Welcome login | signup
Language en es fr
We are the 99 percent

An Open Letter to the Mainstream English Media, From Montreal

Posted 11 years ago on May 27, 2012, 1:54 a.m. EST by OccupyWallSt

Written and published at Translating the printemps érable

Thank you; you are a little late to the party, and you are still missing the mark a lot of the time, but in the past few days, you have published some not entirely terrible articles and op-eds about what’s happening in Quebec right now. Welcome to our movement.

Some of you have even started mentioning that when people are rounded up and arrested each night, they aren’t all criminals or rioters. Some of you have admitted that perhaps limiting our freedom of speech and assembly is going a little bit too far. Some of you are no longer publishing lies about the popular support that you seemed to think our government had. Not all of you, mind you, but some of you are waking up.

That said, here is what I have not seen you publish yet: stories about joy; about togetherness; about collaboration; about solidarity. You write about our anger, and yes, we are angry. We are angry at our government, at our police and at you. But none of you are succeeding in conveying what it feels like when you walk down the streets of Montreal right now, which is, for me at least, an overwhelming sense of joy and togetherness.

News coverage of Quebec almost always focuses on division: English vs. French; Quebec-born vs. immigrant; etc. This is the narrative that has shaped how people see us as a province, whether or not it is fair. But this is not what I feel right now when I walk down the street. At 8pm, I rush out of the house with a saucepan and a ladle, and as I walk to meet my fellow protesters, I hear people emerge from their balconies and the music starts. If you do not live here, I wish I could properly convey to you what it feels like; the above video is a start. It is magic. It starts quietly, a suggestion here and there, and it builds. Everybody on the street begins to smile. I get there, and we all—young and old, children and students and couples and retirees and workers and weird misfits and dogs and, well, neighbours—we all grin the widest grins you have ever seen while dancing around and making as much noise as possible. We are almost ecstatic with the joy of letting loose like this, of voicing our resistance to a government that seeks to silence us, and of being together like this.

I have lived in my neighbourhood for five years now, and this is the most I have ever felt a part of the community; the lasting impact that these protests will have on how people relate to each other in the city is deep and incredible. I was born and raised in Montreal, and I have always loved this city, I have always told people that it is the best city in the world, but I have truly never loved it as much as I do right now.

The first night that I went to a casseroles (pots and pans) demonstration, at the centre of the action—little children ecstatically blowing whistles, a young couple handing out extra pots and pans to passers-by, a yoga teacher who paused his class to have everyone join—I saw a bemused couple, banging away, but seemingly confused about something. When we finished, they asked me, “how did you find us?” I replied that I had checked the map that had been posted online of rendez-vous spots, and theirs was the nearest to my house. “Last night we were all alone,” they told me. They had no idea it had been advertized online. This is what our revolution looks like: someone had clearly ridden around our neighbourhood, figured out where people were protesting, and marked them for the rest of us. This is a revolution of collaboration. Of solidarity.

The next night the crowd had doubled. Tonight we will be even more.

I come home from these protests euphoric. The first night I returned, I sat down on my couch and I burst into tears, as the act of resisting, loudly, with my neighbours, so joyfully, had released so much tension that I had been carrying around with me, fearing our government, fearing arrest, fearing for the future. I felt lighter. Every night, I exchange stories with friends online and find out what happened in their neighbourhoods. These are the kinds of things we say to each other: “if I loved my city any more right now, my heart would burst.” We use the word “love” a whole lot. We feel empowered. We feel connected. We feel like we are going to win.

Why don’t you write about this? This incredible feeling? Another example I can give you is this very blog. Myself and a few friends began it as a way of disseminating information in English about what was happening here in Quebec, and within hours, literally hours, volunteers were writing me offering to help. Every day, people submit translations to me anonymously; I have no idea who they are, they just want to do something. They come from everywhere. They translate what they think is important to get out there into the world. People email me corrections, too. They email me advice. They email me encouragement. This blog runs on solidarity and utter human kindness.

This is what Quebec looks like right now. Every night is teargas and riot cops, but it is also joy, laughter, kindness, togetherness, and beautiful music. Our hearts are bursting. We are so proud of each other; of the spirit of Quebec and its people; of our ability to resist, and our ability to collaborate.

