Military Veterans Join the 99% on Wall Street
Posted 13 years ago on Nov. 1, 2011, 2:27 p.m. EST by OccupyWallSt
Procession of veterans starts at 11:00amat Vietnam Veterans Plaza, 55 Water Street, New York, NY Will march to Liberty Square (Zuccotti Park)
Military veterans will walk in uniform to join the Occupy Wall Street protests this Wednesday (Nov. 2nd). As the 99% movement spreads across the United States, the presence of veterans at rallies, marches, and occupations is becoming increasingly visible. Veterans who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and even World War II have participated in the movement, speaking out for the 99%, and raising the movement’s visibility in the process. Most recently, the unconscionable treatment of Marine veteran Scott Olsen in Oakland has drawn national attention to veterans’ participation in the Occupy Wall Street movement.
‘Veterans of the 99%’ hope to draw attention to the ways veterans have been impacted by the economic and social issues raised by Occupy Wall Street. They hope to help make veterans’ and service members’ participation in this movement more visible and deliberate.
On Wednesday morning starting at 11:00am, members of the New York City Chapter of Iraq Veterans Against the War and other veterans will come together at Wall Street with other Veterans of the 99%. They will march in uniform from Vietnam Veterans Plaza to Liberty Square (Zuccotti Park)—the heart of the Occupy Wall Street movement—and hold a "people's mic" to discuss reasons why a growing number of veterans are supporting the 99% movement. They will tell their stories and talk about issues that are important to them as veterans, within the larger economic and democratic crises. These issues include the challenges of veterans re-entering civilian life after war and trauma and during economic recession, and looming cuts to veterans’ health care and VA services. They will talk about their outrage at the treatment of Marine veteran Scott Olsen last week in Oakland. And they will call on other veterans and service members to join the Veterans of the 99%.
Veterans who would like to participate should contact veteransofthe99@gmail.com
Right on!!!!
Shut up.
How do you venture on to a public forum and then tell people to shut up?
You're starting to act just like the US government!
you hate veterans?
lololol
I can't wait until South Park does its thing with OWS. You losers are comedy gold.
If that poor young man dies, what will happen to your kind will be far from funny.
I will try to help the protesters with whatever I can. This guy made me want to very enthusiastically.
Thanks, CD
Gary Bryant Riverside, California Part of the 99%
I hope more join - Harry 99%
I doubt it! Look at them or yourself for that matter, your not a wolf or a sheepdog. You are the epitome of beta's and your "look out if" doesn't hold water with me.
Gary has a point; if Scott Olsen dies OWS will have its first actual martyr. This is not good news for people who disagree with OWS, and it really does not bode well for the Oakland police department. We had a few cops get out of line and start beating on protesters, in particular a Lt. Anthony Bologna. His name, age, address, children's names, and the names and locations of his children's schools went up on the Internet fairly quickly after the incidents started.
As long as Scott Olsen is alive those rallying around him are mostly concerned with whether he's going to survive and/or be OK and humbled by his sacrifice. This is a good thing. If Scott Olsen dies, a fair amount of the grief will turn to anger very quickly, and there is the potential for violence. If Scott dies, then the best-case scenariois that his death becomes a symbol and a rallying cry for peaceful change and we double in size. More likely, however, is the presence of enough anger at OPD that the officers on detail that night become targets of public scorn and hatred. There is also the possibility that should tempers flare high enough those officers may be targeted off duty or have their families targeted for retribution. I hope this doesn't happen because that would turn OWS into something many would have a hard time supporting, but I don't have any say in how OWS would react under those circumstances.
[Removed]
Right, we better print out more protest signs with Scott Olsen's face!
your one stupid fucker. These people are fighting for you rights against giants who only care about themselves and shit on all those who dare stand in their way. These corporate assholes are the mafia, masons, whatever you decide to call them, make no mistake, they are a destructive force and need to be stopped before it's too late. This is going to be epic, hell even the mayans predicted it- and all you need to do is shut your pie hole , sit back, and wait for the dust to settle. We're just getting started, anonymous. This post was for c2d3e4.
You missed it. Cartman mentioned the 99% the other day.
You are sitting in your shitty apartment in your sweat pants waiting on South Park to entertain you. Meanwhile these people are out on the street fighting for their rights as well as yours to sit on your ass and watch cartoons. wondering who the real loser is here.
south park is great for making idiots like you laugh at it's surface toilet humour and for making smart people like me laugh at how idiots like you see the world.
I hate to agree with ya...but you are probably right...
u mad bro
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cUP1aoHPEk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBXrD9_DK1g&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL
it's tomorrow night
Yes, this is a great thing to have the people who served this great country join in a movement that will not go away. Because this movement is only just beginning. March on to a better America and let no one stop you.Let the voices of the people be heard.And no better way than have veterans join in mass. We the people of these United States will be heard and those in power will be forced to listen, and make changes.Bless all America and those who believe justice can become a reality.
begining of what?
To bring about changes in how the gov't answers to people.
Care to be more specific?
well going to poles clearly isn't the answer.And until the American people stop supporting there life styles on borrowed money, they are only playing into the current system of corruption. People need to stop paying all their bills close all their bank accounts, the money supply needs to be dried up and until all the people start to change their lifestyles how do they expect that those in power can be changed.Money and or lack of it going to those who support the corruption in Gov't is the best way to make those in power take notice that american's are serious about change.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. Election reform, Lobby reform, and term limits. The only way any of these is going to happen is with a national referendum. Never heard of a national referendum? That's because every time someone has tried to pass legislation to have one, it's been shot down, knowing if the people got to vote on mass to select laws it would take all of the power away from the power brokers. There I've said it again, the place to start, not that hurting the top 1% bottom line wont get attention, it will, but it wont get results, they can hold out a lot longer than we can. Just sayin'.
I say yes to you. But here's the big if, getting the America people behind you. People are scared of change, unless there is are no other ways for it to happen. It will be seen what happens in oakland on Nov 2nd. Because I still feel Americans in general aren't bad enough off to send a message to those in power that the country is ready for the changes needed to make life better for all.
