Our Voice
Occupy Wall Street protests have no leader or clear goal
A little over a month ago, protesters of all ages, races and economic backgrounds came together in New York City to demand change. Gathering inspiration from the recent revolutions in Egypt and Tunisia, Americans banded together in hopes of changing the conversation when it comes to major banks and multinational corporations.
The protests have gone viral since their initial debut, sparking imitation gatherings as far as Asia with over 1,500 events in 82 countries. Phrases such as “corporate greed” and “democracy not corporatocracy” have been thrown in the air as swiftly as they had come. The main cause of the protests seems to have been the mounting discontent with the recent economic collapse revolving around Wall Street.
But, what is it exactly the protesters are demanding to change?
“First, is to envision what democracy means. For example, we’ve received a lot of critiques about you don’t have specific demands, you don’t have XYZ,” said Senia Barragan, member of the press committee at the Occupy Wall Street protest in New York. “But what I keep reiterating is that the purpose of this space, the purpose of this movement is to build a social movement.”
It is difficult to gauge at this time if the movement has accomplished anything and if they in fact will accomplish anything is still to be determined. As of yet, the so-called social movement hasn’t created any effect on the corporate world.
The Colonnade believes that to truly demand change by the corporate world, a clear goal has to be set. Hazy idealistic plans have no place in a legitimate movement.
It is also becoming swiftly apparent that not everyone who attends these protests are aware of what they are actually protesting. Advocates for an imminent revolution have packed their bags without even researching their mission.
“You know, corporate greed … is just getting way out of hand … and greener living. You know, people are sick,” said Elle, a protester at the New York City protests.
Having ignorant protesters inevitably harms the future of the movement. In the short span of four weeks, the protests have garnered much media attention. Allowing unknowledgeable protesters to speak out will damage the reputation of the movement.
Furthermore, the fact that the movement is a seemingly leaderless action works against their cause. How will the protest keep afloat if there is no one to speak up on its behalf? It is unusual to have a protest of this size and not have a leader. If things are to change, who will take the reins in making decisions with public officials?
The organizers of the protest have constantly compared the uprising to Egypt, however the correlation is unseen.
This is no revolution led by the young calling for a dictator to abdicate his reign of power. This is no revolution in action against others who were limiting freedom of speech.
Yes, this movement has allowed the American public to come together for a common goal (although that goal is still unclear) and allowed for feelings of comradery.
However, at best, this is a revolution by the youth in America who suddenly found themselves bored on a Saturday afternoon.
Follow the link below to view the Occupy Wall Street protests recorded by Aubrie Sofala, GC News Editor
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2395274317420&set=vb.1117800003&type=2&theater
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