Why aren’t you writing about this? Does joy not sell as well as violence? Does collaboration not sell as well as confrontation? You can have your cynicism; our revolution is sincere.

Sincerely,

The Administrator of Translating the printemps érable.

montreal ggi

102 Comments

102 Comments


Read the Rules
[-] 4 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

BRILLIANT ! A Truly Inspiring Read !! Solidarity !!!

Vive Les Occupants et Les Citoyens ...

pax, amor et lux ...

[-] 2 points by grenouillard (2) 11 years ago

Perhaps the most moving letter I have seen written on what is going on now in Montreal is this one above. I have been living in Montreal for 46 years and I have to be frank: we don't know where we are heading except it will not be "more of the same". What this letter describes is not only a feeling of solidarity, of togetherness, even if there is a lot of that in it, it is also a feeling of empowerment for people who, so far, felt utterly powerless when governments (any government for that matter) dictated something, anything. You have to see the video where the police is actually routed by a completely peaceful mob to realize that something, somewhere, broke down: the fear. And fearless people is the last thing any government wants to confront.

I know one of the guys who was tear-gased in Victoriaville. He is what I cannot described in other words: an incredibly lovable neo-anarchist. Mind you the anarchy he described to me is completely at 180° to what you probably think anarchism is since the term was long ago high-jacked by people who found it convenient for hiding their own violent agenda and plain banditry. For him (he is a quiet, soft spoken prof at the University du Québec à Montréal), anarchism was always about the reduction of state coercion to the minimum required for a functioning state. That is the elimination of superfluous coercion is paramount if one wants people to escape the unnecessary unhappiness and downright hardship of misused power. The Charest's government produced an almost perfect example of why people are becoming anarchists in practice, even before knowing how to call themselves that way. Bill 78 is exactly that: an unnecessary generator of useless hardship, in other words, an abuse of power, and this is completely independent of whether tuition increases are or are not justified.

The above letter describes how the latest events, for a moment, are unifying Quebecers from all horizons in a completely new and unexpected way. No more Anglo vs Franco. Just that in itself is incredibly momentous. The traditional fault lines such as independantists vs federalists are completely blurred as well. And now the rest of the planet seems ready to resonate with Montreal.

For sure, things ain't what they used to be!

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

"For sure," you're right things ain't going to be the way they used to be. I have a daughter who went to McGill, and I fell in love with your city and its people on our many visits. You have only intensified my feelings. Thanks for your great comment. Solidarity

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

That was a great comment, and very enlightening. The world has truly awoken. Thank You.

[-] 2 points by ghostrevolutionary (4) 11 years ago

Thank you for the much needed message of inspiration in this blog. We salute and stand in solidarity with the students in Montreal.

[-] 2 points by Coinyer101 (25) 11 years ago

What an awesome post. I posted the Link at the Huffington-Post website where I have over 5500 fans and friends. Am already receiving heartfelt replies....., solidarity, Montreal!!

[Removed]

[Removed]

[-] 1 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Great, keep up the good work.

[-] 2 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

A true message of hope for humanity in showing that the inherent goodness of the many will overcome the avarice of the few.

[Removed]

[Removed]

[-] 2 points by bearpaws (2) 11 years ago

I am so proud again to be a canadian and to have roots in quebec. Yes this is beautiful and necessary. community, sustainability, equitability, these things are of value and so needed if we are to be able to move forward out of this misery, degradation and exploitation for the benefit of the few.

[-] 1 points by MarkNC (3) from Greensboro, NC 11 years ago

Regardless, I believe in Occupy. I believe the quieted, silented voice is the one best shouted from the roof-tops. I believe that all our genes have taken us down this sad road (gimme, gimme); but I have hope that in all this, the genes for human survivability will engage. I hope that the genes of Occupy will be passed to all future generations.

[-] 1 points by ThemAhdi (6) 11 years ago

For the Greater Good, a Better Tomorrow and our Utopia....GOD Speed

[-] 1 points by ThemAhdi (6) 11 years ago

The voice from someone whom had seen the light and awaken. Passionate and graceful.

