Nov. 24: Occupy Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2011

[Kevinz]

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2011

I’m proposing that Occupy Chicago (and our organizational allies that represent the 99%) call for a major action at the Thanksgiving Parade which has a huge TV audience.

 

Specifically:

We issue a call for supporters to gather on the east side of State Street   between Washington and Randolph beginning at 7AM (necessary to get spots directly in front of the crowd so our posters will be visible to the media as well as the crowds across the street). Naming a specific site along the parade route will also make it easier for the National Lawyers Guild to provide support in the event that the CPD attempts to prevent our posters to be used.  I suggest simple posters ( “We’re the 99%” and “You’re the 99%). In the event that the CPD illegally bans posters in a public space, we simply chant as loudly as possible. The State Street Thanksgiving Parade is attended by over 400,000 spectators and features over 100 participating "units", including marching bands, floats, horses, drill teams, circus performers, and more. This would be an excellent way to get our message out.

 

Chicago's McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade in Brief:

Chicago's Thanksgiving Parade kicks off at 8:30 a.m. on November 24, 2011 and features giant inflatables, marching bands, dancers and more.

Where: State Street from Congress toRandolph

When: Thursday, November 24, 2011 (Thanksgiving Day)

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Admission: FREE!

Getting to the Parade by Public Transportation:

CTA Red Line subway to any stop along the parade route --Jackson, Monroe or Washington stops. Alternately, CTA Brown/Orange/Green line to the Library/State/Van Buren stop.

 

**I've spent over 50 hours with Occupy Chicago (at LaSalle & Jackson) but due to the fact that I have a full-time job in the suburbs it's almost impossible for me to attend a GA. I've already discussed this proposal with others and everyone thought it would help with our outreach efforts.

 

Kevin Clark