For some of us it's more that we know we don't live in a Democracy, yet on behalf of the 1% we are sent off to war under the guise of stomping out injustice and non-democratic governments.
Don't think taking back Kwait had anything to do with justice. We slaughtered fellow human beings in the name of Justice and to protect our Democratic "American Way of Life", but there was no plan of military intervention until after big oil called in their markers in DC.
The world has always been controlled by those who have the control over money. Why is it that American's believe that the rich would ever be willing to give up their money to level the playing field? War's are fought for money and control not justice. the American people are blinded by Big business and Gov't.
Granted, radical action is needed to accomplish this, but I think we're getting closer by the day to having the numbers needed to mount massive protests and gradually leverage the composition of congress.
I really want to believe that most American's will see that the current path that this nation and others are on will not work.And realize that the time for change is now. People need to start thinking of others and not just themselves. What is a need and verus what is a must have. And if it takes radical action to wake up America so be it. But change has to happen. Greed needs to be dealt with. Corruption must be dealt with. And until we the people confront those who have the power, change won't happen.
The poles work fine. Look at nov 2010
I'll take that as a laugh. lol
Which is why you prefer mob rule and why you will fail miserably. People were sent to washington to stop the spending, they stopped it. How is this not working as intended?
I don't know what country you live in but Washington hasn't stopped spending at all. they are still spending at a much greater rate than they collect. Washington is out of control.
Not through legislation. Again.. they are marching on the wrong place. Another stimuli was just recently shot down. How can you not know this?
Yes, they are marching in the right direction,Washington D.C. is coming. And how much does this country waste on wars. That only make the rich richer.
Start at the white house and congress. Wall st is a scapegoat.
What you see as mob rule won't work, eh? Exactly what King George III thought in 1776.
Stopping spending is not the cure of all our ills. Just try this little experiment at home: Make it your policy to reduce your expenditure on food by 99%. Write back and let us know how that works out. Things are more complex than that.
Economic rules need to adapt to changes in technology. Why? Because technology enables the devious among us to do things that couldn't be done at the time when the old laws were written.
If you can outspend your political opponents and use mass media to misdirect the argument, 95% of elections are won by the candidate with the bigger wallet. Government of the people, by the rich, for the rich must be put back into balance.
Massive shady mortage practices by lenders when combined with bailing them up into collateralized debt obligations on Wall Street which then sliced those up and sold them as allegedly AAA investments while supposedly being propped up by credit default swaps (not technically insurance, to avoid legal requirements to have the funds to back them up if they ever came due) were all used to create a great engine that built too many houses, and rather than building the world economy in a worthwhile way, and caused a collapse like the all-hype house of cards it was. Now homes are worth less than you owe. Banks are holding back on the loans required for small businesses to create jobs because they're waiting on the other economic shoe to drop.
What were the results of the housing bubble? A few made vast fortunes, and the world at large went to hell in a handbasket. We can't allow such scams not to be crimes for which the perps actually go to jail and suffer consequences for their malice, rather than just letting the victims take all the punishment. Furthermore, it masked where things are really headed as technology advances, a place where old rules won't work any more.
Change requires getting people's attention to injustice, it's origins and where things have us headed.
You can jump off a cliff and experience no great down side till you hit the ground again. If we invent things that are eventually used to invent better things and so on until machines can outperform humans in all activities, who has a job then? Where is this unrefereed game of musical chairs going? Will the machines decide to make fertilizer of the 99%?
Answers to the future won't be found until people address these issues, which won't happen if we can't see what's really happening.
Take a look around. The world as you knew it no longer exists.
Democracy cannot work if the people are ignorant and supposedly allowed to drive the state. A fool and his money are soon parted.
No it doesnt work and never has. Do not dishonor this countrys founders will your indoctrinated bullshit. The massive spending was stopped, its a start. These marches are more empty everyday.
Savings alone are no way out of a recession. The more you save, the less others have to spend. It's a big world. So big it now would cost over $4 billion just to buy the world a Coke. The country's founders put the First Amendment in the Constition with good reason. If you want to remain quiet after people on Wall Street walked away with the money from hollowing out the world economy, that's your choice. These marches are pointing out that being quiet after you've been swindled just encourages the theives. Get out of my way!
They didnt put it there so people could occupy wherever they want. Thats not in there.
Sorry, but I pay my bills and will continue to do so.
Don't worry, your father was against change like that in the 60s and 70s :)
My father?
change!
Change we can believe in? Been there, done that. I would like to hear some concrete ideas here rather than slogans and Obama-like jive. I'm a vet. Navy. I participate in Occupy but it looks to me like these encampments have become an end in themselves. Discussion must lead to specific actions. Forgive debt. March and encamp for that. Target lobbyists and money in politics. It's not enough to identify abuses. We all know what's up at this point. But like the Obama administration people talk and talk but nothing happens:)
Well, I believe that specific first few steps would need to be
1) Raise awareness and register to vote.
2) Vote in this falls elections and vote against any anti-labor issues/candidates on the ballot.
3) VOTE in the primaries this spring, vote AGAINST incombants, especially if they voted for free-for-all trade 'Deals' or bank 'bailouts'
4)Vote for the most pro-labor candidates, and those willing to prosecute corporate criminals, those that broke the law and donated their way out of it.
5) repeat steps 1-4
I cannot stress enough how important it is to vote in the spring primaries, this is where corporate america buys the elections. If we don't participate, by the time the fall comes it's corporate choice A or corporate choice B.
If we can defeat enough incombants THIS SPRING, the rest may crap down their collective legs and fall into line.
Thanks for your service to our country, first of all. Second, why are you advocating for "debt forgiveness", specifically, debt from students (or are you advocating for anyone who is in debt in general?)...
I support efforts to pry corporate interests from the toxic feedback loop filled with bailouts, lobbyists and jobs in government, which has corrupted our system beyond belief. One must acknowledge that under Obama, Bush and beyond this system has been common practice and it is more visible than ever due to the depression/recession.
