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We are the 99 percent

The hate of men will pass, and dictators die... (Inspiring words from Charlie Chaplin)

Posted 12 years ago on Dec. 19, 2011, 4:45 p.m. EST by OccupyWallSt

I'm sorry, but I don't want to be an emperor. That's not my business. I don't want to rule or conquer anyone. I should like to help everyone if possible; Jew, Gentile, black man, white. We all want to help one another. Human beings are like that. We want to live by each other's happiness, not by each other's misery. We don't want to hate and despise one another. In this world there is room for everyone, and the good earth is rich and can provide for everyone. The way of life can be free and beautiful, but we have lost the way. Greed has poisoned men's souls, has barricaded the world with hate, has goose-stepped us into misery and bloodshed. We have developed speed, but we have shut ourselves in. Machinery that gives abundance has left us in want. Our knowledge has made us cynical; our cleverness, hard and unkind. We think too much and feel too little. More than machinery, we need humanity. More than cleverness, we need kindness and gentleness. Without these qualities, life will be violent and all will be lost. The airplane and the radio have brought us closer together. The very nature of these inventions cries out for the goodness in men; cries out for universal brotherhood; for the unity of us all. Even now my voice is reaching millions throughout the world, millions of despairing men, women, and little children, victims of a system that makes men torture and imprison innocent people. To those who can hear me, I say, do not despair. The misery that is now upon us is but the passing of greed, the bitterness of men who fear the way of human progress. The hate of men will pass, and dictators die, and the power they took from the people will return to the people. And so long as men die, liberty will never perish.

Soldiers! Don't give yourselves to brutes, men who despise you, enslave you; who regiment your lives, tell you what to do, what to think and what to feel! Who drill you, diet you, treat you like cattle, use you as cannon fodder. Don't give yourselves to these unnatural men - machine men with machine minds and machine hearts! You are not machines, you are not cattle, you are men! You have the love of humanity in your hearts! You don't hate! Only the unloved hate; the unloved and the unnatural. Soldiers! Don't fight for slavery! Fight for liberty! In the seventeenth chapter of St. Luke, it is written that the kingdom of God is within man, not one man nor a group of men, but in all men! In you! You, the people, have the power, the power to create machines, the power to create happiness! You, the people, have the power to make this life free and beautiful, to make this life a wonderful adventure. Then in the name of democracy, let us use that power. Let us all unite. Let us fight for a new world, a decent world that will give men a chance to work, that will give youth a future and old age a security. By the promise of these things, brutes have risen to power. But they lie! They do not fulfill that promise. They never will! Dictators free themselves but they enslave the people. Now let us fight to fulfill that promise. Let us fight to free the world! To do away with national barriers! To do away with greed, with hate and intolerance! Let us fight for a world of reason, a world where science and progress will lead to all men's happiness. Soldiers, in the name of democracy, let us all unite!

Hannah, can you hear me? Wherever you are, look up Hannah! The clouds are lifting! The sun is breaking through! We are coming out of the darkness into the light! We are coming into a new world; a kindlier world, where men will rise above their hate, their greed, and brutality. Look up, Hannah! The soul of man has been given wings and at last he is beginning to fly. He is flying into the rainbow! Into the light of hope, into the future! The glorious future, that belongs to you, to me and to all of us. Look up, Hannah. Look up!

329 Comments

329 Comments


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

I like this inspirational speech. However, the Police and Soldiers are NOT our enemies. They are us, the 99%. They work for the 1%, just like the rest of us. Bob, "did NOT shoot the deputy".

[-] 3 points by TheEvilFuckaire (208) 12 years ago

But he shot the Sheriff in self defense. We must as a people recognize that VIOLENCE IS ACCEPTABLE in self defense. You cannot kill your neighbor for a loud stereo, but if he is shooting at you that is different.

[-] 2 points by nuck1es (59) from Port Hadlock-Irondale, WA 12 years ago

Open Message to Police. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zV0pl9yiURY Please, remember, they have their struggles, just like we have ours. Our intolerance to them will not make their decision easier, only fuse their obedience to orders. We will go nowhere without their support. Make their decision an obvious and easy one.

[-] 1 points by SwissMiss (2435) from Ann Arbor Charter Township, MI 12 years ago

They may have their struggles, but that doesn't give them the right to abuse and oppress others. THAT IS THE POINT.

[-] 1 points by struggleforfreedom80 (6584) 12 years ago

Yes, they´re just taking orders, just like we take orders from our boss (although some have very immoral and hostile attitudes as well)

The state and government are often very servile to the wealthy finacial elite, especially in the US where the wealthy more or less control policies. The police is a tool of the business-run, or business-influenced state to try to crush the ones who want to take back from the wealthy what has been stolen thru bailouts, exploitation and speculation at the stock exchange.

struggleforfreedom

[-] 2 points by Spankysmojo (849) 12 years ago

The rules are plain as day. Protect the constitution. Good job!

[-] 1 points by ClearView (73) 12 years ago

So very well said.

[-] 1 points by Redsuperficiality (96) 12 years ago

Why did you become a soldier? Why did you become a cop?

[-] 1 points by TheEvilFuckaire (208) 12 years ago

Needed a paycheck brother. But I still have free will. If they ever put me on an American street, and tell me I have to shoot, Americans I will die that day. I never once had to resort to violence when working law enforcement. In war I was shot at, but it was delayed indirect fire. ( rockets or mortars on a timer) I never even saw who was trying to kill me.

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

Reading your words, sir, I believe you'd enjoy reading the words of best-selling author Michael Connelly who's character Los Angeles Police Department Detective Harry Bosch says "Everyone counts, or no one counts."

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

The police are here to maintain law and order, which is really an inverse phrase - it should be "order and law." Not order in the sense of against chaos, but in the present order of those on top and their place in society as opposed to those who become the oppressed. The law is merely and instrument by which the poor and disenfranchised are crushed beneath the strike of the gavel. There is no "rule of law" there is merely the "law of rule." No one is subjected to a set of objective laws which apply equally to all in a hierarchical, property acquisition, system.

The recent militarization of the police is a reflection of the paranoia of the elite(fear of losing their property). This fear is spread and reflected in the culture at large. It will only get worse. The current government will never get it right, that is because it has never been a government of the people from the beginning, no matter what we were taught in school. They are there to serve a moneyed elite, and it is their business to protect this elite from the "leveling impulses" as the so called father of the Constitution said, Madison in the 10th Federalist Paper.

The stated purpose of this government from the beginning (USA) was to protect the propertied, with the faculties (privilege) of gaining more from those who hold no or little property. The average person who owns property can be assailed at any time by the propertied (through their franchise government) to take those who have little, to give to those who have more. It is as simple as raising a fee or duty (tax), or where hundreds of more powerful entities can attach to a property by a perceived offense or the inability to pay, etc (no matter what effect the powerful have invoked by almost bankrupting society). Average people do not hold property allodially (without fee or duty), as a king did in the past - that is because the power and type of ownership that average people have in essence means they own nothing under the correct circumstances, the concept of the kings property has passed to the moneyed elite (and this is what it ALWAYS reverts to sooner or later, because those with little property who think they are privileged become the duped fat around the midsection of the moneyed elite).

Indeed, the very process of property ownership not only engenders theft, war and police states, but encourages such by definition. There is more attrition of ownership of property systemically (note the recent foreclosure debacle) than any other method, that is because it is a monopoly of the rich and enfranchised

[-] 1 points by TheEvilFuckaire (208) 12 years ago

This is why I chose the name TheEvilFuckaire. See the Cheech and Chong film The Corsican Brothers. I am a country person, meaning I was raised in the middle of nowhere. Land is essential to survival and is therefore a right, not a privilege. All humans that cannot fly should be granted a specified amount of land on birth.

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[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 12 years ago

Thank you so much for that statement of individual responsibility.

Every one should circulate and share this statement.

[-] -1 points by Spankysmojo (849) 12 years ago

The only problem that I have with you is that a cop and a soldier are cut from the same jib (asshole). I like cops and I like soldiers but don't brag about striving to get a job that allows you to stop young girls, make them feel at a disadvantage and then let them off the hook if you get their telephone number or a blow job. In other words, the rest of society knows you are a predator. If you rebuke that then you can join us.

[+] -4 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

What about the officers that stand on the line, calm and collected while people scream obscenities at them? What about the officers that approach the protesters and talk to them about the arrest process and provide them with options, and then non-violently attempt to take them into custody? What about the officers who stand on the line, regardless of what their personal beliefs are - because they know that the maintenance of order is what allows all people the opportunity to voice their own beliefs?

The picture that OWS loves to paint is one that depicts every officer in uniform as an enemy of free speech, the "armed branch of an oppressive government," and jackbooted thugs is preposterous. You say you've been on the other side - you have got to look at some of these videos in which people cry "brutality" and realize that the officers were behaving reasonably under the conditions presented. You should also have some understanding of what it feels like to be vastly outnumbered and facing a crowd in which you do not know their intentions. Sometimes bad things happen in dynamic situations - bad things on both sides of the barricade.

Yes, there have been officers that have over stepped their bounds - and they should be dealt with harshly - they should be held responsible for their independent decisions. But for the thousands of officers that have stepped up to the line over the last 3 months, those cases are still in the vast minority.

This cry to "turn on your oppressors" is out of line. Maybe you need to take a step back yourself and gain some objectivity about the movement.

