Submitted to Shelton Blog by Tom Davis Mason County Progressive
For some people the word “occupy” suggests military action, such as recent events by U.S. forces in Iraq. But the current “Occupy” movement sweeping the country is something far different, more like occupying one’s own home.
If there is a negative occupation movement taking place in our country, it is being led by a minority of Americans who control the majority of wealth. And while it is futile to enter into discussions of how such economic inequality came about, it is entirely reasonable for those on the “losing end” of that condition to take action, because the battle is not so much about money as it is about political power, and history reminds us that the greater the economic disparity the greater the threat to our democratic process.
The “Occupy” action of Nov. 28th at our state capitol galvanized many concerns in a single exhibition of democracy at work. Having participated in that action, my wife and I were encouraged by chants of “This is what Democracy looks like” and “Whose State? Our State” rising from the crowd.
Positive social change involves sacrifice and dedication, both of which were in abundance. Participants were well organized and peacefully determined. Perhaps more importantly, all age groups were well represented. A particularly poignant moment came when hundreds of educators joined the demonstration, marching, raising banners and chanting “No more cuts to education!”
Citizens from Shelton carried professionally printed signs that read “We are the 99%” on one side and “Occupy Shelton” on the other. We chanted and “Occupied” the Capitol – our Capitol - though always mindful and respectful of others.
This month marks the 220th anniversary of the Bill of Rights, and I can think of no better time to stand up for principles of equality and freedom on which our country was founded. And while the day was aimed at a better tomorrow, the undercurrent tribute was to yesterday, and to all those who fought and died to protect the very Rights being exercised.
Thank You, Tom.
ReplyDeleteI think that many of us here in Mason County and Washington state can, and do identify with the messages of "We Are The 99%" -- not only on a financial basis but also on a 'we are a person' basis. More and more of the 'silent majority' are getting ready to, in various ways, make our individual, personal voices known. Now Is The Time!!