[Removed]

[-] 1 points by cristinaaviles (1) 11 years ago

why not use "do hear the people sing"from the Miss as the anthem for all the humans of the new world........................

[-] 1 points by awden (1) 11 years ago

thank you beautiful for posting with such honesty, determination, and touching tenderness. You have given a gift to all Canadians and we love you for it. Even though we can't all be with you physically I hope you can feel our sincerest and heartfelt solidarity. With your courage, commitment, devotion and love...you are showing us the way.!

[-] 1 points by Misaki (893) 11 years ago

Honestly? If this was a predictions market, it would be (past?) time to go short on OWS.

Just like Obama, OWS started out with a lot of hope. But the #1 problem in the US, and many other countries, continues to be jobs.

If you want unemployment to be fixed, vote here: http://the99percentvotes.com/idea/US95

[-] 1 points by rickMoss (435) 11 years ago

Hold everything and stop what you're doing until you understand this:

"We Are Free!" http://WeAreFree.osixs.org

www.SaveTheWorldNow.osixs.org The Revolution has started!!!

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Viva free education - society investing in itself.

Viva universal health care - knocked the stuffing right out of for profit system abuse.

[-] 1 points by garak99 (2) 11 years ago

I support all in Quebec fighting for economic sensibility in university. I Love the City of Montreal one of my favorite places on earth.

[-] -2 points by RealityTime (-224) 11 years ago

Yes, more subsidy. These terribly oppressed middle class college kids should get yet more subsidy on the back of taxpayers, many of whom didn't attend college. This is how Greece happened.

[-] 3 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

No "Greece happened" by corrupt politicians who entered into corrupt agreements with the corrupt big banks, that the people knew nothing about. This happened more than ten years ago, and the problem manifested itself in that time

[-] -2 points by RealityTime (-224) 11 years ago

It's a social welfare state run wild. Huge numbers working for government, idiotic and impossible retirement packages, a population that thinks it's free and mass cheats on taxes... sure, bad banks, bad. Even now, the government employee unions still don't get it and think the borrowed money bubble machine can just be turned back on. They broke themselves.

[-] 1 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Are the northern European countries who have similar social programs to Greece as in as much trouble. No they are not. The fact is that Greece had a controllable problem if it had been dealt with more than ten years ago. The citizens of Greece did not even know about this secret agreemnet that their corrupt politicians entered into with those nasty bankers. For the most part, the economic problems that many ciites and states are having throughout the world are due to the corrupt bank practices that were in place since 2000. The 'fix' that neoliberal polititians and bankers want has more to do with furthering their agenda in the midst of a crisis....and that is a tactic that they are infamous for.

[-] 0 points by RealityTime (-224) 11 years ago

Not yet. But trends in most countries are very bad. Yeah, bad bankers, bad. Turn the bubble machine back on, says the union. But that's the problem with a pandering welfare state: People really do start to think it's all free and they're in disbelief when the end game is upon them.

Nasty bankers, sure, not like the hordes of government employees retiring at 50 and rampant tax evasion. LOL.

[-] 1 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Nothing is ever black or white, i realize. But when you have the disparity in wealth that we have in this country while at the same time we go on and spend oodles of money on defense, wars, and giving tax breaks to the rich, something is wrong. It becomes a question of priorities, so I will side with the people.

[-] 1 points by Renneye (3874) 11 years ago

Yes...something is very wrong....and Catherine Austin Fitts tells us exactly why its happening from her experience as Assistant Secretary of Housing during George H.W. Bush. No-one else has come out with first hand information like this...

http://occupywallst.org/forum/assistant-sec-of-housing-catherine-austin-fitts-bl/

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Thanks, this explains the disconnect between Wall St, and Main St very well. So far, I have only watched the first part, but I will watch the other parts later.

[-] 0 points by RealityTime (-224) 11 years ago

Funny, but our "disparity" of wealth is less than many places and our poor remain the envy of billions.

Liberals have an odd sense of tax breaks. So, what "tax break" do the "rich" get? Is it because rates are lower than the Clinton watermark. So, everything at the Clinton level belongs to government and anything less is a tax break? We start with it all belonging to government and what you keep somehow becomes a gift from government to you?

