Just got back from Occupy Oakland. I was there from Noon till around 3pm. Here are some first impressions from the early shift, I figure I'll post this so folks can get a visual feel for what it's like down there. Generally just amazing to have the streets closed with so many inspiring, peaceful and beautiful people, and lots of solidarity from businesses and workers.
When I got out of BART, first thing I was greeted by was this.
Several blocks on Broadway between 13th and 15th were closed. At 14th Street a stage was set up with speakers and a dense crowd gathered around.
As I've said before, just being able to walk in the street without cars feels like a total revolution to me, a liberation of sorts.
Having face to face interaction with people is the backbone of democracy, and I just love how it brings folks together, talking and discussing the things that matter.
A lot of great statements were made, by the people...
as well as by some banks...
there were ironworkers...
and teenagers...
and smaller ones...
Very fun and creative yet poignant stuff. The creativity is what really elevates and lifts everyone up, while driving home deeper messages...
all under the banner of
There were marches throughout the day peeling off...
I heard some windows were smashed at a Wells Fargo, but I didn't see it and I appreciate that the Chronicle reported it the way it should be reported, as a small minority of people.
I came away with impressions of a joyful and purposeful celebration of the human values that 99% of us hold... (and btw, I love this sign, "This is not a protest, this is a process!)
Just wanted to post this real quickly, I'll have to run pretty soon, but I hope the march to the Port of Oakland this evening will be as determined and joyful as the events of this afternoon.