[-] 7 points by TheEvilFuckaire (208) 12 years ago

I see cops brutally infringing on free speech, not because they agree or disagree with what is being said, but to keep food on the table for their kids. I will feed my children and myself no matter what comes. I can live off the land. That makes me different than most. If the world burns down tomorrow I will still eat. That leaves me with the ability to think for myself. I can take care of myself. I can also stand and protect my community and my nation. I have done both. Have you protected your city from murderers and rapists? Gone to war? I have. I will not fight against Americans exercising their rights though. I like looking at the mirror when I shave, and looking at my children when I talk too much for that.

[-] -1 points by Perspective (-243) 12 years ago

Well you say you have but I think it's all BS

[-] 1 points by TheEvilFuckaire (208) 12 years ago

No one here knows anyone else personally, I accept the fact that without knowing me you can assume any statement I make is false. I don't believe you think I am lying, you cannot prove that you think I am lying, so I say it is BS. That is stupid. If I said I was a a superhero, I could see reasonable doubt about my statement. To be a cop, or a soldier, you only need a F@CKING GED or a High School Diploma. I am able to spell so it should not be too hard to believe.

[-] 0 points by Perspective (-243) 12 years ago

Lol I agree with your first statement whole heartedly. I just think your perspective is flawed. OWS wants to incite violence. They do everything they can to start a confrontation. I'm sure there have been a few LEO's that crossed the line but police have been far more patient than a lot of people would be.OWS hates police quite obviously.

[-] 1 points by cmt (1195) from Tolland, CT 12 years ago

By dramatizing and annoying the successful predators at the top, the OWS at Zuccotti set off a reaction that was much nastier than they expected. Oakland already had a long history of brutality in reaction to political demonstrations, so that was just policing as usual. This set the tone for "what worked" in the minds of many mayors.

[+] -4 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

They aren't infringing on free speech. In the vast majority of these arrests, the protesters are engaging in civil disobedience - that is their words - which by definition means breaking the law. In the city where I live, there is an encampment across the street from the police department and every saturday they hold marches around town. The arrests have been in the single digits because the protesters obey the law. In fact, they shun those who don't. They are exercising their right to free speech. Having a right to free speech doesn't mean you can infringe on other people's right to do so. That is where the arrests come from - not in any attempt to shut people up.

So, what if the officers that agree with the OWS movement (and I'm sure there are some) decided to turn around and use their training on their oppressors. Great. And then during a pro-gun rally the police officers that agree with that stance do the same. And then the officers that are working the line a feminists march decide not to do their jobs because they don't agree with the feminist movement. Or maybe the officers standing post during a pro-muslim rally decide they don't want to stand between the angry right-wing fundamentalists and the muslims.

Don't you understand that it is the job of the police to provide a opportunity for people to engage in free speech? In some cases without police it would be an all out brawl of opposing viewpoints.

And to your question about protecting my community and my nation - the answer is yes, and I continue to do both. Why is it that arresting a drunk pedestrian who refuses to get out of the street for impeding traffic different than arresting a protester that does the same thing? It isn't about fighting against Americans, it is about holding them accountable to the laws of this land.

[-] 3 points by karenpoore (902) 12 years ago

I understand your argument until I got to "it is about holding them accountable to the laws of this land." Do you want to think about this statement? Brutality to someone breaking a simple law of walking on the street as opposed to the criminality of what is going on in our financial and governmental systems where people are going free. Where are the police then?

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

Well. See. What is going on in our financial system has been made legal by our governmental system.

Which is why the police are not arresting the other side.

It is also why the other side has no fear of the Occupiers.

I say again... for the 100,000,000 time:

You want change, you must first get the politicians clean and second have them re-write the policies and tax codes.

Yelling at a blanketed 1%, protesting Wall Street, shutting down ports for a day... it's putting a bandaid on a failing hoover dam. It will never, ever accomplish what you seek.

You simply cannot "shame" Wall Street out of Washington.

[-] 0 points by karenpoore (902) 12 years ago

Last sentence >>> good point!

[-] -3 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

Once again, the cry of brutality. I said arrest - you said brutality. Do you really believe that every arrest of a person involves brutality? Good grief.

For what it is worth, those officers that you see in uniform on the streets everyday are not trained or equipped to conduct in-depth financial investigations at the corporate level. That isn't to say they are dumb - but you literally have to be an accountant to understand how this money is moved around. Yes - if it is a crime, it should be investigated - but that is going to be up to a federal agency, probably the FBI. Not the officer in the squad car. Cut him some slack.

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

I do not understand why this post has been down voted so much.

This person is 100% correct.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

hahahahaah... Thanks for pointing out the "votes." I hadn't noticed that before. i do find it entertaining that mr. Evil*taire has 8 positive votes and I have 3 negative. Even the comment where I agreed with someone else has been disliked.

That made my night!

[-] 1 points by karenpoore (902) 12 years ago

Okay, then where are the FBI??????

[-] -1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

I don't disagree with your frustration on this.

[-] -1 points by ombp2 (12) 12 years ago

Karenpoore--I think you need to go back to the basics. If you keep processing your ideas about justice and righting wrongs, then you will inevitably end up on the side of the police, who are enforcing the law of the land. Friendlyopposition isn't condoning wrongdoing at any level, but you seem to condone it (so long as it's on the "street" and not among the banking crowd). Be consistent in your thinking, and you'll find yourself supporting the cops.

[-] 3 points by karenpoore (902) 12 years ago

Sure I will support the police who put the poor "mainly" in prison when people with money go free. I worked at police departments, city attorney's offices, courts and law offices for a good twenty years. I know how it works.

[-] -1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

It is an unfortunate truth that crime rates are higher among the poor.

[-] 5 points by karenpoore (902) 12 years ago

Correction: crime rates are across the board amongst all classes. It is the poor that are put in prison.

[-] -2 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

If you have worked in the business, then you have to know that simply isn't true. The rates of both victimization and offense are much higher for those in the lowest socio economic classes. The chance of being robbed or assaulted or otherwise victimized is much greater among the poor, and the people that commit those crimes are also poor.

[-] 4 points by JDub (218) 12 years ago

thats cause the rich figured out how to rob us with out breaking the law, and keep doing it and doing it. Thus Maddof, Bailout, Tarpa, Public takeover of FAnnie and freddie. And often, they get away free of charge due to retroactive protection granted by bought and paid for public servants.

Oh joy. And people wonder why there is a cry of class warfare. Cause its true. And the police are the thugs of the rich. Don't think so? then why do tea partiers get to show up with guns, and no cops show up in riot gear, but a few thousand unarmed people camp out for a week and people are up in arms. HMMM.

[-] 0 points by ombp2 (12) 12 years ago

Now we're getting into the same trite garbage I've come to know and love. Blah blah blah...

[-] -1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

If they have figured out how to do it legally, then yes - it will not be found in any crime statistics. You are assuming that all tea partiers are rich, which they are not. They cross the spectrum of socio economic levels just like the OWS'ers. Finally, "a few thousand unarmed people" camp out - a few thousand. I dare say a few thousand people, armed or not, could cause a lot more mayhem with one person with a gun.

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

Statistically, they can't possibly all be rich. Not to have garnered the following that they have. Not saying I agree with everything they say, I certainly don't. But I do agree that it is impossible for all the Tea Partiers to be rich.

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

JDub stated nothing about the abundance or lack of wealth in either group so im not sure why you brought it up FO and it wasnt one person with a gun.... The police should know, along with any living thing, that violence begets violence. And no matter which side throws the first stone the police should practice constraint, its their JOB after all. Showing up with weapons to peaceful protest is also unnecessary. They can chose to bring weapons or not because they have a voice among their own. They could easily stand up to an overly agressive commanding officer or billionaire mayor just like the OWSers have.

[-] 0 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

(Can't reply below) Zkoynz - Maybe we aren't looking at the same post. What I read from JDub is "the rich figured out how" "class warfare" "thugs of the rich" and it was in response to an early message about the poor.

Police officers carry weapons. Like it or not - being a police officer can be a dangerous job and when you need a weapon you have to have it with you. An officer does not have the option of leaving his tools at home. Every protest and parade comes out of the gate claiming to be peaceful, however you cannot account for what is on the mind of every person there. In many cases, you have thousands of protesters and hundreds of officers. When this peaceful crowd has taken over the streets and begins infringing on the rights of others - what would you have officers do? Hold an assembly and vote on what actions they should take?

[-] -3 points by Perspective (-243) 12 years ago

Probably because Tea Partiers are peaceful,are within their rights under our Constitution to carry firearms,don't throw rocks bottles paint rebar at police,and leave the place they gathered cleaner than when they got there. (for those of you who don't know this is a rule from boy scouts,always leave your camp cleaner than when you got there.)

[-] 1 points by shoozTroll (17632) 12 years ago

They just get caught more often.

You don't find so many cops hanging out around penthouses.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

That's BS. You know there are neighborhoods in your town that you don't walk through alone and at night - and they aren't the rich neighborhoods. Why is it so hard for liberal minds to believe that crime and poverty are inherently linked? Like I have said before - I am not making a value judgement. I'm not saying that this is why rich people are better than poor people. In fact, it is a shame because crime is just one of the many challenges that the poor face.

