NYC ADA SUPPORTS OCCUPY WALL STREET

 Occupy Wall Street has indeed changed the national conversation from austerity to inequality.  Born out of  frustration with a stagnant economy, the initial – primarily young -  protestors, have captured the imagination of the nation and coined a new slogan – “we are the 99 percent.”   The movement has continued to be leaderless with no clearly defined goals, despite the fact that it has grown significantly since its September 17, 2011 origins. Its slogan (we are the 99%) has become a battle cry in cities across the nation.  Its opposition to the financial service industry (characterized by the big banks) and to the income inequality resulting from deregulation, etc. is being acknowledged and shared by large numbers of the general public.   Participants are mostly young, unemployed or underemployed. They are not active in electoral politics and thus far show no inclination to be involved. .  Underlying the discontent evident in Occupy Wall Street is the recognition that money controls the government and the current “system” is inherently unfair.  Lobbyists representing special interests dominate the economy.  Inequities exist throughout; the taxation system is in shambles and there seems no chance of reversing this reality in the near future.          

Occupy Wall Street has achieved tangible results including passage of a new tax on millionaires in New York State and recognition by President Obama that his reelection is inextricably linked with addressing the concerns of the 99 per cent front and center.               

NYC ADA applauds the occupiers and joins with them in this struggle.