we need to come together and be creative and constructive, put our differences aside for a higher calling. If you want to bitch, that's ok, but bitch to your friends who can talk back and put you in your place, in a cool or real way, because they know you so much better than an anonymous cyber-enemy on the web...

When i see all this infighting amongst people who are supposed to be on the same team, it worries me greatly...we need each other, each and everyone of us, there is strength and safety in numbers...i HATE that i have to talk like a frigging kindergarten teacher at a playground! KEEP IT TOGETHER PEOPLE, take the high road, the one definitely less travelled...the only one we can take to realize our goals...

Peace is so underrated - but peace equals POWER - especially among our fellow protestors!

[-] 1 points by boobookachoo (2) 12 years ago

"...Wall Street elites who wrecked the economy and made the rest of us pay." LOL Have you ever considered that it’s your elected officials to blame? They make the laws that the banks have to obey. Or maybe your idiot neighbor who thinks he can afford a million dollar house on his 36k income. Or maybe it’s the stockholders who push the banks for more and more profit? How many of your daddies hold bank stocks in their 401ks? How many of you? You want to get rid of big business? It’s simple stop buying so much stuff.

[-] 1 points by boobookachoo (2) 12 years ago

"...Wall Street elites who wrecked the economy and made the rest of us pay." LOL Have you ever considered that it’s your elected officials to blame? They make the laws that the banks have to obey. Or maybe your idiot neighbor who thinks he can afford a million dollar house on his 36k income. Or maybe it’s the stockholders who push the banks for more and more profit? How many of your daddies hold bank stocks in their 401ks? How many of you? You want to get rid of big business? It’s simple stop buying so much stuff.

[-] 1 points by cheeseus (109) 12 years ago

Isn't the general assembly just like a boardroom? The protesters the shareholders? The contributions being exploited by a select few? OWS has become a corporation!

[-] 1 points by mr37212 (1) from Bell Buckle, TN 12 years ago

There is a must see movie for every American. It delineates the actions of Wall Street financial engineers and the roles they played in the global financial collapse. I know many of you may have seen it,but I suspect most have not. It's called Inside Job its was produced,written and directed by Charles Ferguson. It has won many awards and gets right to the heart of what happened, and where the financial schemers are today. Please stop and take the time to watch it. You will be shocked and dismayed. P.S. Public movements(outcrys) aren't always pretty don't let the media shame you into going home-- Work to gel your message directly at Wall Street and the Wall Street based government in Washington.

[-] 1 points by Marlow (1141) 12 years ago

One Address.. 'Fits All'!

...."Riker's Island"! ..

[-] 1 points by JimmyMacK (11) from Saskatoon, SK 12 years ago

OK. My turn. I am the 99%. While I live here, was born and raised here, I AM NOT CANADIAN. I cannot be, because I am not in support of the crookedness that Canada supports and perpetuates.

I'm a 42 year old, 4th year Honours student of Sociology/Criminology with plans of snagging a law degree en route towards a Masters and PHD in Sociology/Criminology...

The System, does not work. It hasn't worked for decades. The system wants to stay the same, because in failing, it succeeds. ....by increasing the bottom line.

If Crime rises...then that's a failure of our attempt to reduce crime. However, it equates to success for our Governments, because they expand the budget, hire more corrections, policing, judges, lawyers, victims services people, probation officers, counsellors, make everything illegal to widen the net to fill the new prisons! Then they instill fear in everyone by highly publicizing the rare, severe crimes. Most of our little old ladies get scared, and vote for the dude with the biggest crime bill on the platform.

My mom taught school here in Saskatchewan for 35 years. My dad died in 1984. I'm a high caliber athlete and a bodybuilder. I've tried over 50 different jobs from 1987-1997 and got nowhere. I've held 3 jobs since at approximately 5 years each. I'm a highly driven humanitarian, mature, responsible, parent, acquaintance, friend, student, person. I'm the good guy. A monstrous, globally recognizable corporation saw fit to fabricate a conspiracy and terminate me a month before Christmas last year. I'm educated, i'm an elite producer whether in sales or labour. I may win the arbitration, but the corporation will continue to seek out potential firings.

Our Crown Corporations in Saskatchewan boast profits of $95M to $150M annually.(or more, haven't looked lately)

They are the 1%.

For those of you who have never had to call on the system ( ie. police, family court, criminal court, social services, medical care, educational system, government insurance), I think you'd be appalled at how it really operates.

From police coercion to create crime, and impede decent people...to, pyramid scheming insurance agencies (they don't actually cover you if you're hurt in a motor vehicle accident-my mom paid herself out of her own savings because she, volunteered to be rear ended on the freeway by a 16 year old driver's 3rd accident in her first year of driving.

