Who We Are

[pHinkasaurus]

Occupy Chicago is a nonviolent nonpartisan people’s movement. We welcome all, who, in good faith, act to reclaim our economy and democracy from corruption and corporate influence in government. We provide a forum for peaceful assembly of individuals to engage in participatory democracy and non-partisan debate that welcomes dissent.

(full statement after the jump)

 

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[marymcmahon@clear.net]

Just curious, exactly how many votes did this get? Are we gonna start seeing minutes posted again ever?

[Rojo]

I do not understand why people in Occupy are so dead set against telling people to organize and vote. Do you know how many people voted in the 2010 midterms? 41.6 % of all available voters. This is nothing new. It's a pattern that has been developing for decades. The reason we have the government we do is because people have opted out of the participatory process and decided to let others runt the show for them. Occupy is so worried about being infiltrated, I would say that you already have been. Members should question those who advocating " no voting" stance because they are essentially reinforcing business as usual.
As for coming out against Sugar and her group? That's hysterical. Might I remind you that OC co-opted the name from OWS? If OWS decided to release a statement which effectively denounces OC, would you be okay with that? You don't own the "Occupy" name. Anyone can co-opt it. And for a movement that prides itself on free speech for all and empowering people, you seem to be doing a lot to try and silence Sugar.
And for anyone who will come at me with the "election process is a sham" angle, when was the last time you voted in anything other than a Presidential election? Be honest.

[Timmy Caldwell]

I like to think of this as the new Chicago Way.

[Timmy Caldwell]

[quote="Rojo"]I do not understand why people in Occupy are so dead set against telling people to organize and vote."

There is nothing in "Who We Are" that discourages participation in elections. Am I missing something?

[zenmischief]

What is this about silencing Sugar? Can someone summarize what happened there?

[Realer]

We dont say any one to not to vote. As far as, we are looking issues and structure
more in depth. We believe, we need a system that will serve the best interest of the 99% and by the people.