Today, 12pm at the state capitol in Des Moines, Ia began the first general assembly of the Occupy Des Moines/Iowa movement.
I made a point to be there early and even brought my two sons. At first it seemed like very few people would be there, but many people showed up right
at noon.
I snapped some pics and have some to share with ATS. I do have a few videos but will have to edit and upload later.
There was a great variety of all ages, colors, backgrounds and political ideologies. Many local "celebrity" members of the media were in attendance as
well.
The media was out in force, with many of the local stations attending and people such as myself that not only came to support, but to help spread the
word.
There were even some great musicians!
Ironically. just one block west of the capitol was a food festival taking place. The streets were littered with corporate advertisements and only
provided a clear example of the daily infiltration the corporations and banks have. It could not have been more fitting
When I first arrived, there was a man handing out the "Declaration of the Occupation of New York City" that set a general overview of the issues
causing the occupation. There was also a few people handing out copies of "The Militant" newspaper. This is a self-proclaimed socialist workers paper
that talks about the struggles of the working American.
In light of such people in attendance, the first order on the agenda, which passed unanimously, was to separate the Occupy movement from any political
or social movement, such as the Militant.
The assembly voted on a time to begin the occupation and then proceeded to vote and organize supplies and meeting agenda. I managed to become part of
a committee to organize foo, water and I will be donating tents and some other supplies.
Overall, this was a great meeting! People of all backgrounds came together to show their support for such a movement and it was completely peaceful.
There was not a cop, or even capitol security anywhere in sight.
Please show your support for a peaceful protest against that which you disagree, and take part in the process. That is what the system is designed for
and I am glad that I got to take part. Now I am off to load the truck and take supplies to those who are able to Occupy.
Peace and bless those who participate!
edit on 9-10-2011 by sheepslayer247 because: (no reason given)