Proposal by Direct Action Committee for Permanent Occupation Site

[Mike]

In the past month, adaptability has been a key to the success and survival of Occupy Chicago.  The history of the movement so far has been one of strategic variation in response to changing needs and circumstances.  Because our movement is limited in ways not experienced by other Occupy movements, fluidity and tactical flexibility have been indispensable components of our growth.

We now find ourselves in a moment of both urgency and opportunity.  We have made much progress in terms of building strength, securing support, and putting tangible pressure on the political system here in Chicago.  The momentum is on our side, but we are also in a position which necessitates careful management of our resources.  Our recent direct actions have given us a great deal of leverage, but they have also consumed many of our 'greens', and we therefore find it in our interests to consider new approaches that will allow us to rebuild our ability to conduct meaningful civil disobedience while remaining active.  Also to consider is the fact that this upcoming weekend is Halloween weekend, and any action planned for this weekend would be forced to compete with holiday events for attendance.  On the other hand, we should not let the momentum generated by our previous direct actions slip by, nor should we fail to recognize the urgency posed by the impending Chicago winter.  

Therefore The Direct Action Committee requests from the GA a vote of approval tonight for an  action Thursday evening, after the GA. 

Using a two- prong strategy, there will be a trial-run of at least, but not limited to, 30 occupiers in the Thompson Center Plaza, and a diversionary march somewhere else in the loop onThursday night.

Both actions will remain civilly obedient to mitigate arrests at this time. If participants are asked at any time to vacate the premises by an officer of the law, we will comply. 

There is an open invitation as to who would like to participate in this trial occupation- this is an open action with a miminum, not maximum number of participants set.  If the occupation is successful, defined by a minimum of 30 occupiers for 24 sustained hours without loss of significant equipment, the Housing Committee and Direct Action Committee will engage with the General Assembly to determine next steps for long-term occupation.  All people are called to action Thursday to participate in the occupation or diversionary march.