My mom, who served Canada as a teacher for 35 years, is permanently disabled, yet has been tortured by the rehab facility (that the crown insurance company uses exclusively) denied any insurance coverage, forced to deplete her own savings to compensate. They pit their doctors against public doctors and simply deny reality to keep the money. Try to argue it upwards and you are squashed because they make their own rules.

Levels of Bureaucracy need to GO.

I've had to make several appearances in family court over 8 years for lawyers and judges to take my family's money, and render idiotic decisions that are designed to hinder situations, and perpetuate the problem....so that they can bill us again! JUST TO BE MY SON'S FATHER

I'm a man. I can make my own decisions about what's best for my child.

How come my Fellow Man, the lawyer, the judge, the counsellor, the social service worker, the nurse, the doctor, the teacher..... .....ALL FEEL THE NEED TO FUCK US OVER...EVERY TIME WE COME TO THEIR COUNTER WITH OUR DOUGH OUT?? WHY!!!??

Why do chiropractors twist you into pain...and schedule you for '3 more appointments'?....why do rotten counsellors and psychologists and doctors and psychiatrists and all such leeches, keep scheduling more appointments? Are they incapable of solving the professional issues they face?...or do they simply choose not to help?

FYI, our chiropractic visits were mandated in the last 2 years and increased from $17 per visit to $35 per visit overnight. No wonder the chiropractor wants to injure us....more visits=more dough for him/her/

Here in Saskatchewan, these professions are protected by peer organizations that will cover their asses. Further, these professions, are contracted by our local government....these professions want to bill our government as much as possible...but if they solve your individual problem for you, they won't be able to bill the government for your visit....next week....and the week after.....

We are advanced and educated human beings. We are thinkers. We see how the 1% operates.

Greed is the problem. Bureacracy is the problem. Individual people who keep mistreating their fellow citizens by stealing their money are the problem.

The 1% like Greed. They like Bureaucratic stagnation. They like hiring dummies who can't or won't think for themselves, or for their fellow human. I could go on....but we need MORE ACTION!!!

OWS is right. We need a different system. We need to be more than pawns of the 1%. We are creative. We are feeling. We are not possessions. We are not things.

We are PEOPLE!!

WE ARE THE 99% EH!!!

[-] 1 points by jcruz4114 (5) from West Palm Beach, FL 12 years ago

Love it!

[Removed]

[-] 1 points by frankchurch1 (839) from Jersey City, NJ 12 years ago

Actually, the 1% have lawyers.

[-] 1 points by AbeltheAngered (3) 12 years ago

Love the use of the word solidarity and the fact that you'll welcome Noam Chomsky to your protest. The amount of news coverage you're receiving is shrinking and devolving into individual interviews and personal issues among your ranks. The hyperpolitical correctness and sensitivy to one anothers personal hot buttons has inspired me to support my sisters in the struggle and to make ammends for the damage caused by the male dominated culture of greed I therefore plan to neuter myself and change my name to 99% Cunt.

[-] 1 points by AbeltheAngered (3) 12 years ago

Love the use of the word solidarity and the fact that you'll welcome Noam Chomsky to your protest. The amount of news coverage you're receiving is shrinking and devolving into individual interviews and personal issues among your ranks. The hyperpolitical correctness and sensitivy to one anothers personal hot buttons has inspired me to support my sisters in the struggle and to make ammends for the damage caused by the male dominated culture of greed I therefore plan to neuter myself and change my name to 99% Cunt.

[-] 1 points by ThePenSword (2) 12 years ago

I don't care WHAT they're suggesting; I'm so HAPPY that we, as a united force, are doing SOMETHING.

[-] 1 points by Bellaciao29 (99) 12 years ago

The protesters of "a non violent Movement" boycott television and shopping, take back their money from the banks and don't send their sons in the wars. If we'll have the courage to do that, the liberists will look like a few fish in a bowl without water.

[-] 1 points by rottkamp (8) 12 years ago

I think many of these criticisms are valid but misplaced. This is a gimmick that can help with recruitment and PR; it is not a statement of values, even if some say otherwise.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carnivalesque "In the carnival, as we have seen, social hierarchies of everyday life—their solemnities and pieties and etiquettes, as well as all ready-made truths—are profaned and overturned by normally suppressed voices and energies."

[-] 1 points by serenity (2) 12 years ago

I just opened the link and found that there are numerous instructions to be polite, not to harrass the person verbally, and to be constructive. I think it might be better to have this info on the home page instead of within.I also imagine some "mods" will be checking these message before they are sent. is this correct ows folks?