If you lived in a poor, crime-ridden neighborhood and read the morning headline that said "Police to increase patrol in penthouses" you would flip out. You would scream about favoristim and elitism and cry that the police are just hired thugs for the rich. Oh wait...you're already screaming that...nevermind.

[-] 1 points by shoozTroll (17632) 12 years ago

The wallstreeters rob you for their coke, dmt and $100 scotch too.

That's the point.

Occupy wallstreet!

[-] 1 points by JDub (218) 12 years ago

it is an unfortunate paid for study that determines that crime rates are higher among the poor. Its a truth, that certain groups get prosecuted for things other groups are not. Simply put, They chose who's life to fuck over and who to spare. Thus artificially inflating the stats, making it look like rich people are somehow better.

[-] 1 points by alouis (1511) from New York, NY 12 years ago

I used to work in "child protection" sometimes alongside cops. I once got into a conversation with a detective who had worked narcotics at one time. I asked him if he thought there was more cocaine, marijuana, heroin and unaccountable money and jewelry at Trump Tower or in a project in the Bronx. He laughed. I said to him "you've swept up people on 149th Street and busted them for having some dope or what you think is too much cash on them. (THAT'S RIGHT, THAT HAS BEEN DONE).Why have you guys never done that at Trump Tower - or have you?" He laughed again.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

Everyone has a "I know his cop who told me" story. Here is the balancing act that the police have to deal with. On one side, you have a group like this one here who says "hey, there are drugs in the Trump tower - the police need to devote time and resources into making those arrests" and then you have others who would say "why are you spending so much time and resources on the rich criminals and not spending more time protecting my neighborhood?" Honestly, they can't win. The reality of it is, while there are drugs in the Trump Tower - people aren't being robbed, shot and murdered because of them. Should that be a free pass? No - but you have to dedicate manpower towards the greatest danger - danger to people. I know that every large city has federal task forces that deal with high level drug dealers and they seize millions of dollars and ridiculous amounts of drugs from high rollers. Of course...people complain about that too.

[-] 0 points by alouis (1511) from New York, NY 12 years ago

I would cancel the whole "drug war" to begin with. It's a proven loser. Its worse damage is being done in places like Mexico and Colombia but it does a lot of harm here too.

I was also refering to patently unconstitutional sweeps whereby anyone who is found in a given area is pushed against a wall and searched, the only "probable cause" being their being in that place. Of course never would this be done in a mainly white neighborhood, not even a working class one, let alone at Trump Tower. I was making a point that law enforcement is quite unequal, and the constitution offers little to no protection to many people.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

Do you really think that the number of armed robberies is the same for the poor as it is the wealthy? Do you really think the number of simple assaults is the same in poor neighborhoods as it in in rich neighborhoods? Do you really think that there are the same number of homes broken into, or cars broken into, or cars stolen? This isn't a value judgement, but purely a statement of fact. More crimes occur each week in poor neighborhoods than in rich neighborhoods. To think that there is a conspiracy to boost crime numbers in poor neighborhoods is laughable.

[-] 1 points by Diamond (51) from Stiens, FR 12 years ago

Do you not think that the bailout was an unarmed robbery? Don’t you think that the change of heart from the Democrats was an assault on democracy? Don’t you think that the banks stole the homes from thousands during the housing crisis? Off course you are right that the number of crimes is higher in poor neighborhoods But while they steal the crumbs, the rich steal the whole bakery.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

That's very flowery speech, and I do agree that the things that you mention are certainly WRONG. But they are not crimes - don't expect the police to deal with them.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

For some reason, I can't respond to Diamond below. Hopefully you see this. Police have a duty to serve and protect, but they can only do so within the bounds of the law. An officer can't make an independent judgement of what is right and wrong and lock someone up solely on his opinion. As for the second response, I'm afraid I don't understand what you are referring to. What state law in '39 or was it a federal law? I just don't follow.

[-] 1 points by Diamond (51) from Stiens, FR 12 years ago

Look into to serve and protectyour hear, have people not the right to give their children the best they can? That is what you are sworne to and to preserve and to protect

[-] 1 points by Diamond (51) from Stiens, FR 12 years ago

The are not crimes because we can call them within the law? In '39 there was a law that judes where against the state? follow the law?

[-] -1 points by karenpoore (902) 12 years ago

Going to bed ... Everyone enjoy the holidays with friends and family.

[-] 3 points by occupiedwithOWS2310 (11) from Shaftsbury, VT 12 years ago

I agree. I am troubled by the "Fuck The Police" chants. I am no fan of police, in fact they give me the chills. But on D17 and the march to Times Square, I spoke with many cops starting a conversation by saying "Thank you for keeping us safe and blocking traffic." Often the remained robotic and unresponsive, but occasionally the cop would crack a smile and have a quick friendly conversation. One even said, "That's right my man, you are on the safest street in the city tonight." And this was after the kettling incident, which raised tensions quite high. We need to reach out to these cops, give them less of a reason to hate us, and bring them to our side. I am not saying there is not brutality or injustice, but Thoreau hit the nail on the head when he said, "There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root." We need to hit the root and the root is Bloomberg and his cronies. For that reason, there is one chant I feel is most appropriate for the situation, and that is "Bloomberg's Army!".

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

I think we can all agree that it would be nice to see the some of the cops lighten up a little bit. If I were you, I wouldn't make it your goal to "bring them our side," but instead to build some positive credit with them. Make an effort to be nice, express your support, and be understanding of their position. While in the end, you may still be arrested for your disobedience - that officer may remember that protesters aren't the enemy.

[-] 3 points by Odin (583) 12 years ago

I understand what you are saying, but the gist of the matter is the police are supporting a corrupt system which has caused many people enormous hardship. The plutocracy that has caused this are going unpunished, so us protestors no longer respect the legitamcay of our government and hence those that protect their interests.

[-] 1 points by hchc (3297) from Tampa, FL 12 years ago

They arent "supporting" it, they are trying to keep all hell from breaking loose. And they will lose eventually, because there is no money in the banks...

[-] 1 points by JDub (218) 12 years ago

here here my wife works for a bank. She does money ordering for it. She is only ever 3 days from running out at any given time, because the banks like to keep only small amounts on hand, in case of robbery. Think about that. 3 days. ONLY. And this is a large branch that handles rather well off individuals and local businesses.

[-] -1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

Please define how the police are supporting a corrupt system.

[-] 2 points by Odin (583) 12 years ago

Let's see. The police are part of the criminal justice system which is ignoring the crimes that the banks, in complicity with our elected officials perpetrated on the American people. Then at the same time they are arresting people for non violent acts of civil disobedience. If they were so interested in keeping all hell from breaking loose, where were they when people lost their kid's tuition money, a good part of their retirement accounts, or perhaps had it wiped out by Wall Street's criminality?

[-] 0 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

First of all, non-violent and legal are not the same thing. The police arrest people for non-violent acts all the time. The 'disobedience' part of 'civil disobedience' means breaking the law. I'm no expert in financial laws, but for the most part i believe the activities that the bankers engage in is not actually against the law. Wrong, for many reasons, but not illegal. The police do not write the laws, that is left to the politicians. And even those parts that are illegal would be investigated by Federal agencies not the police. There is a difference.

[-] 1 points by bpmangan (123) from New York, NY 12 years ago

Yes illegal is different from nonviolent. Yes illegal is different from wrong. Isn't that in itself a pretty big problem?

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

Legal or illegal is not subjective. Either a behavior is against the law, or it isn't. Violent or non-violent is slightly more subjective. I bet we could come to a consensus of what actions are violent and what actions are non-violent.

Right and wrong, unfortunately, is very subjective. Your opinion of right and wrong and my opinion of right and wrong may differ greatly. Some group of people believed that the behaviors that are now illegal were wrong. While you may disagree, it doesn't change the fact that they are illegal.

[-] 1 points by bpmangan (123) from New York, NY 12 years ago

I'm not disagreeing with that. I'm more arguing that if laws are wrong there is no need to follow them. Legal or illegal doesn't make something right or wrong, it makes something punishable. If you believe something is right, its hard to argue you shouldn't do it just because its illegal. That was a core part of Ghandi's philosophy.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

The whole system breaks down when individuals only follow the laws that they agree with. In fact, if you agree that something should be illegal - there is a pretty good chance you wouldn't do it regardless of whether there is a law.

[-] 1 points by bpmangan (123) from New York, NY 12 years ago

If the system breaks down when people ignore laws that force them to stop doing things which they believe are right, is that a problem with the system? Or any system which decides and enforces what is right or wrong for other people to be doing in anyway?

[-] 2 points by barb (835) 12 years ago

I overheard a police officer tell a citizen that the protestors were ex felons and could not vote so that is why they are protesting.

[-] 1 points by BlueRose (1437) 12 years ago

Because the cop was brainwashed to think that people can just vote to address grievances. This cop was sooo wrong, so against OWS.

[-] 1 points by BlueRose (1437) 12 years ago

WHAAAT?