I believe it's more visible now because they believe it's too late for anyone to do anything about it. That's one of the reasons I like this OWS movement. It's people coming together to fight what they consider to be injustice in the country, and the world now it seems. I agree that common goals need to be set and acted upon, camping out and making a lot of noise is great for a start, you have to get noticed, but now it's time to set some goals. To me a good place to start is Election, and Lobby reform, Term limits, and a National Referendum.
I want to see all debt forgiven. This concept has arisen in many different forums lately. Debt Jubilees are really an ancient tradition. As for education, I think it should be free up to the PhD level. Our future lies in an educated citizenry. Free the 99% from debt slavery, not just the banks:)
I totally agree. keep pushing to stop the misuse of economics..afterall what we are seeing is salvery economics not economics for nation building with social justice. How in earth we justify the rocketing college tuition....as if no other countries have universities? arent we pax paying society? Let us go back to the basics....social services must be provided for free.
Debt forgiveness between two (or more) consenting parties is all fine and good, but I don't want debt forgiven in my name if I'm expected to make up the difference.
You may be right. I do not know if "the people" realize the scope of change needed.
True to the oath of defending this country from enemies both foreign and domestic. The domestic enemies are those who are in the process of plundering the wealth of this great country and turning it into a sham of freedom.
Thank you for your service to the dream this country was really built on.
This is how this movement ultimately wins. Get Veteran Support. Get Police Support. Get Military Support. Once it has those things, the Greed Based Economy dies!
the police will not support you. they have great pensions and retirement benefits. the armed forces support the constitution. a dead economy ? you plan to live in a cave?grow your own food? weave your own cloth so can make your own clothes? generate your own power?
I can't speak for the real OWS protesters, but I see their cause as supporting a living economy with more agriculture, more textiles, and more power. This can be accomplished by changing the economic rules of the game with the intent that, overall, the resources generated by our economy go more toward supporting endeavors like that, and less toward, say, advertising pharmaceuticals, suing over copyright infringement, foreclosing on houses [then tearing them down and signing them over as "empty space" for a tax writeoff], imprisoning drug dealers, building luxury mansions, and a thousand other such activities which do comparatively little to actually advance the causes of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. To be clear, I'm not talking about a Communist revolution, but rather an adjustment of things like tax rates and writeoffs to undo the damage that has been inflicted by generations of change in the direction of economic inequality and capitalism by chicanery.
The reason why agriculture, textiles and other forms of manufacturing are diminishing, or have disappeared, is simple economics and the anti-competitive policies that have come into being over the past 30 or 40 years. Protectionism harms everyone, currency manipulation and devaluation hurts everyone and choosing winners and losers in business harms everyone.
Hmmm, I've heard a lot of people say we lost manufacturing to free trade, not protectionism. But my point here is somewhat irrelevant to that debate - if we have a better organized society with more equality and universal access to education and health care then we will be able to do better whether we choose to compete on the world market or fulfill our own needs behind a trade barrier.
It's called self-sustainability, supporting local business and community!
Their pensions and retirement benefits depend on our government and economy (as mine does) which is falling.
The constitution guarantees the right to assemble and freedom of speech. Something the US government has been ignoring.
If the armed forces want to support the constitution they need to support us.
NO they don't . The people have free choice and free will.It's not either or.
ignorant
go back to your cocoa.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_of_assembly
They don't?
Warren Buffett, in a recent interview with CNBC, offers one of the best quotes about the debt ceiling:
"I could end the deficit in 5 minutes," he told CNBC. "You just pass a law that says that anytime there is a deficit of more than 3% of GDP, all sitting members of Congress are ineligible for re-election.
The 26th amendment, granting the right to vote for 18 year-olds, took only 3 months & 8 days to be ratified! Why? Simple! The people demanded it. That was in 1971...before computers, e-mail, cell phones, etc.
Of the 27 amendments to the Constitution, seven (7) took 1 year or less to become the law of the land...all because of public pressure.
Warren Buffet is asking each addressee to forward this email to a minimum of twenty people on mtheir address list; in turn ask each of those to do likewise.
In three days, most people in The United States of America will have the message. This is one idea that really should be passed around.
Congressional Reform Act of 2011:
No Tenure / No Pension. A Congressman collects a salary while in office and receives no pay when they are out of office.
Congress (past, present & future) participates in Social Security. All funds in the Congressional retirement fund move to the Social Security system immediately. All future funds flow into the Social Security system, and Congress participates with the American people. It may not be used for any other purpose.
Congress can purchase their own retirement plan, just as all Americans do.
Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise. Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.
Congress loses their current health care system and participates in the same health care system as the American people.
Congress must equally abide by all laws they impose on the American people.
All contracts with past and present Congressmen are void effective 1/1/12. The American people did not make this contract with Congressmen. Congressmen made all these contracts for themselves. Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, so ours should serve their term(s), then go home and back to work.
If each person contacts a minimum of twenty people then it will only take three days for most people in the U.S. to receive the message. Maybe it is time.
THIS IS HOW YOU FIX CONGRESS!
This is a war that if you win will ensure our children will never have to fight a war again. Nice to see you on the front lines again.
Thank you to our brave servicemen. You will finally be able to aid those whom you signed on to protect... your fellow countrymen!!
what is the point of OWS? Really, what is the goal? Just a bunch of pseudo hippies complaining is what it looks like to the rest of the world that is actually working for there dinner. I agree that there are a lot of people that have recieved fat bonuses, more than ill make in my lifetime, and abused the financial market to the point of ruining our economy should be punished, too. But there not, so what is your goal?
Thank you to all the VETS that have done their call to duty. I am embarrassed that this country that I live in has asked you to put your life on the line for democracy, while back at home, democracy has been hijacked. You did what you did for reasons explained to you that made sense. Today, you come home possibly dead, or without certain limbs, or without any certainty in the rest of your life. And for what? Greed on the part of so many! Regardless what happens, know that I am indebted for you for what you did, even though those who profitted off of what you did, would rather you weren't alive. Thank You.
Occupy IS Winning! BANK OF AMERICA AND REGIONS BANK DROPED $5 Debit Card Fees. Pull Your Money Fromthese banks. asap. Ditch Cable TV. Ditch phone contracts also (Prepaid is the way to go) if you want to change these price gouging corporations.