[-] 1 points by diogocvalle1 (1) 12 years ago

Is ows a social movement or a kind of joke? Stop losing time, you're begining to be heard here in Brazil, try to do something serious

[-] 1 points by eccupi (4) 12 years ago

I'd like to point out that Erskine Bowles, Morgan Stanley Board Member, is on Obama's National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform. That commission votes on reforms on December 3rd. The focus is on the deficit which we can afford (I only learned about "the deficit" as fear-mongering this year), as joblessness persists and our healthcare system is 3rd world status. This commission could instantiate a financial speculation tax estimated to raise $150 billion a year. Instead they are currnently on course to destroy Social Security and Healthcare for good. THE DEFICIT COMMISSION NEEDS A WAKE UP CALL FROM US. I believe this would be more productive than the letter campaign proposed here, though I am still down with this as well. We are in this together. Love to all!

[-] 1 points by demonspawn79 (186) 12 years ago

Why is the contact info censored and why do we have to use a form to send our message? Seems like a great way for the FBI to track people.

[-] 1 points by lifesprizes (298) 12 years ago

There is nothing violent about this post. It brings awareness and much light to the situation at hand.

[-] 1 points by Rogue23 (1) 12 years ago

Please please do not lose focus on the real driving force of this movement!! Place these energies on coming up with a solid game plan as to what WE THE PEOPLE are truly seeking here. This is not it. To waste valuable personal resources to harass and judge others is self defeating and draining. We need to shift focus from what or how much more the 1% has in monetary or luxury form to how we can influence real change; i.e. social security reform, health care, local farms and food supply, new and renewable energy sources that will have less or positive impacts on planet earth. This should NOT be an attack on individuals but on the entities/institutions that have no accountability. Stay FOCUSED people. This is a mental and spiritual evolution.

[-] 1 points by blkflg (98) 12 years ago

No doubt that threatening letters will be written to the "listed" people with the very possibility of even death threats...see ya in 10 to 20.....idiots.

[-] 1 points by momo84 (3) 12 years ago

You all are a bunch of loosers , If u think that your letters or emails are gonna "rescue " the 1% then u might as well believe that a cow can jump over the moon. We need to realize that the 1% doesn't give a rat's ass about us. They're following their plan that has started hundreds of years ago, what we need to do is occupy all the wall streets in the world and let them kno that we kno their mind games and that enough is enough.

[-] 1 points by momo84 (3) 12 years ago

You all are a bunch of loosers , If u think that your letters or emails are gonna "rescue " the 1% then u might as well believe that a cow can jump over the moon. We need to realize that the 1% doesn't give a rat's ass about us. They're following their plan that has started hundreds of years ago, what we need to do is occupy all the wall streets in the world and let them kno that we kno their mind games and that enough is enough.

[-] 1 points by momo84 (3) 12 years ago

You all are a bunch of loosers , If u think that your letters or emails are gonna "rescue " the 1% then u might as well believe that a cow can jump over the moon. We need to realize that the 1% doesn't give a rat's ass about us. They're following their plan that has started hundreds of years ago, what we need to do is occupy all the wall streets in the world and let them kno that we kno their mind games and that enough is enough.

[-] 1 points by pissedoffconstructionworker (602) 12 years ago

It wasn't enough to ironically spell the word "loser" with two "o"s, you had to do it three times.

[-] 1 points by strongcube (2) from Houston, TX 12 years ago

and kno twice in the same sentence

[-] 1 points by strongcube (2) from Houston, TX 12 years ago

Stick to marching and outreaching. That is what gets the people inspired. It is about the freestyle and numbers of the people, not writing letters to people who have no heart, obligation, or eyes to read our sob stories. This could lead to harassment charges towards OWS. Letters should go to Washington. They are obligated to listen. Seriously reconsider because if worse comes to worse, you could go to court and not be allowed to come near any bank while in protest mode.

If you stick to the plan, then have others read the letters in their local occupy forum before being sent, with signatures to verify; otherwise some wise ass hater can jeopardize it by sending hate mail.

[-] 1 points by againstgreed (1) from Montevideo, Montevideo 12 years ago

Wow-what's with all disparaging remarks? The 99% have been cheated, lied to, brutalized and systematically disconnected from the natural earth. It's small wonder that opinions are so disparate. Focus energy on (at a minimum) keeping informed, help where you can and join when you r ready. These negative comments may have some reason, but we must assume for now, they come from the % of the 99 that are still hypontized by the system we wish to bring down. Keep it non-violent, but keep it up. Email and letters are a good start. People should know the names of EVERYONE who is on the other side. Block traffic next? Sure.Let's see where this leads. And yes, people following do need to have something to do that's proactive. MLK is a good example to follow. Shoot for respect and trust of the public and even missteps can be corrected. Remember, the 1% are obvious targets, there are millions of hyper ambitious wanna be's who support them. Think about how this movement can win over and include everyone. BTW, I am 8 years old.