[-] 2 points by TheEvilFuckaire (208) 12 years ago

By the way, I can call you names and shout obscenities all day, that is not an excuse to react with a baton. The officers who do not behave violently to words are normal human beings, that is not something you get a F@cking cookie for

[-] 1 points by bpmangan (123) from New York, NY 12 years ago

I've attended a handful of OWS events and every one that went peacefully and without any unreasonable arrests, or unneccesarry barricades, almost always included a handful of protesters going up to officers and thanking them for staying calm under the pressure and telling them that we believe we are fighting for them too. This isn't a fight against rank and file officers on the whole, its against those who decide that Liberty Park should be cleaned out at 1 in the morning, and those who decide that Bloomberg's street is ineligible for protest, and those who put barricades around Lincoln Center's plaza so that we can't speak directly to those leaving Phillip Glass's Satyagraha about the power of nonviolence. I sat in jail a month ago for 2 days with a hundred other protesters and from my experience anyone complaining about the police is directing it at Bloomberg and those who give the orders while noting that those who enforce them do have the option to ignore them if they believe they are morally wrong.

[-] 1 points by TheEvilFuckaire (208) 12 years ago

Cops are like any other group of people. Most of them due to our corporate controlled education system have no idea what system they are supporting with their labor. Some know but they choose to go along to keep food on the table for their family. I don't think they are bad people just slaves like the rest of us. There are a few who were bullies in school and they just like to hit people. Those few need to be put in a cell with a 400 lbs inmate for a few hours.

[-] 0 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

My point is - no one says "The police acted appropriately today, they came with a job to do and they did it reasonably and professionally." No instead, because the protesters feel they have a right to be places where they don't - the police are ALWAYS wrong (well, at least to this 1%).

[-] 2 points by JDub (218) 12 years ago

Actually they do. You just apparently have selective reading skills/memory. Often it refers to a lack of violence. And its not OWS that is portraing the Cops as Asshats, it is their performance caught on video that does so. There is no reason to show up in riot gear if there is no riot. Period.Doing so implies the intent to use force or a show of force to get their way, which btw is not how a true democracy would function. Its not like protests in Egypt where the police can expect molitovs and rocks, its peaceful. If u don't think so, got look up some of the worldwide protests, They can get quite violent.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

I also love now how every officer is in riot gear. Almost every description of an arrest involves officers in riot gear. I even heard one person describe a mounted officer as being in riot gear. No moron - he's wearing a helmet. Mounted officers always wear helmets for obvious reasons.

So when there are several thousand people in the streets who need to be moved out of the streets, the officers should show up in their street clothes. Then, if a riot breaks out - they should all run back to the locker room to get their riot gear. Doesn't sound like a good plan to me. And if you think that we don't have violent protests in the US - a quick youtube search will clear that up for you as well.

[-] 3 points by 4ows (8) 12 years ago

The fact of the matter is that both sides have their exceptions.

But the point should be in the fact that an unruly protester if he goes out of his way in disobedience or involves himself in misconduct he will eventually be stopped and arrested by the police, however, if a police officer chooses to fall of his rocker, there will be noone to stop him. A protester can only break the rules so much before geting caught (since there is bound to be a police force present nearby). But I don't think there will ever be an arrest attempt made on a police officer "simply" because he chose to mace a few folks for no appearent reason.

So friendlyopposition I ask you, would that ever happen? Where do you draw the line?

[-] 0 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

I'll admit arrests from an inappropriate or excessive use of force case are rare and usually reserved for only the most egregious offenses. This is mainly because the federal laws involving the use of force are very broad. It is common, however, for departments to discipline officers for violating their policies on the use of force - which you have seen some of already. For the most part this information is protected as part of the employees personnel file.

[-] 2 points by 4ows (8) 12 years ago

And that's basically the problem. When you give someone a certain amount of power it's expected of the person to act accordingly. Sure a police officer can go and act as one should, but you can see the problem if someone without any societal regard gets that kind of power. My point is that officers have a certain amount of power they can abuse while protesters have nothing.

But you're right about being angry with the way things are presented. Welcome to my club. The two things I hate the most - misinformation and generalization. You can even see it just by looking at some of the comments (eg. all policemen wear riot gear, all arrests are brutal ...). Media was always a propaganda force, if you've lived through a war you know that perfectly well. And so that's what we have here (both sides get their fair share of misrepresentation). Because let's face it - there is no way for you to know what goes on on the other side of the world (or simply out of your line of sight) without someone there telling you about it. And the media do tell you about it ... and they paint a damn poor picture too. There are always exceptions no matter how much the media forces a black and white picture on you.

So ... as more of police officers stand in solidarity with OWS, the number of those left behind who can form their own judgement diminishes, likewise does public opinion of them. And it's going to get worse before it gets better, but I would like for people to understand that it isn't all black and white like you're lead to believe and that it's not that easy to fight the authority when it's been shoved down your throat so deep. I'm not justifying all, I'm just telling people not to generalize.

[-] 1 points by friendlyopposition (574) 12 years ago

Agreed. Wholeheartedly.

[-] 0 points by Perspective (-243) 12 years ago

You need to look harder,OWS has a wonderful track record of violence. BTW OWS has thrown at police,rocks,bottles,paint,steel rebar,road flares,and a few other things. So much for your peaceful movement. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rUxqqY-YWk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCCb5HcJ018

Look around it's easy to find OWS violence.

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[-] 3 points by Shazam2814 (3) 12 years ago

I feel like almost no one posting comments on this page even listened to the words expressed by Mr. Chaplin. It’s very sad when something dedicated to such beautiful, inspiring words is hijacked for petty personal attacks and shameless bickering. “The airplane and the radio [the internet?] have brought us closer together. The very nature of these inventions cries out for the goodness in men; cries out for universal brotherhood; for the unity of us all.” “The kingdom of God is within man, not one man nor a group of men, but in all men!” This is less about religion and technology and more about creating a better world for all humanity. Regardless of politics, these are powerful words, and we are ignoring them.

[-] 3 points by Revolutionist96 (3) 12 years ago

Power to the people

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[-] 2 points by struggleforfreedom80 (6584) 12 years ago

Love that speech:)

Here´s another good speech for you all to enjoy:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YftlB3AxBws

solidarity from Norway

struggleforfreedom

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Speech taken from the Great Dictator - 1940 - 73 years ago.

Funny ( and also sad ) how it still applies is apropos to this very point in time.

73 years - time and long past time for society/civilization/humanity to experience growth in maturity/spirit.

Good Food 4 Thought.

Re-Tweeted

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

In Compliment Some Nights

LYRICS :

Some nights, I stay up cashing in my bad luck Some nights, I call it a draw Some nights, I wish that my lips could build a castle Some nights, I wish they'd just fall off

But I still wake up, I still see your ghost Oh Lord, I'm still not sure what I stand for oh What do I stand for? What do I stand for? Most nights, I don't know anymore... oh woah, oh woah, oh woah oh oh oh woah, oh woah, oh woah oh oh

This is it, boys, this is war - what are we waiting for? Why don't we break the rules already? I was never one to believe the hype - save that for the black and white I try twice as hard and I'm half as liked, but here they come again to jack my style

And that's alright; I found a martyr in my bed tonight She stops my bones from wondering just who I am, who I am, who I am Oh, who am I? Oh, who am I? mmm... mmm...

Well, some nights, I wish that this all would end Cause I could use some friends for a change And some nights, I'm scared you'll forget me again Some nights, I always win, I always win...

But I still wake up, I still see your ghost Oh Lord, I'm still not sure what I stand for, oh What do I stand for? What do I stand for? Most nights, I don't know... (come on)

So this is it? I sold my soul for this? Washed my hands of that for this? I miss my mom and dad for this?

No. When I see stars, when I see, when I see stars, that's all they are When I hear songs, they sound like this one, so come on Oh, come on. Oh, come on, OH COME ON!

Well, this is it guys, that is all - five minutes in and I'm bored again Ten years of this, I'm not sure if anybody understands This one is not for the folks at home; Sorry to leave, mom, I had to go Who the fuck wants to die alone all dried up in the desert sun?

My heart is breaking for my sister and the con that she call "love" But when I look into my nephew's eyes... Man, you wouldn't believe the most amazing things that can come from... Some terrible nights...ahhh...

oh woah, oh woah, oh woah, oh oh oh woah, oh woah, oh woah, oh oh

The other night, you wouldn't believe the dream I just had about you and me I called you up, but we'd both agree It's for the best you didn't listen It's for the best we get our distance... oh... It's for the best you didn't listen It's for the best we get our distance... oh...

[-] 1 points by daylightsavage (1) from Far Rockaway, NY 11 years ago

I discovered these beutifull and brillliant through vinyl scratches soothing dubstep happy valentine day song anyone seeing this should go check this song and wait fer about 5:20 out of about 16 mins.... and listen to this brilliance in a beutifully soothing song. Thankk you

[-] 1 points by inclusionman (7064) 11 years ago

"Eliminate national barriers,.....Unite,.....The world has plenty for all, share it" Truly inspiring words. Probably 70 years old. End war, feed the hungry,

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

Let me start by saying the capitalist society is a model of natural order of life. Life is not fair in nature. Greed is a trait built in to EVERY single species on the face of the earth. Nature doesnt get things wrong. For us to second guess Nature is to say we are Gods. Nature was designed/evolved using one principal: Survival of the fittest. In order to further our species we need not protect the weakest least capable of our species. Instead let them perish via there own consequencial genetic make up i.e laziness, poverty, homelessness, addictive tendancies. In all other species the weakest animals are the targets of predators and nature allows that animal to be killed so that only the strongest survive and populate. Why are we going to such great lengths to protect those who are too weak to protect themselves? Looking at that question with a COMPLETELY open mind you realize by doing that we are slowly but surely creating a weaker, more sickly, lazy society. By allowing those of us who wake up every morning and bust ass from dusk till dawn to do whatever it takes to make sure his/her family is taken care to prosper as nature designed it we are securing our future as a species to be a very good one. I live a pretty simple life. I have a wife and two small children. I live in a home that I rent. I go to work every day. I pay taxes. I guess you could lable me as greedy because I take advantage of every opportunity to make my life better even if that means that some one else does without. Again life is not fair and survival of the fittest rules. If someone is not smart enough or bold enough or talented enough to take what they need and at the same time protect the environment around them than how would it be beneficial having those people populate the world? I hope youve read this with an open mind because its frank and true if you really think about it. zsthompson1@aol.com

[-] 1 points by DonnieL (1) from Charleston, SC 12 years ago

This might seriously be the best speech I've ever heard - even if it was from a film. We should be reminded of the ideals Chaplin expresses - as should our elected representatives.

