What does everyone think of the Occupy movement?

What do you think it stands for, and do you agree with it?

Have you gone to see or participate in a local one?


Broadly, I agree with the Occupy movement in the sense that I think economic inequality is worth protesting about. More importantly, corporate influence in government should be an absolute no-no. From what I read, however, that is exactly what fuels the American political system. They rely on giant donations from corporations in order to campaign. Those corporations in turn expect giant kick-backs and to hold levers of power.

That isn't democracy; that's corporatism. It can never be tolerated. One person, one vote. NOT one dollar, one vote.

I have been to my local one, Occupy Wellington. Problem is, it's overrun with hippies. I don't mean to be judgemental; I'm sure I agree with these people on a lot, and I'm sure they're intelligent and nice people. But they don't give that impression. Half of them had dreads, were playing bongos, and protesting about fluoridated water. I really struggle to associate myself with something that presents itself in such a silly way. It diminishes the credibility of their message, and makes me worried about how people will see me for expressing my views.

By no means do I think that the only opinions worth listening to are those that come from people in suits and with degrees. But it helps to have a broader spectrum of people than the Wellington branch of the Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party if you are claiming to be the 99%.