[-] 1 points by HopefulinOhio (2) from Hilliard, OH 12 years ago

I think this could be a good idea. the potential for harassment is present, but I believe this movement is better than that. At least it has the potential to be better that. If the drafters of this proposal and those who carry it out harbor no malicious intent, then this may serve as a fun way to shine spotlights on specific individuals, protocols, and behaviors that serve as bad examples. The things movements don't agree with help to define its purpose, and there is no reason that we can edit the book on civil disobedience. Following outdated models contributed to the mess we are in.

[-] 1 points by JohnWa (513) 12 years ago

Headliner


"The poll numbers are out. If Occupy Wall Street were a national candidate for president, it would be blowing away every other candidate on the stage, including Barack Obama and Mitt Romney. Fifty-four percent of Americans agree with the protesters, versus 44 percent who think President Obama is doing a good job. Seventy-three percent of Americans want prosecutions for Wall Street executives for the crisis. Seventy-nine percent think the gap between rich and poor is too large. Eighty-six percent say Wall Street and its lobbyists have too much power in Washington. Sixty-eight percent think the rich should pay more in taxes. Twenty-five percent of the public considers itself upset, 45 percent is concerned about the country and 25 percent is downright angry."

http://www.alternet.org/story/152845/occupy_wall_street%3A_the_primary_the_president_never_had/


So the message is getting through. The next step will need to be organizational BUT badly done all will be divided and they will rule again.

Time and brains with some sharp experienced leaders and advisers who won't sell out. A group using consensus is better than a sole figurehead.

VERY BIGG MONEY FRON THE 1% WILL BE PUT TOWARDS DESTROYING ANY CHANGE FROM THEIR POWER POSITION.

If given a chance all weakenesses in OWS will be exploited.

Some united front has to develop over time .

Ignore the right wing trolls and remain non violent in action and words.

[-] 1 points by Rael (176) 12 years ago

Of course 54% of Americans agree with the protesters. You currently aren't for anything. You are against a nebulous definition of corporate greed and the unholy alliance of large corporations and government. I am against it too but I am a conservative. If OWS were a national candidate for president it would need to articulate some positions. As soon as some positions that are not glittering generalities are formulated, you will see much support peel off.

[-] 1 points by beaucphs (18) 12 years ago

Sun Tzu's Art of War: So it is said that if you know your enemies and know yourself, you can win a hundred battles without a single loss. If you only know yourself, but not your opponent, you may win or may lose. If you know neither yourself nor your enemy, you will always endanger yourself.

[-] 1 points by LloydJHart (190) from Vineyard Haven, MA 12 years ago

The only way to get change from the oligarchs is to cut off their access to profits and shut down business as usual in every city in America. The above idea is just a pathetic attempt to keep the supporters busy.

Support for OWS is not growing, it's shrinking, If OWS does not put out some real demands and back them up with real leverage producing actions, the public will completely turn their back on OWS.

OWS keeps pretending that they invented a new form of protest when there are a multitude of people out here with experience fighting the system who have discovered long ago that everything OWS has done so far does not work and will not work against a most cynical group of oligarchs in control of the purse strings of our society.

You can turn yourself inside out screaming at these oligarchs and get absolutely nothing. Tell me, what are you going to do when the system has worn you down this winter and you have achieved absolutely nothing but group therapy?

OWS you are squandering the momentum of this movement and the support of all of us who have given money and time.

Occupy Wall St. has no leverage to force change and until we get some nothing will change.

If OWS blocks traffic it will stop business as usual and give OWS leverage to force change.

Guidelines for Non-Violent Civil Disobedient Traffic Blocking. http://occupywallst.org/forum/guidelines-for-non-violent-civil-disobedient-traff/

[-] 1 points by beaucphs (18) 12 years ago

Sun Tzu's Art of War: So it is said that if you know your enemies and know yourself, you can win a hundred battles without a single loss. If you only know yourself, but not your opponent, you may win or may lose. If you know neither yourself nor your enemy, you will always endanger yourself.

[-] 1 points by beaucphs (18) 12 years ago

Sun Tzu's Art of War: So it is said that if you know your enemies and know yourself, you can win a hundred battles without a single loss. If you only know yourself, but not your opponent, you may win or may lose. If you know neither yourself nor your enemy, you will always endanger yourself.