Nearly half the public gets their federal government for free. Maybe that's a tax break we should take a look at.

[-] 2 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Look I have done my thing in life,. I don't need a lecture from you who wants to keeep fighting the left vs, right battle. If you want to compare our country to developing ones, that's up to you. Look at the neoliberal policies in this country, and then check out the trend line for the average American. I will continue to make my comparisons to the history of this country not Bangladesh.

[-] 0 points by RealityTime (-224) 11 years ago

First it belongs to the people that earned it, then the government takes a slice, not the other way around. Tax breaks: Sure, we should be so lucky that you allowed us to have some of what we earned.

If you're so troubled by disparity, maybe you leftists should think about immigration. Want fewer poorer people? Have the brains to stop importing them.

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

A person who works hard...does better than me , no problem, really! The problem is people have become enriched (money-wise anyway, but not morally so) through a rigged system, and that system has been rigged, and corrupt for more than thirty years. This has nothing to do with left/right, but rather right/wrong, and I believe deep down, you know it. Until our government answers to the people, and not these self-serving speceal interests, this will continue, and so will Occupy.

[-] 1 points by RealityTime (-224) 11 years ago

Well, good. So you must be against public employee unions too. Yes, let's end the rigged game of entrenched interests and return government to the people.

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

We can agree on' returning the government to the people' but for very different reasons.

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

when my labor gives money to shareholders

that is taxing

[-] 2 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

Exactly MattLHolck,Google in Australia made a $1.1 billion profit in Australia last year and paid,wait for it,under$75 thousand in tax.

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

smashing

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Most of your comments are to the point, and very accurate. I like that.

[-] 1 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

A man of few words, but wise ones. Matt wastes words like a sniper wastes bullets.

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

I admire writers who can say a lot in few words like Lincoln did with the Gettysburg Address. I think Matt might have him beat though. lol

[-] 1 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

It is a talent. Perhaps he's a screenwriter. Unlike novels, screenwriters are skilled in using the absolute minimum amount of words necessary to convey the image. It's a prerequisite for successful screenplays.

[-] 1 points by Renneye (3874) 11 years ago

Maybe he's a disabled genius. If typing is difficult, by virtue of necessity, he has to pick his words with precision. Just a thought. Although I like your perception better.

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

You have a chance of being right........I'm imitating.... but wait that's brighton...who is another man of few words. :-)

[-] 1 points by Yaron (1) 11 years ago

Beautiful blog! We are featuring it on FB via the Petition for more Positive & Constructive News: http://facebook.com/PetitionforMorePositiveNews

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Right - ON. I am with you. I think you could benefit by an approach I am trying to take with the government of the USA. I believe Canada could prosper by a similar approach. Not all of my letter may be Germaine to your situation but I believe there is a common cause to share. Any way please let me share with you a petition letter I sent off today:

To President Obama: You can put an end to indefinite detention. I urge you not to appeal the recent ruling by a federal court that makes it clear that indefinite detention violates the Constitution.

To My Senators: I urge you to stand with the Constitution and oppose indefinite detention during the debate on this year's NDAA.

Support the Constitution of the United States of America. Do not allow the interests of the greedy few destroy our society, our country, our world.

Set the justice department onto the real criminals - the white collar greedy criminals running rampant. Prosecute the economic criminals and put an end to the culture of white collar crime.

End strife in this country and then by extension the world.

Implement green technology and export it to the world. End strife over poisonous fossil fuel.

Green Tech.

This is where we should be going: Green Energy we have the technology we just need to use it. This is what I am talking about. A clean future to be implemented NOW!

http://www.hopewellproject.org/

http://ecat.com/

http://www.wired.com/magazine/2009/12/ff_new_nukes/all/1

FuelCell Energy http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=600

Export peace health and prosperity start here at home. Show the world that the USA is not hypocritical.

[Removed]

[-] -1 points by j0hnqd03 (-1) 11 years ago

In response to your comments - hopefully someone finds my rants useful :)

So-called elected officials don't give a damn about what we think. We can do all the urging we want, but money is the primary motivating factor in government, society, and is the root cause for most major problems we face today.