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[-] 1 points by ebri (419) 12 years ago

I also thank you. We must keep the debate civil.

[-] 1 points by TheMinerva82 (2) 12 years ago

I think the level of passionate abuse between some of you 'conversationalists' actually represents the depth and severity of the social and welfare problems that we all face(except, it would seem, the current 1%) It's a tried and tested tactic since time immemorial to 'divide and conquer' the minions so that they cannot unite in the face of oppression, intimidation or inequalities.

Many seek refuse in defending something they've had to survive with only because they fear the 'boss' or can't face the humiliation of admitting they've been had all this time(many would rather kill or be killed first, madness, eh? Then we have the other section of suppressed who have already been and still are the victims, living the deprivation and depression. So they both fight each other. Cos they can't see or identify the real targets.

We have a tendency and track-record in our 'advanced' culture to down grade those worse off than others as 'low-lifes' or 'sub-class' humans. It comes out in the form of some of the street-level descriptions one or two of our friends here have expressed. Never once considering the fact that these 'blights on society' are a consequence of the social/welfare/economic/education leadership we endure, not always just of their own making! If you were with no home or impoverished on welfare and/or trying to survive the pain and indignity on drugs or alcohol, on a limited income, you'd probably smell a bit too!!But would you accept somebody else summing up your lot by saying you're just scum, for example?

I hope we find a way of uniting those two factions cos it's the only way any fair or realistic change will happen. Or else the copper who pepper sprayed you last week may be the one being pepper-sprayed when it's his turn to suffer at the hands of the powerful and greedy. So, please keep the passion, but we must re-channel that passion into helping all of us have happier and more integrated lives.Police and soldiers are people to, like the rest of us, who will and do need our help amongst all our protestations.

We are all brothers, sons, sisters, mums and dads who face exactly the same dangers from exactly the same areas.

But do we have it in us? There's been 'revolution' after 'revolution' for bloody generations and centuries now. And here we all are today more disjointed and polar than ever. Except that now more die, more often and more clinically than ever before in history. What difference, to the good, have any of them done?So what we are talking about here is of unprecedented political proportions.

Perhaps this is how it will end, with only our ability to isolate and insult/abuse each other at will to represent the 'dying horse kicks harder' syndrome mentioned by some one earlier. I continue to work my hardest on an individual level to keep people fighting on and not lose hope and becoming part of a rabble and it ain't too easy, is it?

[-] 1 points by amanofnoimportance (82) from Orlando, FL 12 years ago

This speech keeps me, potentially others, alive day after day.

The fighting in this comment panel:

Do you think it will lead to anything productive? Those inflammatory little letters in 10 point, in a server far away?

If only science and technology could harness the energy in internet bickering, it could be transformed into something productive.

Imagine that. No more energy crisis. Everyone's coming home!

Until then, what end does it serve?

[-] 1 points by TheEqualizer (42) 12 years ago

I think the wise thing to do if it is absolutely inevitable that your are going to have your home taken away from you is to completely destroy it while it still belongs to you. You cannot get into trouble for destroying your own home. Completely destroy the house from the ground up the day before they come to remove you. Then all the bank gets back is a worthless pile of junk.

[-] 1 points by TheEqualizer (42) 12 years ago

I think the wise thing to do if it is absolutely inevitable that your are going to have your home taken away from you is to completely destroy it while it still belongs to you. You cannot get into trouble for destroying your own home. Completely destroy the house from the ground up the day before they come to remove you. Then all the bank gets back is a worthless pile of junk.

[-] 1 points by OWSMusic (57) 12 years ago

Merry Christmas to the banksters on Wall Street... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FM3KR9dEOk

[-] 1 points by assasin (25) 12 years ago

thats inspiring, all i can say

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

this moving speech holds as much relevance to Chaplin's time as it does to this very day. and it's message touches us the same way as it did to our parents and grand-parents. We the people NEED to take a stand and fight for their rights because our rights, constitution, the American way of life as we know it is about to change. The period of which using diplomacy to change things is long-gone. There is going to be blood-shed the only difference is if we want to give up our freedom for the sake of security. eventually this fight is going to make its way to all of our door-steps and we have to make a choice to stay silent or stand up and fight against tyranny just as our founding fathers have over 300 years ago. what choice will you make?

[-] 1 points by TheMinerva82 (2) 12 years ago

Hi freedomfightersnow. Great post fella, but what was the tyranny of 300 years ago of which you speak? Is it the War of Independence. I'm from N Ireland so my dates arent instinctive. But I know all about tyranny and how it plays out on the streets!! Another thing I noticed was that the founders of the USA/North America didnt hang about squashing any fight against the tyranny they were subjecting the natives to?I know I may be nit-picking here and the US is not the only example of historical tyranny over native races or otherwise.The perpetrators identity is pretty comparable though, pick a country. My point is that while we are in this righteous mind set (remember 'Manifest Destiny'?) then the circle keeps playing the same old record, only the names have changed, then we all remain in danger. Stand by ALL our human colleagues to defeat tyranny. PLEASE.

[-] 1 points by Dreski (10) 12 years ago

America Wake Up From Your Deep Sleep First Things First Occupy Your Hearts Occupy Your Families Occupy Your Rights We The People Will Re-Occupy Congress Human Interest Before Special Interest God Bless America

[-] 1 points by Dreski (10) 12 years ago

Occupy your Hearts and Your Families

[-] 1 points by Bodz010 (5) from Harrisburg, PA 12 years ago

I've posted this video 400+ times on different facebook pages

[-] 1 points by Dreski (10) 12 years ago

Human Interest Before Special Interest

[-] 1 points by WEPartyMentor (20) 12 years ago

What's the 2012 Global Shift in Consciousness all about?

WE Party Peace Ambassadors, Acts of Kindness, A United World Social Network, Global Networks of Collaboration, Pass It Forward Movement, WE Consciousness, Human Rights, Green Communities, Ecology, Animal Concerns, Occupy Global, Peace and Nonviolence, Online Community Service, Fundraising For A Better World, Global Interdependent Community, Ethical economic systems, The Shift, Billion Hugs, Global Happiness, Billionaire Summit, World Peace One, We The World, Social Services, L.O.V.E. It Forward, WE Party, Collective Healing, End Global Poverty, Shift From I to WE, Stop Bullying, Online Mentoring, Spiritual Awakening, Social Change, Paradigm Shift, Unconditional Love, 6 Pillars of Character, WE Campaign.

A Simple Shift in Consciousness From I to WE "WE can make a difference" - "Yes WE can" - United WE stand" - "WE can be the change WE wish to see in the world" - "In God WE trust" - "WE the people" - "WE are the world" - "WE are family" - "WE are one"

http://www.weoccupyglobalsummit.info

[-] 1 points by Bighead1883 (285) 12 years ago

An excellent piece of nostalgia that shines till now.The largest protest will come at election time.The power of the 99% has to be shown on election day.Maintain the rage.Demand change.To those who believe in the power of the people make sure that the Republican Party is completely wiped out.

[-] 1 points by huevosrancheros (21) 12 years ago

The original dictator that Chaplin was talking about was of course Hitler, the leader of a fascist movement bent on destroying democracy and socialism. If the video was posted in reference to Kim, the North Korean leader, it does not apply. Why is Kim a "greater" dictator than Obama, who stands atop the world pyramid of greed?

[-] 1 points by PatrickOxOethafulm (35) 12 years ago

this and the song "bombs (the ron paul song)" by Golden state had me crying

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

This is a beautiful speech. Truly.

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

I am not an occupier because I am fortunate enough to have a job as a hard working nurse. I support your revolt. But it seems like there are too many issues you guys are protesting against. There is so much wrong done to workers and poor people, it's hard to choose issues, but I think the only way to create change is to choose one issue and protest against it until u make that change then u move on to the next problem. I say go to wall street and Washington and make congress make it illegal for companies like Citigroup and bank of America to take out life insurance on their workers! If u are a young woman that dies while working for one of these Companies, the company will make millions of your death. It is not fair. They have a vested interest on a young woman's death. I say fight this issue until u force congress to vote on the bill to eradicate this evil practice. Once that is accomplished move on to another issue and so forth! Please help America change in an organized respectful goal oriented manner.

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

http://suzannahbtroy.blogspot.com/2011/12/nypd-and-community-long-for-large-turn.html The NYPD put out a ton of police barriers like a pray for OWS by St. Vincent’s. The NYPD wants a hospital in the W. Village as much as we do.