Why anyone would want a debit card to begin with is beyond me. Debit cards are not a good deal anyway. Use cash and keep all your transactions off the books. Barter whenever possible and get paid in cash for work if possible.
You mean,.........not pay taxes? Oh No !!
Oh, yes! ;)
You pay a tax on everything you buy, if it's not an outright sales tax , it's been built into the price of the item.
I'm suggesting people increase their level of barter, for one thing.
Sorry, you can try bartering but the gas co. electric co, insurance co. etc only take money.
Certainly, there are limitations. But what do these folks care, they're all living in the streets now anyway, right?
you haven't won a thing. business is business. their concern is their bottom line , as it should be.
@raines, so should these "good business men" be controlling our legislature as well? If YOU run a good distance behind the "bottom line", is that who you want deciding your fate?
Ask 0bama , he's bought and paid for by george soros.
@raines, I suppose the fact that you can come on this forum and post such simplistic, biased, finger-pointing posts as that shows that either you don't comprehend, you choose not to comprehend, or someone is paying you to pretend can't comprehend that the OWS movement wants to remove control of each, both, and all parties populating the government by purely monied interests. Please, go away unless you can contribute something productive.
Limiting free speech?
"business is business" is going to change!
Yes, and the winning will continue! We're in an uphill battle but we have the bulk of the youth in this country on our side (the good side) so we will succeed! Ignore the trolls --- they are just gnats on a hot summer day. An annoying aspect of life but oh well.
You don't have the bulk of the youth. You WISH you did.
Yes an uphill battle. If people were a little more educated in this country it would run alot smoother for everyone.
Yes, if you were better educated you would know that alot is spelled a lot. It's two words.
can we get live footage from different places regarding the veterans school teachers unions ect. from other cities? I know it's possible guys Hint hint:)
Nothing like the thought terminating slogans from the right....oooohhhhh, I'm scared now.
Nothing like the thought terminating slogans from the right....oooohhhhh, I'm scared now.
Fuzzy5150 what's your problem, man?
I have great respect for the soldiers.
It's the politcians who decide on war, the media barons who handle the PR preparation, and the profiteering bomb makers that are criminals.
The Vietnam as well as the Irak war were wrong and immoral, based on lies, the invasions of Panama and Grenada were wrong. The recent Nato massacers in Libya were wrong.
I WONDER HOW LONG IT WILL TAKE BEFORE THE ACTIVE DUTY or NATIONAL GUARD SOLDIERS ARE GOING TO BE FACING THE CROWDS ON AMERICA"S STREETS? as they stand face to face with their protesters, How many will wonder if they will even get paid because of a corrupt and power hungry congress doesn't want to pay their soldiers sailors and marines this month? Will they even get a job when they finish their tours of duty? or, will they be homeless walking the streets wondering if they have committed themselve in vain to a let them eat cake government while they and their dependents struggle to eat even for the day? Imagine a country pitting their honorable soldiers and marines against their own people on american soil. I am expecting to see it within days. I am turning to all of you and saying the media blackout will not work! although they are slanting this whole thing on the major media outlets and ignoring the movement, thank you for telling the truth and for all that live footage. The soldiers who will be facing the crowd will need to know the truth. THIS WILL NOT GO AWAY! IT CANNOT BE IGNORED! GOD HAS STIRRED THE PEOPLE AND HIS ANGER IS SHOWING IN HIS CHILDREN! signed a VETERAN!
Prepare the signs that tell the national guard and reserves what awaits them: unemployment. Let them know which side their bread is buttered on. Let them know it's their kids who will go hungry. Win hearts and minds (might work better here than in Afghanistan.)
Very good suggestions and very good points thank you!!! hoorah!
Hey brother....the world has changed since Kent State...no American solider will point a weapon at US civilians.
That's why you have the police, no qualms there.
But if that's true, then it means the soldiers won't point their weapons at right wing rallies either.
lets hope so!
We shall see ...
N-N-NICE. Say it like you mean it!
This is what happens when brilliant scholars try to give a political history lesson. On a subject that he or she is passionate about. 900 cities a world wide protests for economic rights. I was ill for about 12 days and to feeble to even write......Now I am back...This is our time the of the tip of the iceberg. A social storm that is brewing that know one will escape...Perhaps if it goes bad?? The end of Civilization as we know it. Sorry about the future drop in property values..
This next 10 years is going to make the 1960's look like fart. I was a history major before I studied computers. I took about three years of it. And, I know the times they are changing, at a lighting speed which will shock awe even the people that put it into motion. So strap on your seat belts and get ready for it.
They did not have cell phones or personal computers in the 1960's, and each generation, the kids get smarter in different ways, and those 99 percent warriors camping in the snow to make point on Wall Street in New York and around the rest of the USA are not going to be swayed as easy as the powers that be, falsely believe. They want economic fairness and when a group of people try to take wealth from the rich through-out history blood is always spilled. If my health was better I would be there with those young saints. God bless their cause! An Iraq War veteran who survived two tours of duty gets his skull fractured in ... Oakland! 53 activists arrested in Atlanta. SWAT teams deployed to boot out peaceful protesters. May the divine hand of god guide these inspired peaceful economic warriors of God! Signed A disabled Vietnam Era Veteran who lives constant pain both physically and emotionally, but not spiritually! With 31/2 feet of scar on my body, and compromised immune system from chemical poisoning I'll be there when my health permits. U.S. Air Force, Department of Defense, and former TOP GUN XmiLeS
America by consensus, our liberty or death! That is exactly what American freedom stands for. " We the people." Everyone seems to know this except for t he bureaucrats in Washington who's ears are deafened by their own entitlement. Their entitlement manifest itself in self raises, personal social security, health care and pensions. And if that is not enough Washington is suppose to reflect the people. I see only lawyers! Why are there no carpenters or artists or actors or moms or merchants or clergy in the Senate or House. That woud be a concensus of the people. Instead we are being told by a very small elite who are selling us out to corporations for their own engrandizement, here is what we have decuded for you. Except now they can't even deide. More than ever we need a concensus by the people and for the poeple. We need to be represented by many people's voices and not just lawyers. We need to affirm that this is our land, our government, our society. Time and again, we the 99% have given them an opportunity and we trusted them to fulfill their promise and every time they are elected they disregard us and make a career out of what is to be a four year job, not fourty. Nothing corrupts absolutely like absolute power. In reality the people have the power. United we stand, so do not divide. Unite! Stay united. Vote with your feet and your pocket book, Use the internet and social media. In one day we could all refuse to buy anything and totally stop the US economy. One email action that we unite on could make the earth stand still. Look at the response in NY when just a few weekends ago all took their money out of Bank of America. This movement is not just an abstract hope because there is action. We have momentum. We have already reach a concensus world wide and that is to act together for the benefit of all mankind not just those few at the top. Remenber it is the base of the pyramid that supports the top. Take away the base and the pyramid crumbles.Continue today and everyday take away just one brick from the wall. Wall street.