You'll never see Wall St go to jail because the US economy is only as good as their work makes it, unfortunately. In other words, Wall St runs the country. Elected officials are a subordinate dog and pony show that gives the sheep-like population false hope.

There's no money in green tech and that's why it will never materialize in the US. It's too efficient and sustainable for free market capitalism.

So, following their demented logic, the 99% should form a lobbying group and start bribing, like every other influential entity. :) Or, following real logic, we get rid of money entirely! If you like the idea of getting rid of money, please check out the Zeitgeist Movement and vote their documentaries up on Netfilix in order to spread the education.

signup.netflix.com/movie/Zeitgeist-Moving-Forward/70225009

[-] 1 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

We will not stoop to bribing anyone. We find it much more honorable to be out in the streets protesting, and in the parks educating people to the corrupt dynamics that have been in place for over thirty years. Green technology is not a choice, it is imperative if we value the lives of our children, and grandchildren. And for what it is worth, that is coming from a person who had a career in the marine petroleum industry, me.

[-] 1 points by jph (2652) 11 years ago

Thanks so much for taking the time and effort, to help your fellow 99%, who sadly do not have a working understanding of the french language. Even more sad, in my case, as my mothers side of the family is French, landing in America in the 1700s, and yet the only language I understand is English,. even more tragic as, my fathers side is Polish, so I am a Polish-Frenchman who only understands English! I did live in Montreal for a couple years, and it is indeed one of my favorite cities, amazing culture and people. Love and respect, never give up.

[+] -4 points by RealityTime (-224) 11 years ago

Yes, it's all just tragic. How, oh how, do you trudge on you brave soul?

[Removed]

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

"From Montreal to NYC education should be free." That was the chant that we used in the NYC Solidarity protest march Sunday night. Ironically I had two daughters in university in those two cities at one time in my life. That was a time when blue collar workers like me and their mother could afford to pay off two educations so their kids could go into the world debt free. I wonder how many of the men in blue who followed us will be able to do that today. ??? Solidarity Montreal/Quebec

[-] 0 points by davidsalay (11) 11 years ago

NYC students have faced rising student debt for far too long. The strike in Quebec symbolizes a struggle for a system that provides everyone equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Debt is slavery and education is the liberation that will help us win all our struggles. It is time to bring Quebec's infinite strike to the United States, starting in NYC.

We have created a Facebook page and Twitter to help us organize actions around NYC infinite strike Quebec solidarity marches, please like, follow, and share:

Tonight and every night, infinite student strike! Solidarity with students in Quebec and around the world. It is time to end debt. Washington Square Park at 8PM:

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/JDGC75

Twitter: http://bit.ly/ML0cM7

[-] 0 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

Where is this strange place, Quebec?

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Quebec, yes it is a strange place where people in droves get out in the streets because of tuition hikes, and the draconian Bill 78 which severely limits the right to protest. All this while the far more pernicious NDAA passes into law here without nearly a peep. Gee do you think we could learn from these Quebecois??

[-] 1 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

Probably would have by now if we were going to, the Right got a jump on things here with the “Think Tank” new speak. They control how people feel about things through the way they talk about them, mostly money is the key, and they have created a mindset within Americans that will take a multipoint attack to deal with. The first spear so to speak of course is the complete dismantling of the Republican Party, as long as the footmen of the 1% are writing policy we’re in trouble, so step One, remove the GOP, concurrent with that support the most wealth aware candidate for all dem spots in the primaries in a few cycles we own one of the big boys and then we can apply real pressure to repel Citizen’s United, NDAA and so on. Here’s a link that Matt put up:

http://votesmart.org/bill/votes/12790

If you look you will see for war Rs 192 yea, 3 nay; Ds 64 yea, 113 nay, no Rs no war.

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Yes, I have been connected to Project Vote Smart for years. As you know by now, we differ in where our energies should be put forth in this revolution. There will always be an opposition whether they are called republicans or not. We will never be able to crush them, but it should be our job to marginalize them by educating people on what their insidious agenda is. There are many good people who call themselves repubs. Those moderate repubs are the ones we need on our side. Anyway, I do not want this revolution watered down by making this another partisan battle. That is what THEY want, as then it will be controllable. I know that everyone cannot be out in the streets, but those who can't should support those that are, any way they possibly can. We should not give people the false hope that we can vote our way out of this mess.