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

what comes from the heart reaches the heart. dearly beloved charlie chaplin blacklisted by the fascists! it is not greed that is the problem! it is the fascist elite, rothschilds, royal family, the queen of england is the whore of babylon of revelations, that use our greed to control the planet. for example the AOPD are overpaid to brutalise us with their zipties and batons. they use the greed of the bankers to run the wall street casino for them. they do not risk their money. their money is in land, our land. THIS LAND IS OUR LAND. we must occupy and take back the land. it is not just greed it is the whole system that brutalises us. they brutalise us with the crucifixion "religion", the head of the catholics being a german fascist pope, the head of the anglicans being the german fascist queen. they brutalise us with stop and frisk and steal our weed when we know it is good and harmless and not antisocial. the end of cannabis prohibition is the RAPTURE. they brutalise us with talk of jobs and housing while we can see the housing they are building in the FEMA concentration camps with slave labour jobs at 25c ph!!! they brutalise us with a violent religion, violent movies, violent video games and violent cartoons for the kids! they brutalise us with dead food. they pretend they're eating dead jesus in their communion. they have divided us up against one another, isolated us from our community. we must build up our community and drive out the propaganda, the evil concepts from the past. a barbaric medieval past ruled by the fascist freemason elite behind the 911 INSIDE JOB the subprime fraud INSIDE JOB the illegal DHS organised police brutality. do not underestimate the enemy!!!!!!!!!!!!

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

UNITE! indeed, in solidarity; especially during this holiday season of peace.

[-] 1 points by Hamlet2086 (33) 12 years ago

"The price of freedom is eternal vigilance." - Thos. Jefferson. (Or, as the great seer Berra once said, intending for Mr. Kravitz to pick up on it, "It ain't over, till it's over.") Therefore, let us add verses onto that old song of Mr. Zimmerman. His truth is marching on.

May you occupy the heavens May you write across the sky May you speak with one another So that truth may never die. May you leave this planet better For these folks you’ve walked among. May you stay forever young

When you search for inspirations May your heart be resolute. May you lead the selfish nations Not to plunder and pollute. May you help folks find a foothold On the mountain they have clung. May you stay forever young.

May you not neglect to mention Or to show how much you care. May you focus world attention On such things as need repair. May you occupy tomorrow When the evening’s song is sung, And may you stay forever young.

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

On Bloomberg and his mini-me Christine Quinn wannabe emperors of NYC http://youtu.be/OKP4457o2Oo and watch my interview with Kevin Keating OWS Constitution group on his film Giuliani Time http://youtu.be/fhSzp5Z8vVU

[-] 1 points by dreamingOAR (6) from Hooksett, NH 12 years ago

posted this video about a month ago in one of the forums. glad to see it's getting the recognition it deserves. His words are true, everyone just needs to keep holding on.

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

I think TheEvilFuckaire makes good points. I do believe that many police have mixed feelings when they are asked to go out in overwhlming numbers, armed and in full riot gear to face overwhelmingly peaceful assembles. They are human and can sense it is an overreaction meant mainly to intimidate. Its interesting that in Madison Wisconsin over the past year the police took a far less provocative posture in policing large groups of tens of thousands of protestors and encountered very few problems. Violence does beget violence. Also, I think comparisons between OWS and Tea Party are not always valid. I think one is seeking large scale systemic changes the other is not. Reaction to them by the state would tend to be quite different. I also think MrStrdent should take a few deep breathes and put the hatred aside. Maybe even read a history book about past protestors like the Boston Tea Party,the American Civil Rights Movement, Mohandes Gandhi or Jesus Chist. They all found it necessary to disobey and "break the law" to accomplish great things. Would he say "Hey Jesus stop preaching that nonsense its against the law. Don't make me have to get the pepper spray". Its dissent, its protest, its good, its necessary, its gotten people talking. it is what a democracy needs

[-] 1 points by occupy2 (2) 12 years ago

Fantastic video.

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

Due to traumatic harassment by Deutsche Bank security who told I would have to leave 60 Wall Street because of my signs I connected with Kevin Keating of OWS Constitution Group who also tangled with DB’s hired military. Kevin Keating made the powerful film “Guiliani Time” and Keating interview on what happened 60 Wall Street is referenced in Norman Siegel’s letter on behalf of OWS!
http://youtu.be/IZMPsT-8rS8 Here is my first interview -- posted because it is short. He did the cinematography on “Harlan County, USA” and I ask him how this film speaks to Occupy Wall Street. Kevin Keating compares OWS Zuccotti to Harlan County USA. Watch!

Editing Guiliani Time Bloomberg Interview and I have a bit on Kerik Murdoch some folks may find interesting. He also talks about stop and frisks so stay tuned.

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

very strong powerful words on how we are slowly slipping away from our human side and turn more into a barrier of progress.

[-] 1 points by yarichin (269) 12 years ago

I have been saying consistently that national borders are simply a way to divide labor. The 1% are global. They move factories between nations as easily as we move mail between nations. People are stopped from moving and asked for proof of permission from the 1% to move. Your nation means SH!T to them, They will move factories here when you are the cheapest and move them over there when you are not. 2nd amendment is insurance for all other rights. Kill the slave masters.

[-] 1 points by CarlTilchenSingerSongwriter (3) from Rye, NY 12 years ago

Would you like to view my song OCCUPY WALL STREET at http://www.youtube.com/user/ctilchen What's your opinion? Carl Tilchen Singer/Songwriter

[-] 1 points by Toynbee (656) from Savannah, GA 12 years ago

Always enjoy that clip.

[-] 1 points by zootsuit (34) 12 years ago

iframe fail.

[-] 0 points by Zealwriter (5) 12 years ago

NO GOVERNMENT PROGRAM IS COMING TO SAVE US! It's time to take ownership of one's own life. This is still the land of opportunity. People sit around puzzled when immigrants come to this country and prosper. There is no magic potion and its not simply tax breaks, it has more to do with mindset. For those that tune their eyes it is obvious the opportunity that we're all surrounded by-perception is everything. There are mechanisms in place where people combine their resources and as they duplicate this process they create WEALTH! These are things that Dems and Repubs lightly touch on, if at all, but it's a proven process for helping people become Financially FREE while in my company people are getting wealthy and healthy at the same time. DON'T WAIT UNTIL YOU NEED YOUR WELL BEFORE YOU START TO DIG! Today your job is secure and tomorrow you could get a pink slip but if you build supplemental residual income now it won't matter what your boss does--invest 3-5yrs doing what others won't do and then you'll be positioned to do what they can't do for the rest of your life. Whiners and handout seekers need not bother----- JOIN HERE: http://ceburns.mymonavie.com

Note:This company made a billion dollars faster than Google in just 3 yrs. The company has been around since 2005 and has the strongest surge of growth in its segment of Health and Wellness. Scientifically validated products, all natural and non-duplicatable. CEO recieved Ernst & Young prestigious award two years in a row. Currently in over 20 countries. Debuted in inc500 magazine in 2009 at number 18 (as opposed to Microsoft's debut in 1984 @ #80). Featured on CBS The Doctors, Rachel Ray, The Today Show w/ Kathy Lee, etc.

Simply complain on blogs like this one and be accused of loitering rather than occupying or Join a growing movement and return here to lead others to water!

Footnote: I've sent this to Occupy Amsterdam, Boston, Austin, Seattle, College, Wall Street, Italy,etc. With no response even after offering a webinar to show how this would be HIGHLY profitable for those presented to and create wealth that a conventional job is not designed to do. A residual income opportunity would clear the Corporate Stables of the Cattle that await slaughter through out sourcing and allow ppl to spend more time with their families while their wealth builds 24hrs a day everyday. If you agree with this tactic Please Contact your local "Occupy movement" or Occupy Colleges @(323)642-8102 and tell them to use their energies efficaciously rather than redundantly and ask them to contact Charles Burns...they have my number :)

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[-] 0 points by rebel9999 (24) 12 years ago

In America the police are not our enemy. In foreign countries that may not be so. In America the super rich and the Republicans are our enemies. In America we are in the mist of an ecnomic revolution that was started back in 1980 with Ronald Reagan and still goes on to this day. In America we can fight the enemy with our vote. Or we can legally shut down our enemies until they do what it is that we want them to do. Read my web page at www.mybetteramericaplan.com to see on my Current Events section how we can make this revolution a success instead of just a sit-in.

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

Failed movement looks like you are all running out of ideas until you completely occupy congress. I don't care.

[-] 0 points by 11jamespevanhoe (3) 12 years ago

occupy wall street the cause is a real save our country save the future for our children and young adults

This letter is to John Cruz and the rest of You need to read his book & this letter it may save your life!