"Freedom, a government for the people by the people", not just lawyers. Next time you vote, don't vote for a lawyer for public office, vote for a citizen and rid ourselves of the promise breakers and of the corporate deal makers. We have become a CORPacracy. All this ends everyday we stand united. We are the people of America, get up and stand up for your rights. Be good to yourself, be part to a concensus.
nice stuff crispin and xmiles! thansks to both of you
The wearing of the uniform is prohibited under any of the following circumstances:
(1) At any meeting or demonstration which is a function of, or sponsored by an organization, association, movement, group, or combination of persons which the Attorney General of the United States has designated, pursuant to E.O. 10450, as amended as totalitarian, fascist, communist, or subversive, or as having adopted a policy of advocating or approving the commission of acts of force or violence to deny others their right under The Constitution of the United States, or as seeking to alter the form of Government of the United States by unconstitutional means. =======>>>>> ETC, ETC, ETC!!!!!...............http://usmilitary.about.com/od/theorderlyroom/a/uniformwearmc.htm
OCCUPY is now a Viable 3rd Party and should organize as such. We can take this "Girly-man" Congress back, prosecute CRIMES against HUMANITY in the Bankers' acts, Stop the Tax Relief for Trillion Dollar Companies and Tax the BLOODY SELFISH RICH THEIR FAIR SHARE.
you're .25% of the population.
veterans, this a revolution, nothing less. A revolution that has to take place it will not be an overnight battle. It will end with the old establishment being powerless . with your help it will be replaced and the people taken care of which will lead to a great nation.
my b'day was nov 2 1956.,,i have worked on this take back of America through the '60's and 70's ..now finally this ... i have been waiting and watching,serving,working,and yes praying, a good long while. i knew it was only a matter of time before our troops would have to make the choice between the gov and the people. With the communication black-out in a few days, the bank day going strong and the occupy movements there may just be that one clean shot to turn this mess around. "it is a pity when a giver meets a taker" . Yes, turn the other check, but don't allow yourselves to be slapped again and again. God Bless America! (happy birthday to me)
Not to worry. Obama has no problem denouncing war yet starting new ones as long as he's not on the front lines
I say, 10,000 people need to knock on McConnell front door at home in Kentucky. Maybe then he will get the message
Mitch McConnell's home address 2318 Dundee Rd Louisville, KY 40205-2070
My heartfelt THANKS to all veterans who have served their country at home and in wars all over the earth! I share your distress and righteous anger at the disgusting manner in which you have all been treated by "our" (really owned by the banksters and Wall Street) government. Let us go forward together to reclaim our freedom!
It's sad that the united states provides veteran's their uniforms after discharge to provide them a sense of pride and you have this parade of former soldiers misrepresenting what that uniform is about.
Do you ever wonder why political candidatwe who are veterans don't wear their uniform when advertising their candidacy? As a veteran Why don't I, a veteran, wear it when I go out in town?
Because this is when the military tells us is legitimate to wear our uniform to represent the US armed forces.
1) Personnel performing instructor duties at an educational institution conducting courses of instruction approved by the Armed Forces (such as JROTC). (2) While attending military funerals, memorial services, weddings, inaugurals, and other occasions of ceremony. (3) Attending parades on national or state holidays, or other patriotic parades or ceremonies in which any active or reserve United States military unit is taking part. For (2) and (3), above, only service and dress uniforms may be worn; the BDU and physical fitness uniforms will not be worn.
Take some pride in your uniform and wear it when appropriate.
Veterans are assumed to be violent in the home. So the federal government has a domestic violence incentive program to more thoroughly prosecute veterans who are often falsely accused of domestic violence.
To protest the behavior of big banks, thousands have pledged to switch to small credit unions on November 5. Follow these steps to simplify the process. http://www.yesmagazine.org/new-economy/a-field-guide-to-closing-your-bank-account
In uniform should mean the dress uniform with medals, not fatigues. It would be impressive to see cops beating up on vets in their dress kits. Interesting and very telling since so many cops are recruited from the military.
If I show up in uniform it will be my Navy dress blues with medals. Let them throw that uniform down onto the ground in their mad rush for obedience.
I've noticed a trend on the "comments" when it comes to vets who support OWS. They are portrayed as "whiney." Suddenly there are two types of veterans: The ones who shut up and stand like statues to be petted as heros. And those who speak out and get tagged as malcontents. Before OWS there was only one kind of vet: the kind we shook hands with and said, "thank you." It didn't matter if you were for the war or not, you were for the vets.
"There's class warfare, all right, Mr. (Warren) Buffett said, but it's my class, the rich class, that's making war, and we're winning."
"There has been class warfare going on," Buffett, 81, said in a Sept. 30 interview with Charlie Rose on PBS. It's just that my class is winning. And my class isn't just winning, I mean we're killing them."
"The difference between cannon fodder and fighting for your country is the difference between going overseas and being told by the government what to do and taking to the streets at home and telling the government what to do." C. Hoffman
This week a woman told me "Everybody in OWS is a loser." I guess service men and women were heros when they fought for her rights in the middle east and became losers when they protested for her rights on American streets. I know who the loser is.