[-] 1 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

I was mostly with you up to that "false hope" part, we disagree on what that is too I think, how about we agree on some common ground, here's my post from today:

http://occupywallst.org/forum/after-memorial-day-a-couple-of-links-about-war-it-/

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

I understand the tragic consequences of war, as much as one can who has never been a victim of it anyway. Our constant wars are probably my main concern here for reasons I would rather not share here. As much of a critic as I am, I reguarly donate to the wounded veterans. It is just my firm belief that by endorsing them on this forum, it takes away from the righteous, recalcitrant condemnation we should have for both parties. The problem is the neoliberal war agenda which encompasses both parties, hence I will continue to respectfully critciize you for promoting partisan politics on here, much in the same way that the poster illusions... did the other day with you.

[-] 2 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

I wish to achieve actual change you should present an actual reason you think pretending that removing the GOP from office is not only effective but necessary, why should we not apply ALL means at our hands including making people embarrassed to call themselves Republican?

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Considering the definition. Republicans - true Republicans - should be disowning the renegades in their midst - shunning them.

Republic - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic

A republic is a form of government in which the government is officially apportioned to the control of the people and thus a "public matter"


Considering the definition. Democrats - true Democrats - should be disowning the renegades in their midst - shunning them.

Democracy - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democracy

Democracy is an egalitarian form of government in which all the citizens of a nation together determine public policy, the laws and the actions of their state, ...


Common cause there is plenty.

Unite!!!!!!

[-] 1 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

Grover Norquist changed the Republican Party the one you speak of no longer exists.

http://video.pbs.org/video/2230582969

[-] -2 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Go for it FRF, as our fellow poster told you. It is a (somewhat) free country still. I will not sit idly by though while you try to politicize this movement by promoting partisan politics. It is my opinion that you would be better off on a Democrat forum. There is a reason why OWS is apolitical, and I agree with that reason.

[-] 1 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

By the same reasoning would you not be better at a anti-war forum?

My central concern is the concentration of wealth it was my understanding that was at the heart of OWS, if I am wrong please explain.

I know that we disagree with the method to be applied but we also disagree on the goal yours is to stop the war, mine is to address wealth and it's power in government, honestly which of us should post here?

I don't ask you not to post anti-war, instead I welcome it:

http://occupywallst.org/forum/after-memorial-day-a-couple-of-links-about-war-it-/

But that doesn't seem to interest you I don't know why.

[-] 2 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

LOL One of my main concerns here, yes are the wars. I also am fully aware of the scope of our struggle, both here, and globally though. This is a defiant revolution as it should be. By constantly promoting partisan politics within this OWS movement you are creating yet more divisions, and you are inadvertently doing a disservice to this struggle. You may feel that you know best, but in reality I believe it is the only way that you know how to fight this corrupt system, as like me, it is the only 'ring' that you have ever been in. I have an enormous amount of confidence in the mostly young, intelligent, people who are powering this movement. You obviously do not, as your tried before, impotent, prescription for success 'flies in the face' of the core of this movement. That is the difference between us.

[-] 1 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

As I believe you do a disevice to OWS by consistantly talking about reaching out, isn't that what Obama has been doing that got you mad in the first place, why reach out to mad dogs?

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Some of those "mad dogs," as you refer to them, are centrists/swing voters, hence they are reasonable people who simply do not share all of our ideas, and/or are unaware. We need them on our side. But by you constantly going after them in such a venomous way, you are denigrating this noble movement, and only promoting the very thing that we are trying to put behind us. You are making it more difficult to reach out to these people that we need. It is exactly that kind of vitriolic speech that helped get us to the point of having a totally dysfunctional government. And it is no less ugly whether it comes from the left or the right.

We will never be able to change the ethos in this country by continuing on the same path that brought us to the deleterious point in history that we are in today. Can't you see that??? This is a noble movement, and we should treat it as such. We should not get in the 'gutter' with them, just the 'streets.'

[-] 0 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

Many of those reasonable people voted for the Iraq War and NDAA just like Obama, maybe you have a point.