John lived this, it is a TRUE STORY "READ IT OVER THE HOLIDAYS" Amazon.com: World Banking World Fraud eBook: John Cruz: Kindle ... www.amazon.com › ... › Industries & Professions › Banks & Banking

Amazon.com: World Banking World Fraud eBook: John Cruz: Kindle Store. ...

to the American dream to a corporate nightmare of fraud and money laundering. ... of criminal corruption that is killing millions of Americans on many levels, OUR neighborhoods, jobs, the inability for higher education, prison time of millions of young Americans and needless Bush wars. The Bush Family and their criminal buddies are directing the Terror on to Americans and the Globe. Profiting from deliberately created Chaos. Bush buddies that include the Owners of HSBC bank and Reverend Sun Myung Moon. These institutions or individuals disguised as right wing capitalists, saving he world from left wing governments, but are nothing more than criminals profiting from Drug Money Laundering, their created Wars and Financial Terrorism, collapsing the USA economy every 7 to 10 yrs like clock work, profiting before it over inflate value created by Wall Street fraud and from the collapse by betting on the coming collapse, shorting the market. Goldman-Sachs, their top executives, directors and traders criminally corrupt as documented by former Goldman executive Nomi Prins and Matt Taibbi writer for the Rollingstone Magazine and myself James P. Evanhoe since the collapse of the Tech Boom by Goldman-Sachs,and their Board of Directors in March of 2000, included on the Board, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Gates and Microsoft profiting by the billions from the collapse and the election of GW Bush. Intel was represented on the Board as well, etc. I watched this take place from the Headquarters of Merrill Lynch, San Diego with Marcus Healey.

We are sending out information calling on The Next President, which we are working for Chris Swecker to become President or US Attorney General, to Charge, Convict and put to Death or long term Prison Sentences, and to confiscate all personal and business interests, foundations, and partnerships, from those involved in Cartel Money Laundering-HSBC the Bank's Owners, Directors, & Managers at HSBC, Wacovia, and Government Leaders associated with the operations to include George Bush Sr. and Bush Jr.

This is absolutely Class Warfare. By Laundering Cartel Drug Money that guarantees the Cartels stay in business, that insures drugs in every Western Country, that insures deaths by the thousands from drug related causes, gang violence, 100,000's of individuals mostly young adults, put in Prisons, prisons controlled by George Bush buddies through Privately ran Prisons, all costing communities and the US Government $100's of Billions of Taxpayer Dollars annually and destroying millions of lives Globally. This includes the 5,000 people killed by Bush Sr., when he illegally invaded Panama, and the $500million in damages it caused. Noriega was taken to the USA/Florida, then release to the French and then released back to Panama??? WHO does that?? Having known individuals in the Panamanian Banks Industry, all confirm Drug Cartels absolutely launder billions through those banks, HSBC and their sub branches using other names Globally.
WHY go after Noriega, Noriega was telling the World's press about Bush Sr's direct involvement with Drug Cartels. The 5,000 that were killed by Bush has been documented by Panamanian Human Rights Groups. Nothing ever changed in Panama after Noriega was taken...NOTHING. Bush and the Cartels work together now that everyone is in line. That's why Pablo Emilio Escobar was taken out and replaced. The drugs have never stopped coming out of Colombia,
Follow the Money !! it leads directly to the Bush Family and their buddies Social Terrorists all of them.

Bush profiting from Money Laundering, into certain banks where they take a cut, and have available cash for there perverted projects globally or purchases of land tracks, planes, homes or just stockpile. This group now has to find away to keep control, or take control, in order to keep the money. Remember ALL Texas Presidents LBJ, BUSH SR & JR are losers. The following listing that can be Googled is not what I wrote, but it tells exactly what has taken me almost 30 yrs to piece together having followed almost every aspect, the criminal aspects, of

the Bush Family, since Sr. was CIA Director and started working with Noriega, through Bush's direct involvement in illegally throwing Alex Spanos' ex son in-law out of the Country, for Alex Spanos. Spanos a big contributor to the Bush Family campaigns. Spanos' son in-law a Greek legally owned at the time of his divorce from one of Alex's daughters as much as 25% = to $250million of the Spanos Construction business, valued at $1billion, Stockton, California, were my Father Carl R. Evanhoe lived and was former (Republican) Mayor of Stockton. My Father winning Mayor for his stance on clean out Public Corruption, corruption such exists now in Jackson, Wyoming. Father was Chief Fundraiser for Central California for Republican Governor Earl Warren, who was appointed to Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court and a Family Friend for more than 30 years. My older Brother Michael P. Evanhoe (Democrat) Director of the California Department of Transportation, and Chief Fundraiser for California Governor (D) Jerry Brown and my Uncle Robert Augenthaler, Vice President, Worldwide Production, Standard Oil of California.

What John Cruz says in his Book "World Banking World Fraud" and those that put the following together Privatized Prisons and the Capitalist Drug Syndicate, show when combined with the Bush Family needless Wars, one "Let to Happen" National debt spending and economic collapse 1988-92, the Other "Created" through outright "Lies of WMD's, YellowCake, Mobile Chemical Trucks", National debt spending and economic collapse 2008-on going "Like Father Like Son", which through those wars profits were gained by oil companies each time once the wars started. Oil Prices in the Gulf War and the Iraq War quadrupled, and so did defense spending which made Halliburton & Dick Cheney and their buddies and companies like the Bechtel's of San Francisco billions, Level 3 Communications billions. I know both families and have met the Bechtels at the University of the Pacific, Stockton, California where my Father was a huge supporter in the 1950's & 60's and Walter Scott Jr of Level 3 in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. I have followed both corporations, Bechtel for more than 30 years. The Bush Family, Dick Cheney and the Carlyle Group (not all of its members but many) Goldman-Sachs in review and watching them have made huge fortunes from Class Warfare, needless wars, money laundering, drug cartels, defense spending, national debt spending, and 3 times over the last 30 years by collapsing the US and Global Economy.
Our documentary has started production and depicts all of this and will be released just before the November Election 2012.

It supports Our call to have those creating Class Warfare charged, convicted and put to death, or imprisoned and their private and business wealthy, foundations and partnership in the U.S. and Globally confiscated. This will been done!

It is time to demand the Death Penalty for George Bush Sr., HSBC Directors & Owners, Goldman-Sachs Executives, those who are directly responsible for Class Warfare through Drugs, 3 needless Wars, and 3 Financial Collapses. Destroyed millions of lives and billions of dollars in savings, homes, jobs and taxpayer revenues!

It is of my opinion all of them need to be Charged for Financial Terrorism and Social Terrorism, they are outright Traitors to 99% of Americans, they are the real terrorists!

Stop completely FINANCIAL & SOCIAL TERRORISM - GLOBAL CLASS WARFARE Support the Election of Chris Swecker as President Chris the Former Assistant Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and a Champion in the cause to Convict Corrupt Publicly Elected Officials-Criminals and their Criminal Cronies.

James P. Evanhoe "FELLOW THE MONEY" it leads to the criminals! December 20th, 2011 the Bush Family and their Cronies

There is a Great Year Ahead 2012 for 99% !

Privatized Prisons and the Capitalist Drug Syndicate www.hermes-press.com/prisons_drugs.htm What's the connection between privatized prisons and the global drug syndicate? ... To maintain profits, corporate-owned prisons need a steady flow of inmates. ... was brought to its present height of worker destruction by George H. W. Bush ...

[-] 0 points by Idle (18) 12 years ago

This movement will not prevail until the demand will be clear. It is hard, for Americans especially, to face the truth that the source of that misery is one word CAPITALISM. This social system is wrong, is no more suitable for the ages. The consumerist-capitalism is devouring the entire humanity. Demand democracy and banish capitalism. That is a meaningful and truth fight. Let us unite and ask capitalist class to step down, to surrender their properties, their power, to the people. There is no alternative to socialism and communism. MAKE CAPITALISM HISTORY!

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

We need to say it: the 1% is the capitalist class. They have to disappear. NO MORE CAPITALISM! This system, and the capitalist class is the enemy.

[-] 0 points by openspace (51) from Queens, NY 12 years ago

I received a link to a video of extreme police brutality in Egypt. I am passing it on even though it is extremely difficult to watch (I think some people are actually killed as you watch) because we need to stop this before it happens here. There is nothing to keep it from happening here but the unity and solidarity of the 99% against the 1%. http://youtu.be/4iboFV-yeTE

[-] 0 points by fabianmockian (225) 12 years ago

How is it that writers and artisans can get it so right, while our politicians and leaders can't. Why do the words of inspiration that come from these leaders never seem to be fulfilled in their actions?

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[-] 0 points by mserfas (652) from Ashland, PA 12 years ago

This inspiring speech is indeed appropriate for the passing of Kim Jong Il. It is better to see a society recovering its health reject a dictator than merely wait, passively, for his reign to end; nonetheless, for the sake of the victims liberation is welcome even if accidental.

Nonetheless, these words should also remind us of the substantial institutional and ideological obstacles to political progress in our own country. Merely posting this fine speech would be called by some a "copyright violation", by others "fair use", and a bill called SOPA, or companions offered by a powerful movie and music lobby, threaten more and more to crack down on and criminalize - indeed, make felonies - such references, or even mentions of where outside the U.S. such speeches are available. It is important to speak out against this at places like http://www.stopamericancensorship.org and http://act.demandprogress.org/sign/thank_clinton/ and https://www.eff.org/action .

But merely speaking out in favor of the status quo is not enough. We should recognize that - as clearly acknowledged with such bills - the copyright system is not compatible with the First Amendment and the Fourth Amendment. If we continue to rely on copyright law to compensate authors, one of two things can happen. Either we will have a society where every byte of every communication you make is searched by hostile corporations and government agencies looking to make sure you aren't transferring forbidden knowledge (like singing Happy Birthday at a party or dancing to a popular song on video). Or we will have a society where musicians and movie makers don't get paid and have to curtail their productions.

So far the first option has been several laps ahead on the course; but that is a society where the wealthy are the only ones entitled to quote a speech like the one above, only for their own purposes and ends. It is a society largely banned from access to its own history and culture, except through the distorting lens of programs broadcast by the grace of corporate sponsors.