[-] 1 points by 1stofMay (1) 12 years ago

AIG aka 21st Century Insurance. Don't forget 'em, folks. Move your INSURANCE! They got big time TARP $'s and immediately went on a luxury spending spree if y'all remember. They've escaped notice and thus incurred no wrath since then - they're laying low now- but they are richly deserving of the same enmity which is being directed at the TARP banks.

[-] 1 points by maxmartionii (3) 12 years ago

Jones Group Inc

The New York Times recently ran an article with evidence that China sold nuclear weapons to countries in the Middle East.(http://www.nytimes.com/1991/06/10/world/china-said-to-plan-new-arms-sales-us-is-concerned.html ) Western diplomats and other experts are increasingly expressing concern over China's actions. Despite this, Americans still overlook the critical problem with China. Unlike America and many other world powers, China embraces communism. This system of government is fundamentally opposed to the democratic ideals espoused in America.

While it is each country's right to self-govern, it is important that Americans understand the dire consequences if China continues to thrive and exert power the way it has in recent years. A world dominated by Chinese interests will signify a loss of liberty for everyone, especially Americans.

Therefore, it is up to Americans to protect our freedoms. It is our social responsibility to stop supporting companies that outsource work to China. Companies such as the Robert Rodriguez Design Collection, the Jones Group Inc., have all outsourced to China, pouring millions of dollars into that economy. The Chinese government, in turn uses eighty percent of that profit and reinvests it into military growth. If Americans continue to patronize these companies, we are ultimately funding our own destruction.

The New York Towers are just a reminder of what further destruction could be incurred if China is allowed to flourish and provide missiles to countries that oppose us. It is time for Americans to take social responsibility and stop supporting companies that undermine America before it is too late.

[-] 1 points by JohnWa (513) 12 years ago

Who demolished the 2 WTC building with thermite explosives. Don't swallow the myth that planes brought them down. WTC 7 wasn't even touched by a plane but was also demolished by explosives.

I suggest you widen your information sources. Good luck with your education.

Laws of physics don't change because bush tell whopping great porkies.

Try the very reputable and professional building analysis experts here.

http://www.ae911truth.org/

Spend a bit of time each day following through the many references, Do beware the many sites set up to debunk the thorough science, engineering opinion and investigation by Architects and Engineers for 911 truth. This site could change your life.

[-] 1 points by maxmartionii (3) 12 years ago

Jones Group Inc

The New York Times recently ran an article with evidence that China sold nuclear weapons to countries in the Middle East.(http://www.nytimes.com/1991/06/10/world/china-said-to-plan-new-arms-sales-us-is-concerned.html ) Western diplomats and other experts are increasingly expressing concern over China's actions. Despite this, Americans still overlook the critical problem with China. Unlike America and many other world powers, China embraces communism. This system of government is fundamentally opposed to the democratic ideals espoused in America.

While it is each country's right to self-govern, it is important that Americans understand the dire consequences if China continues to thrive and exert power the way it has in recent years. A world dominated by Chinese interests will signify a loss of liberty for everyone, especially Americans.

Therefore, it is up to Americans to protect our freedoms. It is our social responsibility to stop supporting companies that outsource work to China. Companies such as the Robert Rodriguez Design Collection, the Jones Group Inc., have all outsourced to China, pouring millions of dollars into that economy. The Chinese government, in turn uses eighty percent of that profit and reinvests it into military growth. If Americans continue to patronize these companies, we are ultimately funding our own destruction.

The New York Towers are just a reminder of what further destruction could be incurred if China is allowed to flourish and provide missiles to countries that oppose us. It is time for Americans to take social responsibility and stop supporting companies that undermine America before it is too late.

[-] 1 points by JohnWa (513) 12 years ago

China is not to blame for America's mess. America is.

China has not gone around the world invading countries - America has to feed the greedy war machine making money and spoils for the 1%.

You say freedom, or freedumb. or are you just joking. The 1% want freedom to do as thay like and do it. They own the politicians.

That freedom taken deprives the rest of freedom and democracy.

That is what OWS is about. Just look at the statistics.

The average Lybian was better off than the average US citizen regarding the family basic needs- that is before the sponsored invasion. Free housing, free medical for life, free education including tertiary, life expectancy that beats 4 states in the USA , food assistance if necessary, a grant for married couples to get started and an old age pension as of right. No insurance parasites to pay for nor fund managers to get fat and yet we are told how wrong that all is. Ha .