Getting the military on your side is, historically, a good thing. Every revolution that has succeeded has gotten the blessing of the military. From France (1789) to Egypt (2011).
Now get the police on your side by putting up signs that state how they are being cut and squeezed because Wall St. vacuumed up the tax dollars that should've been their paychecks.
First of all, our Nation does not take care of Veterans. My family fought, for generations, under our flag, only to see 4F types get big careers and run around calling one another, "Great Amercians." My generation gets an education and the same 4f pieces of work want to leave us in poverty? What do you need to be an Investment banker? You need a Series 7 and a College degree? We spend over one hundred thousand dollars training our soldiers. Why can't we replace every one of these non-veteran rich kids with a US veteran? Let the Wall Street guys and gals go fight to avenge their dead relatives and co-workers, from 9/11. Let the men and women, loyal to this country and willing to die for this country, get the top paying careers. End of story.
A man who is good enough to shed his blood for the country is good enough to be given a square deal afterwards.
Theodore Roosevelt
I have seen several of your "veteran" protesters many times at different anti- government rallies. They are all members of IVAW and to describe them as anything but despised would be putting it lightly. Simply a circle jerk of guys that couldn't make it and PX rangers.
Last Sunday was the first time I ever spoke at an Occupy event. This was at a peace vigil in Denver. To the best of my memory, the following is what I said. Note, at the time I was wearing my old Air Force Suit Coat…
Mic Check
The last time I put this coat on
was 32 years ago.
The first time I put it on
I took an oath
to support and defend
the Constitution of the United States.
I'm here tonight for many reasons,
but the primary reason
is to fulfill that oath.
Mic Check
Nov 11th 2011 is When US Vet's Should Join Occupation http://ioccupywallstreet.net/?p=67
That poster is disturbing for two reasons......
Love for Scott Olsen and the vets http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCSsFDrmghc&
Have the greatest respect for these guys and gals!
Go veterans!
More Power to Occupy Wall Street and our Veterans. Fair- ness.
Waiting for the Government and the Banks to put an end to this mortgages’ Saga…it is about time to stop this episode of theft and stealing peoples’ money and driving them to the streets. Almost all house and properties are underwater, so for how long we continue to pay on premium bases. Defaults on Mortgages should not lead to Foreclosures after all we have increasing evidence that bad loans were provided and this must be corrected. Foreclosures simply means the banks and financial institutions are doing business as usual and still making money on all ends regardless of mal practices they already established under the law. Stop the Mortgage SAGA NOW.
Other military veterans should believe in themselves and follow the example of their fellows to success, dignity, freedom, honour and respect .
is this only a march for veterans or are civilians welcome to come as well?
You can vote at http://goo.gl/NuCTF
Waiting for the Government and the Banks to put an end to this mortgages’ Saga…it is about time to stop this episode of theft and stealing peoples’ money and driving them to the streets. Almost all house and properties are underwater, so for how long we continue to pay on premium bases. Defaults on Mortgages should not lead to Foreclosures after all we have increasing evidence that bad loans were provided and this must be corrected. Foreclosures simply means the banks and financial institutions are doing business as usual and still making money on all ends regardless of mal practices they already established under the law. Stop the Mortgage SAGA NOW.
Waiting for the Government and the Banks to put an end to this mortgages’ Saga…it is about time to stop this episode of theft and stealing peoples’ money and driving them to the streets. Almost all house and properties are underwater, so for how long we continue to pay on premium bases. Defaults on Mortgages should not lead to Foreclosures after all we have increasing evidence that bad loans were provided and this must be corrected. Foreclosures simply means the banks and financial institutions are doing business as usual and still making money on all ends regardless of mal practices they already established under the law. Stop the Mortgage SAGA NOW.
Every time I read that another veteran has joined, I smile a bit more. They are then 99% that fought and risked their lives so the 1% could get where they are. They are probably more angry than anyone else. So seeing them raise their voices alongside the rest of the civilian 99% is a powerful thing.
Go veterans!
Lots of them have been fed lies over and over, while many have gone to die while the richest benefit from the wars, yet have no children fighting in it.
how is any of this effecting the people in power? true if everyone stopped consuming all together it would put a dent in there pockets and prove a point, but what would it change? they still have resources,money,and the connections to make your movement in vain. a good friend and myself speak of this subject often. so think if you had all this money and power what would you do in that mind set? you would protect it these people have been in these organizations of power for a long time, and unfortunately the only thing that seems like it would take the neccessary means to temporarely eliminate this cycle is by eliminating the corupt who have created it.
Go Vets!!!!
It's worth mentioning that Ron P gets more donations from the military than all other candidates combined. Ask yourself why that might be.
Yes, way to go!
Vets understand, or they should. Glad so many are part of this! Remember Smedley Butler!!!!
sad it takes vets to give credibility, when we are fighting the corporate terrorists with militarism as their arm of repression
awesome
im not one to usualy partake in protests let alone any other form of activity alongside humans. but i believe the 1% that is left in charge of this world. rich poeple, poeple that have no idea how it is to be part of the 99%.
one should make a huge poster with 100 poeple in it. 99 of em are the 99% and the 1 being the 1% then set with big letters CAN YOU FIND THE 1%?!! (just my idea~)
Semper Fi...
what is the point of OWS? Really, what is the goal? Just a bunch of pseudo hippies complaining is what it looks like to the rest of the world that is actually working for there dinner. I agree that there are a lot of people that have recieved fat bonuses, more than ill make in my lifetime, and abused the financial market to the point of ruining our economy should be punished, too. But there not, so what is your goal?
the economy sucks, that s the point.
I know this might not relate to this post much but a great song to go with one of the vids and the movement in general would be John Farnhams - You're the voice
The lyrics to the song are: We have The chance to turn the pages over We can write what we want to write We gotta make ends meet, before we get much older
We're all someone's daughter We're all someone's son How long can we look at each other Down the barrel of a gun?
You're the voice, try and understand it Make a noise and make it clear We're not gonna sit in silence We're not gonna live with fear
This time We know we all can stand together With the power to be powerful Believing, we can make it better
We're all someone's daughter We're all someone's son How long can we look at each other Down the barrel of a gun?