I call for a third alternative. I say we can come up with a system whereby people pay a tax proportional to income tax, to a list of independent funding organizations for the arts, chosen by each individual. That way we can ensure that authors receive full royalties by a market mechanism, but everyone has the right to read and watch whatever they want with no more copyright. We dispense with middlemen and marketing and Digital Rights Management and adopt a system akin to what is used for funding scientific research. And everyone is free to quote Charlie Chaplin wherever and whenever and however they please. Look up, Hannah. Look up!

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[-] 0 points by ahmet (5) from Istanbul, Istanbul 12 years ago

equalistic united humanity order 2011-2015 ... on progress.. it is coming to all earth...

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

Earlier comment I told you I met film maker OWS Constitution group because our mutual hellish experience 60 Wall St. courtesy of Deutsche Bank. Here is the 2nd interview link I am posting.... Interview with Kevin Keating on Giuliani Time Bloomberg Time -- topics we hit on

FDNY radios did not work -- press dept FDNY wrote me Ms. Troy the radios worked.

Stop and Frisk than and now....

Bernie Kerik Murdoch Hacking Scandal NYC? Kerik Murdoch almost at end of YouTube and I had to edit down to under 10 minutes.

[-] 0 points by BarbGantt99 (14) from Mexican Hat, UT 12 years ago

update for Santa99:

SANTA ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS
3 things: 3 things for Occupy Wall Street and all of U.S. 99%. 1. This is what I have looking for a very long time. I would like to see occupy wall street embrace this self sustaining and self sufficient movement. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/19/wiki-diy-civilization_n_1157895.html http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/19/wiki-diy-civilization_n_1157895.html?1324310724 http://opensourceecology.org/

We can lead self-sustaining lives without sacrificing our standard of living "It's not reinventing the wheel; it's open-sourcing the wheel." Marcin Jakubowski is open-sourcing a set of blueprints for 50 farming tools that can be built cheaply from scratch. Call it a "civilization starter kit."

The Global Village Construction Set (GVCS) is a modular, DIY, low-cost, high-performance platform that allows for the easy fabrication of the 50 different Industrial Machines that it takes to build a small, sustainable civilization with modern comforts. the 50 machines that it takes to build civilization from scratch and scrap. Marcin Jakubowski: Open-Sourced Blueprints For Civilization 2. THE ROOT OF ALL OUR PROBLEMS: getmoneyout.com petitions for a 28th Amendment; Stop Corporatism Amendment; to overturn Buckley v. Valeo and eliminate all private finance from the electoral process and lobby. See: Republic Lost written by Harvard law professor Lawrence Lessig. http://republic.lessig.org/ 3. Criminal Prosecution of Wall Street for their ponzi voodoo weapons of mass destruction and crimes against humanity and crimes against national security.

[-] 0 points by BarbGantt99 (14) from Mexican Hat, UT 12 years ago

SANTA ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS 2 things for Occupy Wall Street all of U.S. 99% 1. THE ROOT OF ALL OUR PROBLEMS: and getmoneyout.com petitions for a 28th Amendment; Stop Corporatism Amendment; to overturn Buckley v. Valeo and eliminate all private finance from the electoral process and lobby. See: Republic Lost written by Harvard law professor Lawrence Lessig.

2. Criminally Prosecution of Wall Street for their ponzi voodoo weapons of mass destruction and crimes against humanity and crimes against national security

[-] 0 points by JPB950 (2254) 12 years ago

A beautiful speech! It would be so easy to make the sentiment a reality. We have a system of governing that would work so well if the individuals within it simply became informed. We vote with blind ignorance for a pretty face or calm, deep, soothing voice. It's so easy to stay ignorant and let someone scare us into vote against things.

There will never be any positive change as long as people are content to let someone else do their thinking for them. We all know life long politicians become corrupt, yet we vote them in time and time again. We accept the corruption. It's our fault, not the banks or corporations, they've stepped in because we , as a people, surrendered the responsibility a long time ago.

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

very strong speech. awesome ... i had little wet badges of honor trickling down my face.

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[-] 0 points by Algee (182) 12 years ago

This man saw the truth, spoke the truth, shaped the truth.

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[-] 0 points by ronjj (-241) 12 years ago

Thank you for those beautiful words. I have seen almost all of the terms for various people groups on here but for the life of me I cannot remember what people that post this kind of "beautiful stuff" are called. Can you help me out with that one???

[-] 0 points by musashiz (16) 12 years ago

How can you ask a question of something you haven't read? This isn't 'beautiful stuff' btw

[-] 0 points by ronjj (-241) 12 years ago

musashiz

I read every word of your post and it is "beautiful stuff" - get over it ,it ain't Zane Grey a writer that could paint a real picture if you have ever been to the Mogollon Rim Country would could see that actual country that he painted a picture of.

Your stuff was painted in this country during the latter part of the 1800's and early 1900's and is sold as antiques today. Been dealing in the stuff for 45 years - I know "beautiful stuff" when I see it.

[-] -1 points by economicallydiscardedcitizen (761) 12 years ago

Thank you for putting this on the front page of OWS. Here is something shocking from our next generation:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQmz6Rbpnu0&feature=related The girl who silenced the world for 5 minutes

[-] -1 points by Sovjet (19) from Mačvanski Prnjavor, Central Serbia 12 years ago

From his words i hear that we definitely need a worldwide COMMUNISM... "pure" communism..

[-] 3 points by yarichin (269) 12 years ago

Kim Jong Il was reported dead today. I know of course when you speak of PURE communism that the KIM family and Castro are not what you are talking about. A real communist leader would be the POOREST person in their nation, giving up all personal wealth to any person who has less, on sight. Our capitalist and communist systems have been ruined by greed. A true capitalist would never expect any help when they fail. A capitalist believes risk and reward come together. What we and the North Koreans have in common is a FEUDAL system. A few rich azzholes win no matter what happens to the rest of us. They win and keep their winnings, if they loose they suddenly become communists and their loss becomes socialized.

[-] 2 points by Sovjet (19) from Mačvanski Prnjavor, Central Serbia 12 years ago

This is completely true..We need to take down the monetary system

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

"the zeitgeist movement (.com)" and "the venus project (.com)" are good starting points for removal of the monitary system. a world wide resource based economy using technology and the scientific method to address social issues seems the smartest way to go at this point. if you want some realistic answers to the problems we face today, check them out.

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

If you want america to give up the constitution and its soviergnty, then check those websites out. Here is the thing.....We have a problem with the governemnt now. Just wait untiul you totally depend on them for everything. If you wanna solve the worlds problems. start by giving away all your possessions. See we want everyone to have all this stuff as long as we don't have to give any of ours. How much food could you have bought with the money you spent on your computer. People need to wake up and see the truth the Zeitgeist and venus project movements gets their roots from theocracy. Check it out....its a system for world domination that has to get rid of anyone who doesnt agree. If the powers that corrupt our system got hold of that systrm( which is why those same powers advocate that system) we wouldnt have the right to occupy anything. POWER CORRUPTS, ABSOLUTE POWER CORRUPTS ABSOLUTELY!!!! We need to get back to our roots. If you wanna feed the hungry, do it without the government.

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

ggad- i understand your apprehension. but you (and everyone reading this) need to do more research on tzm and tvp. and then make up your own minds on how sound the ideas are. we are always hardwired into the incumbent paradigm. new ideas are sometimes uncomfortable. but for example, in an environment of sustainable abundance why would anyone bother taking over or dictating anything? call this a plot for world domination, or a cult, or a religion, or communism, or a utopian fantasy, or claim any other fear based misinformation you want, but it's no more those things than the scientific method can be. the scientific method has checks and balances (reliance on empirical evidence) and so do the venus project and zeitgiest ideas. for another example: there's no need to give up all our possessions. but if you don't feel like hauling around a lot of stuff where ever you go you wouldn't need to (since money is no object, cars, golf clubs, etc could be provided where ever you are). but it's up to you. no one will tell you what possessions you can or can't have (although, as an another example: you'd make a pretty big fool out of yourself if you claimed the entire continent of africa for your own). keeping in mind that there is no such thing as a utopia (no perfect world), just know that these ideas provide for a much improved collection of living conditions than the ones we're living in and headed for. and anyway, if it doesn't work we can always go back to the way things are; depending on obsolete concepts such as money, which perpetuate war, famine, crime and pollution (etc). but if we did give these rational ideas a chance, at least we could say we tried something sensible to save the future for our kids and grandkids etc... r buckminster fuller said: “you never change things by fighting the existing reality. to change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete.” (kind of like the car made the horse obsolete). i truly believe the scientifically based ideas promoted by the venus project and the zeitgeist movement make sense (but that's because i've thoroughly researched them). of course they're not going to be perfect. but i believe if we give them a chance they'll allow the future humans on this planet the ability to chart their own future according to what the feel is best for them. but with money or government involved in the decision making process, that's going to be nearly impossible for the future. so look into these conceptual models thoroughly before you assume that they're bad... there won't be any desire for power to corrupt. there'll be no need. it would be like banging your head into a wall. it would be a waste of time. there'll be far more better things people will want to do. in a resource based economy, the quest for power will be an outdated form of our survival instinct. but since survival is taken care of, it would be unnecessary. i invite any and all questions and will try to answer them as best i can.

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