Who are the foolish ones who believe the propaganda we are fed and don't check its validity. China has run a population control through birth numbers and this program has prevented another population increase of 400million. More than USA whole population. It is a big country with many poor people. 4.4 times the population of the US yet China uses less petrol than California, produces less than quarter the CO2 emissions per person than does the USA. China has the highest growth in renewable energy and doubles the US investment in clean energy production and lead the world in wind energy production. Solar energy production is close behind and gaining ground. It is developing a smart grid for local power production and can do this because the Govt coordinates and implements the planning and construction. No profit motive for greedy corporations, just progress in meeting needs in an intelligent planned way with efficiency and often low tech..

If you do a bit of research then you may see China differently without loosing your loyalty to what is good in America. We don't need out 1% bankers stripping the life blood out of America and that is surely what OWS is about.

[-] 1 points by guarionexxx (8) from Bronx, NY 12 years ago

This is a great idea, just you guys are making it into a joke when this is a serious topic. If someone that lost their house to a bank and has the chance to write to that son of a bitch, he isn't going to approach the message jokingly.

This is a bad time to use humor.

[-] 1 points by MyHeartSpits (448) 12 years ago

Okay, this is not a good move, but it only serves as a reminder to all those posting in this forum to get down to Wall St. and block stuff like this personally. If you're not directly involved, you can't complain.

[-] 1 points by mijojustin (5) 12 years ago

Occupy Trump Tower, and Donald Trumps other Business properties (Because he is the Greediest Rich man in America!!!

[-] 1 points by occupytrump (12) from New York, NY 12 years ago
[-] 1 points by johnis48 (72) 12 years ago

washington D.C. march on the national mall and camp out. from there to Capitol.

[-] 0 points by therising (6643) 12 years ago

RIGHT ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Here's one way to do it (8 specific demands that are actionable and will make a difference PLUS tactics to ensure successful outcome. This is one way to do DC right! http://occupywallst.org/forum/proposed-list-of-demands-please-help-editadd-so-th/

Here's one way to do it (8 specific demands that are actionable and will make a difference PLUS tactics to ensure successful outcome. This is one way to do DC right! http://occupywallst.org/forum/proposed-list-of-demands-please-help-editadd-so-th/

[-] 0 points by johnis48 (72) 12 years ago

Yes this is a must. congress needs to know where the majority of americans stand. Gov't needs to understand the will of the people has to be listened too.

[-] 1 points by therising (6643) 12 years ago

Pls spread the word far and wide

[-] 1 points by Jbear (60) from Greenfield, MA 12 years ago

This is brilliant. It is not immature or juvenile. It's silly, but humour is important in a movement like this. Most importantly it gets a real message across to the people who need to hear it. Also, I'd love to hear from people who have sent their message and heard back from their pen pal/bff.

[-] 1 points by ithink (761) from York, PA 12 years ago

Fantastic!

[-] 1 points by bustwashington (2) 12 years ago

OWS needs to be in Washington D.C . That is where all the money funneling starts. Talk about crony capitalism, this is going on now in the oval office. It is Washington that is washing us down the drain. Beware, don't let them use you as their pawns. Control them. Get to D.C.!

[-] 0 points by johnis48 (72) 12 years ago

I fully agree need to have millions take over the National mall

[-] 0 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

OWS is there. Herman Cain's ignorance not withstanding.

[-] 1 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

I think it's time to turn our discontent where it belongs: Washington, DC. Nine out of ten individuals in this country earn less than $60k/yr (Dept. of Labor 2009). Understand, this means a room with 1000 people in it, 900 of those earn less than $60k. In our Congress of 535 members, not one is from the 90% crowd, not one! This is a travesty....talk about taxation w/o representation! Let's coalesce the OWS movements across our country; unite, demand our politicians work for us. If not.......take names and ready a primary opponent. The Tea Party did it why can't we?

[-] 1 points by TeaPartyPat (5) 12 years ago

"The Tea Party did it why can't we?" Because they were not a bunch of misguided Communist pawns being used to advance the Leftist agenda for total control, for starters.

[-] 1 points by Joe4more (165) from Cranston, RI 12 years ago

But you are a group of "something" being used, don't kid yourself. The Tea Party movement was highjacked by Dick Army et at; what have your TP reps in Congress done? Oppose Obama for opposition sake! Many "original" TP are pissed off at this new 112th Congress. To paint everybody in the OWS movement with a broad brush of "Communist pawns" is ignorant at best; for some reason, the TP establishment frowns on this movement, yet wraps itself in the Constitution. What part of the movement aren't you happy with? The fact that is HASN'T been co-opted by big corporations as is the case with the Tparty? Perhaps you want a list of demands, which proves you don't get it. Open your mind, the "villagers have taken to the town square", what part of that don't you understand?

[-] 1 points by frankchurch1 (839) from Jersey City, NJ 12 years ago

Businessweek has a stupid article saying that the movement is hurting local small businesses.