You're the voice, try and understand it Make a noise and make it clear We're not gonna sit in silence We're not gonna live with fear
We're all someone's daughter We're all someone's son How long can we look at each other Down the barrel of a gun?
You're the voice, try and understand it Make a noise and make it clear We're not gonna sit in silence We're not gonna live with fear
[fades]
You can view it with the lyrics here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oawfn73Va6M
Keep reposting the link if you agree (so that it doesn't get lost in the comments).
As a retired Navy veteran, I just want to say "WAY TO GO TROOPS!"
As a retired Navy veteran, I just want to say "WAY TO GO TROOPS!"
www.facebook.com/uncagebull
Excellent.
I have to write a paper about the Occupy Wall Street anyone have any good facts that I should point out?
I love how all the naysayers have only negative/angry things to say. I never respond to them...it just feeds their anger. I just sit here in front of my monitor with a big smile on my face. It's working OWS! The corrupt are finally seeing that America is starting to wake up and they don't like that. Veterans are not treated any better in this country then the average worker is. Of course they will side with the 99%. They are the 99%! And even if they were not. They are still our sons and daughters, our aunts and uncles, our cousins and our friends. They are our fathers and mothers and husbands and our wives. I don't know what type of brain washing they do in other countries to get their Army's to fight against their people...but I do know that that wont work here. Our government would need our soldiers support to be able to 'clean the streets' of protesters, and that is just not going to happen! Sooner or later they will be forced to hear us. Thanks to all the veterans, who never stop fighting for their country and Thank you occupiers for standing up for us all. Hope to join you soon.
agreed
This is central. Condemn venal journalism for severely fooling the people. http://occupywallst.org/forum/condemn-venal-journalism-for-severely-fooling-the-/
the 'facts' are for you to find, not someone else to point out.
from my expierence the difference between 'fact' and 'fiction' is in the eye and memory of the beholder.
expierence defines wisdom.
today, you believe; the worst about tommorrow is betrayal, forgotten tombstones.
of all the monuments in D.C., that black granite wall, will remain as a open wound - a question: how did this happen?
what do you think the iraq monument will look like? what do you think it 'should' look like? Then, you will be able to imagine a 'fact' as monumental.
this post was meant for msjames88
I think the movement of Occupy Wall street are bunch of loser, why? cause you can not change a thing! unless we as in we the people can turn over the US Gov. call upon a true revolution else we are not going to succeed in this action, this is why I call you all are loser, I know this word loser not really apply to all of the brave soul out there but you are not going to turn over the US Gov. why? if you go beyond a point of no return the US gov. is going to declare martial laws and all of you are going to jail for treason. So what should we as the people can do if we are not going to turn over government? first peacefully go home, then get organized not on the street but in a true not for profit org. that enforce US law to depose the congress, senator, and especially the president or any of people elect government officials, Reelecting these people will need money to run campaign, we as the people will find a way to run election campaign with out funding's from large or small corporations. Then we are truly free from the leash of corporate America and this leads to a clean government system truly run by the people. I want to remind you all US government is a true lying sack of.... at China Beijian Square US accuse China government neglect human right, but look at our homeland, in Oakland what do we see? police officer acting as an military personal accuse us braking the law then we get arrested, kick and thrown to the ground etc. etc. all of you are brave sole, sorry I had to call you all a loser to draw out my point but unless we can truly turn over the government then we must follow the law we hate and step by step change the people in the house. by the way if we can kick president in the ass I will be the first one in line, why ? they must accept money to run campaign in order to get elected, so i don't blame the system, I blame the person who knew this and still lie to the people when he get in to the office he is going to change, and that is BS, he is just leash as the rest of the elected Gov. official
http://oathkeepers.org/oath/
Occupy The Fed Now LA - Veteran: "The Constitution is a beautiful document."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Yy5ec85sis&feature=player_embedded
The folks who seem to have it all figured out, who continue all with the negative, unfounded comments only prove that the job we have is going to be tough. Dealing with ingrained ignorance, racism, and classism from all angles will be a process of restraint and patience coupled with decisive and strong action. They obviously have no idea of the vastness of these issues we are dealing with, there are no jobs because our industry is in shambles, we compete in a global market where countries subsidize their work forces and industry and we will never be able to compete while maintaining our social and civil rights. It is about re-animating the pride in our own goods, pride in our education systems and pride in our rights. Many of the people who claim to have worked hard while protestors are "lazy bums" take absolutely no accountability while they buy foreign made goods, vote blindly, and never take the time to look outside themselves at the vast lower class who are stuck in a vicious cycle of sub-standard education and an impossible job market. Please get some real material for your criticism or just stay off the forum.
agreed
Amen!
One more WWII veteran reporting that he supports OWS. All together, and loud!
i just cannot fathom how economically illiterate you all are. It truly boggles the mind. But then again, most of you are retards and idiots so it does make sense. Eat a dik losers!
I can not fathom how these protest are still gaining momentum. The vast majority of these protesters are members of the 1% of the world. However, they do not want to redistribute their wealth to sub saharan Africa. Before you go camp and disturb the peace, look at the grand scheme of things and how fortunate you really are. Our system works. Go back to work and appreciate what you really have.
If we have a national economic system that writes off the poor, expects people to become homeless and not receive medical care and shuffle off to die somewhere, then how can we exercise that charity toward Africa? You'll have millions of terrified Republican homeowners who think that any refugee is here to take their job, their home and their life, and in a sense they'll be right. But if we set up an economic system that succeeds in preserving the positive rights of man, and allows everyone always to learn and grow and develop talents and participate in bettering the world, then we can use it to draw in the huddled masses from all over, and send them out again competent and inspired to take on and improve their own societies' injustices and inefficiencies.
You point to global structural inequality to excuse structural inequality within our own nation, and then go on to say that this means the system works? I don't even know how to rebut your logic because I can't find any to break down...
Then why is the US bankrupt?
The US isn't bankrupt. Heavily in debt, yes. Bankrupt, no.
I'm not attacking your argument, but if you check your facts before coming out with them, then you'll be more effective.
