Perhaps I've missed it, but there is one critically important aspect of the OWS movement that hasn't been (apparently) commented on. I think it's actually the most compelling.
I'm a big fan of direct, simple messaging. the 99% vs. 1% is fantastic messaging. But why is that important? It's so simple, we should have thought of it years ago.
It's the first time I've seen a strong counter-argument to the Republican "Real Americans" positioning. It's been great for them. It's what generates a huge proportion of their vote totals. "Real Americans" vote Republican. Because, we can't have those liberal East/West Coasters taking your guns away, or letting gays ruin your marriage, etc. etc. ad nauseum.
The fact is that for roughly 99% of us, this economy starts at bad and ends at worse. Even for those getting by, getting by ain't what it used to be.
So by all means, let's talk about what it means to be part of the 99%. It unites us, across so many differences. It clarifies, because there's no bigger priority than choosing what kind of economic future we have.
To have a future, for middle class, working class, and want-to-work class people everywhere, the playing field must be level, the economy must be reset, any and all measures that create sustainable business and job opportunities must be supported.
Or all 99% of us can watch things get worse for us, and better for the 1%.
This MUST be the message that takes center stage. Whose interests are supported and protected by which party, and which candidates?
Because this is about a choice.
I'm choosing the 99%.