I do hope occupiers are buying things at the local businesses. But, that's another ting.

[-] 2 points by 2004r1 (6) from Minnetonka, MN 12 years ago

As a ex small business owner that knows many small business owners that is propaganda, Everyone I know has been hurting since the money was "pulled out" of the economy in 2007. I cut my losses I know many others still struggling to pay their mortgages and utilities....

[-] 0 points by frankchurch1 (839) from Jersey City, NJ 12 years ago

Let's also not forget folks that big corporations put small business out of business--one of the reasons small business should be protesting instead of eating from the Chamber of Commerce feed bag.

[-] -1 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

They are. Stay informed.

[-] 2 points by aaronparr (597) 12 years ago

heh. Down votes must have assumed the worse by my comment. The OWS is buying from local businesses was my point. Gawd, you people are predictable.

[-] 0 points by tsizzle (73) from De Pere, WI 12 years ago

so, now just paying a mortgage qualifies one as the filthy rich...nice...this country is better shape than I thought

[-] 0 points by rufust (22) 12 years ago

God Bless America - 5% of the worlds population, 25% of the worlds prison population!

[-] 1 points by 2004r1 (6) from Minnetonka, MN 12 years ago

do you have a link for that statistic?

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[-] 1 points by jcruz4114 (5) from West Palm Beach, FL 12 years ago

I love the analogies! Well said!

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[-] 0 points by GarnetMoon (424) 12 years ago

Calm down people. The above statement is very clear in its objective, not really any different from massive letter writing campaigns, phone bombs, or petitions that we all routinely receive that sometimes ask us for a personal statement pertaining to how we have been affected. Have you ever bothered to read some of those personal messages? I certainly have; two examples: "Eat the rich" and "You clowns ought to be in jail"

I also don't see any body objecting to people parodying the 1% by all the antics that have been used time and time again... Stop and think for a moment before you decry this as childish. I agree with the statement by zahid.

[-] 0 points by velveeta (230) 12 years ago

"One Percent Club" artwork - free to download and print

http://www.gallerymjb.com

[-] 0 points by Joeschmoe1000 (270) 12 years ago

Boy o boy. You guys are over the top. When someone gets hurt by some nut his or her blood will be on your hands. At this point we ought to shut it down.

[-] 0 points by sdcheung (76) 12 years ago

And fak the naysayers...go with it!

[-] 0 points by sdcheung (76) 12 years ago

Direct Action @ Work, damn this is brilliant!

[-] 0 points by anarchov (10) 12 years ago

Whaaaa...no Federal Reserve pen pals?

[-] 0 points by SteelWolf (19) from Santa Ana, CA 12 years ago

If this is your plan to effect change, then let me tell you, you've got no plan.

These people on your list all have multiple layers of assistants. If you write them, you're not going to do anything other than wind up in the Spam box of a junior executive assistant or some intern's trash can. Encouraging people to take the initiate to track these execs down in person and 'prank' them is inviting so much disaster it's absurd.

Do the smart thing. Take the call-and-write focus to Washington D.C. Find the politicians responsible for this mess, and make it known that you'll back primary challengers to them. The Tea Party did this very successfully.

You're looking at folks in seven or eight figure positions, what do they care about what some protestors think?

[-] 1 points by 2004r1 (6) from Minnetonka, MN 12 years ago

"what do they care about what some protestors think?" I'm sorry in case you haven't noticed movement is growing exponentially worldwide there will reach a point soon where it can no longer be swept under the rug.

[-] -1 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

"If this is your plan to effect change, then let me tell you, you've got no plan."

Perhaps another way of phrasing this is that not only is OWS leaderless but it is idealess. The last two recent articles here, first about the drummers, and now this, is just ridiculous.

[-] 0 points by azguy32 (1) 12 years ago

You should name this we are the glass half empty people. If these people are so down then why do they have smart phones, computers, and internet to post their stupid letters. Make your own path and stop asking for handouts. Take responsibility.

[-] 0 points by lisaizonline (13) 12 years ago

This is the most immature thing I've ever read. Are you serious?

[-] 0 points by mijojustin (5) 12 years ago

Occupy Trump Tower, and Donald Trumps other Business properties (Because he is the Greediest Rich man in America!!!

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

Which will serve to do nothing but just to bring Trump more attention, which he loves. Let Trump continue to have his millions which he earned greedy or not, and we'll let you continue to whine.

[-] 0 points by openthirdeye (7) 12 years ago

We should definately be writing our leaders ect. I also am totally for going to dc. American spring in the spring!