If you are heavy in debt and you cannot pay off the debt then what do you call it?
I'm no economist or financial analyst or whatever, but i don't think those conditions automatically imply bankruptcy.
Like i said, i'm not attacking your argument. But if i was, i'd grab that little semantic misuse and run with it. It makes your argument much stronger if you dot your t's and cross your i's.
Make that shit ironclad! :-)
(-: (-:
Because,...........0bama keeps spending more than the govt receives in tax revenue.
The U.S. was bankrupt way before Obama was in office. Get a fucking clue.
Actually ,0bama has racked up more debt in his years in office than ALL the presidents that have preceded him.
That's a complete lie. Both Bushes, Reagan, and Roosevelt all increased the national debt MORE than Obama has.... and Bush 43 increased it 20.7% in his 2nd term, which is the 2nd highest debt increase under ANY president. The highest increase was under Roosevelt from 1941-1945 when he raised it 67.1%.
The above percentages are increases in debt/GDP.
swiss dear, 0bama is a failure. He has racked up more debt in his presidency than all the former president combined.
and this is how you know that you're a fucking tool
I do not understand why people think all of this started with Obama. It started way before that with crony capitalism gone rapid. No, I am not for Obama or anyone that now sits in the White House or wants to.
No, it didnt start with him , but given his ideology, it might end the country.
Something else I do not understand is how people actually think the person sitting in the presidential seat runs the country.
He can set the tone of the congress by the platform he runs on.He signs the bills and they become law. He could have vetoed 0bamcare but didn't.
i just cannot fathom how economically illiterate you all are. It truly boggles the mind. But then again, most of you are retards and idiots so it does make sense. Eat a dik losers!
Please do not use the word retards.
You should see some of the stuff I've learned about here I didn't see in the news, or at least, didn't see until later and in less detail. Like http://www.zerohedge.com/news/someone-going-jail-mf-global-caught-stealing-hundreds-millions-customers and http://dailybail.com/home/holy-bailout-federal-reserve-now-backstopping-75-trillion-of.html for example. There are no stupid questions; stupidity is when you don't ask and are purely complacent. OWS doesn't seem very complacent to me.
I can't believe how ignorant you are!
These "99%" are the 1% of the world, because if you make 34000 or more a year, you make more than 99% of the world's population. Explain that please.
So, you're saying people should be happy making $34,000 a year? Many other places have a much lower cost of living compared to the U.S. as well. You're comparing apples to oranges.
One doesn't have to be suffering to sympathize with those who do. In fact it is perhaps these people, who use their position of social advantage to lend a hand to the downtrodden, who are some of most noble of our species.
Your question reminds me of a joke about the computer tech talking on the phone to a woman who was having difficulty with the new computer she just purchased, she had tried everything but the screen wouldn't go on then the technician asked if it was plugged in and she said no. Then he told her to put it back in the box and take it back to the store. She replied why should I ask for one that works and the technician replied no get your money back, your to stupid to own a computer. Not to worry about making 34000 a year.
Cost of living expenses are reletive to local economies, and 34K/yr won't get you much or save you from economic ruin if you lose your job or get too sick.The root cause of joblessness, namely unchecked corporate greed, effects everyone/thing on the planet-and if left unchecked, will further lessen everyone's ablility to live decently (you know, shelter, food, education, healthcare). THERE ARE NO JOBS FOR MANY OF THE PROTESTERS BECAUSE CORPORATIONS HAVE BEEN UNCHECKED IN SETTING UP SHOP OVERSEES, WHERE LABOR IS CHEAPER. The top 1% CONTROL wealth and the system. People who make 34K don't. Hope this helps.
don't forget downsizing.
The corporate taxes are less overseas.
I know a lot of vets and everyone thinks you all are a bunch of slackers and whiners.
What a buddy fucker. I'm a 4 tour vet and I don't think they're slackers and whiners. They're taking on fascism. That's hardcore.
yes! 0bama &co are fascists.
We are losers, We've lost so much. But our voice is Loud not a whine. I suspect you are as much of a loser as we are but have taken the route of the sycophant. Will you kiss those rings when they dull?
you must be one of the I got mine
He probably got his through hard work, whereas you want to 'get yours' by taking from others.
Sorry, it doesn't work that way. Go home and take a shower (you smell) then look for a job, loser.
There are no jobs. That's the point.
I know a lot of vets too, matter of fact I live with some.
They want me to ask you if your eyes are brown, because if they are, you're full of it, if they are not, you're a quart low.
Doing gets things done. Thinking without action is for Losers. So you tell them to keep thinking and we will do the rest. Thank us later.
well. then that sets us straight WinnersWorkLosersStrike. thanks. Or...wait a tick, maybe the "lots of vets" you know are just petulant, intellectually dull, heartless, dickweeds like yourself.
Or don't exist, this is the internet, turns out people lie when they are anonymous and want to validate there own bs.
how true. this guy called iwantfreestuff tried to pass himself off as the owner of his own business, self-made man and all that shit. turns out he's a high school grad working as a salesman for a building contractor. i was really impressed needless to say!
Fantastic job of continuing to organize massive support for OWS! Veterans are a powerful constituency, and expose the enormous hypocrisy of the government, that sends young, working class kids to risk their lives but cuts their benefits at home.
Another grave injustice--I don't know if anything's changed in the past several years, but army psychologists were making it near impossible for veterans to meet the psychiatric diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD--originally called shell shock, I believe, when it was first noticed in WWI veterans). By insisting that their PTSD symptoms had to be unusually extremely severe in order for veterans to get the medical diagnosis, the government thereby denied access to urgently needed psychiatric and disability benefits. And also put the public in danger, as in the cases of veterans who had mental illnesses and often couldn't get jobs who have gone berserk and killed civilians.
Veterans against the Vietnam war were an important component of the movement, also, and educated the public about the realities of the war. They also urged the troops themselves to join the antiwar movement and to speak out.
Thanks to OWS for some more great news and continuing to deepen and broaden the movement!
Dull, dickweeds, big man behind your keyboard, I have dull for you asswipe!