[-] 1 points by jcruz4114 (5) from West Palm Beach, FL 12 years ago

Great slogan idea! It is time for an "American Spring!"

[-] 0 points by jbell78 (152) 12 years ago

This is truly idiotic.

To think you had people spend time & effort putting that site together rather than setting up a publicly accessible place to track donations & spends is laughable.

[-] 0 points by sqrltyler (207) 12 years ago

Our very existence is under attack. Fracking is a type of gas drilling that injects millions of gallons of hydraulic fluids - a mixture of chemicals, water and sand - into a well to create pressure that cracks open rock underground, releasing natural gas. This process can deplete and contaminate local water, damage the environment and threaten public health.

There will be a vote coming up to allow a shale gas pipeline into NYC. 80% of the pipeline's load is unaccounted for, because there is no doubt that it will be going overseas, into the global market.

We have to bring maximum pressure on Cuomo to stop this from happening.

The devastating effects of Hydraulic Fracturing are well documented.

Natural Gas is not the answer, especially at this cost to our environment.

We can not be sustainable without water. We need water for drinking, crops and our life.

Fracking has been banned in a number of counties. We need to take a stand to get America to join them.

I beg everyone to sign this petition:

http://action.foodandwaterwatch.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6125&track=hp-051811-actioncenter

http://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/water/fracking/fracking-action-center/

[-] -1 points by April (3196) 12 years ago

Love it. They deserve much worse treatment. But when these banks run the country, destroy it, and ruin it some more, this is the least we can do to let them know how much they are despised. With some concerted effort, we could do MUCH worse things to the BIG banks. I'm not advocating that. So really, whats the harm in a little letter writing campaign? Maybe they never see it. Who cares. If nothing else, they could use a little harmless business disruption. This should be welcome news for them, something other than lawsuits coming at them!

[-] 1 points by TeaPartyPat (5) 12 years ago

I personally know several people on this list who are great people with wonderful families and the idea that you want to damage their lives and their livelihoods in the name of your extremely misguided campaign against the private markets is incomprehensible and a symptom of your sick thought processes. You are not Americans by any stretch of the imagination, you are invaders and traitors.

[-] 1 points by April (3196) 12 years ago

If you personally know these people, I am sad for you. I am sad for their families too. They should have opted not to start a family when they chose to sell their soul. Greed is an ugly thing. Greed is a personal failure of morality. I feel very sorry for the children of these people who have such a poor example of humanity in a parent.

Speaking of damaging lives - these 50 or so individuals damaged the lives of millions of their fellow Americans! Disgusting. Disgraceful. Despicable. So many people suffer because of their irresponsible, greedy, reckless actions. Our whole economy. Our whole country.

I can appreciate a person who is loyal to their friends. But really, think about what and who you are trying to defend. You are trying to defend the indefensible. There is no excuse for the devastation that these people of have caused with their criminal greed.

Maybe you just aren't living in the same world as the 99%. And therefore, cannot possibly understand. If that is the case, stay in your 1% bubble. And please don't try to defend the criminal greed that has hurt our country so much that you simply do not understand.

[-] -1 points by iloveobamasmama (-5) 12 years ago

100% of the douchebags who claim to be the 99% are full of baloney.

[-] -1 points by obamarapist (7) from Staten Island, NY 12 years ago

100% of the people who claim to be the 99% are 99.9999% full of shit.

[-] -1 points by lisaizonline (13) 12 years ago

Um, this isn't exactly what I tell my 8 year old a "pen pal" or a "BFF" is. Wait a minute. Who came up with this idea? A bitter man who has nothing better to do than channel his inner 8 year old self and think..."Hmmmm how can I be most beneficial and productive while using the maturity of a child?" You are twisted. And weird. Really weird.

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

Writing to somebody with a complaint in and of itself can have some logic, however, encouraging people to make it funny, give prizes, etc. is just making a joke out of OWS, and it is they themselves doing it to themselves. And then posting about it. Speaks volumes. Next they'll be having clowns and jugglers show up at Zuccotti.

[-] 1 points by serenity (2) 12 years ago

fyi -- The messages you see if you click one of the the links is much different. They provide concrete facts about each bank, then encourage people to be polite and constructive. So there is a bit of inconsistent tone being conveyed, probably unintended....

[-] 0 points by AnimalFarm (31) 12 years ago

I have looked at that, and even read some of folks' messages.

[-] -1 points by mijojustin (5) 12 years ago

Occupy Trump Tower

[-] -1 points by mijojustin (5) 12 years ago

One Place that Needs to Be occupied is Trump Tower And Donald Trumps other Places he is the most greediest man in america !!! Occupy Trump Tower, Occupy Trump Tower, Occupy Trump Tower