[-] 1 points by SlacktivistsMakeMeSick (-22) 11 years ago

What in the hell is "NADD"?

[-] 1 points by SlacktivistsMakeMeSick (-22) 11 years ago

No clown, that is NOT "NADD". And I didn't direct the question to you anyway.

http://occupywallst.org/article/open-letter-mainstream-english-media-montreal/#comment-749730

[-] 0 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

thanks

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Had to reply here. No, I don't think i am less open, but i do feel a real sense of betrayal, more than most people, I'm sure. I am truly saddened by him You know from previous threads that i have written here that my dad went to MLKs rally...i went to Obama's inauguration, and you remember the rest. The script was not suppose to read like it has.

[-] 1 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

so you feel more open towards the "center right" but all out against the center-left Obama? because your feelings were hurt?

I sort of get what you mean Nader hurt my feelings when he helped elect Bush

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

I assume that is your version of sarcasm. But you do have a point, as we all make mistakes. This movement has got to be about healing, and redemption....and yes I know, you do not hear those words much alongside DEFIANT.

[-] 1 points by factsrfun (8310) from Phoenix, AZ 11 years ago

you just seem less open when you speak of Obama

[-] -1 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Your attempted interpertation of my beliefs is amusing, and clearly disingenuous. I do understand that you are trying to fit me into one of the categories that you have set up in your mind. When you are a free spirit like me, and just go for what you believe is right, that will be difficult for you to do.

Disappointment/hurt feelings have reigned over our elections for far too long. The voting booth is not the answer for the systemic change that we need, not now anyway. Please read the comment on the top of the page here from the guy that lives in Montreal, and pay special attention to the last paragraph

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Really does not matter how an individual identifies them self - their actions will tell you pro-humanity or pro greed corruption and crime.

To identify a troll - look at issues that benefit all of society - and see them standing in the way.

To identify a troll look at issues that benefit special interest groups - quite often to the detriment of society/humanity/world - and see them cheering on the issue for the special interest.

[-] 1 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Yes, i have my own little way of identifying suspected trolls. We all have to realize that we are now into the 2nd generation of trolls. They have become a lot more insidious that the early ones. Still though it is difficult to tell them apart from people who have honest differences, so mostly I do not attack them as being trolls unless, I am quite sure.

[-] 0 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Good call - they generally identify themselves. Sooner or later the mask will slip. Hell often times they will make a series of good comments to gain support and then go off the track in their own way, some subtle some not so much.

[-] 1 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

I have them classified into four categories which i am reluctant to share here, but even for those that fit into one of those classifications, they may not be trolls. Even i could fit into one of them. lol One cat another poster here came up with in a pm, and I endorse, is the "concerned troll" who constantly questions OWS tactics, and in so doing helps create divides between us.

[-] 0 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

It can be hard to tell the difference between an honest questioner and an attacker at times. Especially if the honest questioner is a fairly closed minded individual. Though eventually a true attacker will make it obvious. In the meantime good information can be shared or rehashed until the attacker removes the mask.

[-] 0 points by occupiersupporter (0) 11 years ago

Je t'aime! Solidarité!

[Removed]

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

Like in Montreal, we here channel our anger to the corrupt system. We share our love with the victims of this system.

[Removed]

[Removed]

[-] 0 points by CarlosFenito (36) 11 years ago

No! They just print the money to cover stuff! It all works out fine!

[-] -2 points by BetsyRoss (-744) 11 years ago

In the Montreal video, the people look kind and friendly and acknowledge those around them... in the US videos OWS protestors look angry, hostile and suspicious. Some of them even wear masks so you can't tell who they are.

In the Montreal video we see people walking peacefully in their own neighborhoods simply banging on pots and pans and smiling at each other...in the US videos we see OWS protestors squatting in neighborhoods they don't live in and carrying insulting signs and screaming obscenities at local law enforcement and others who disagree with them.

In the Montreal video it's easy to see and feel love because the people in the video are acting in a loving manner while also expressing their solidarity. In the US OWS videos there is screaming and pushing and chaos-things never associated with love or mutual respect.

[-] 2 points by ghostrevolutionary (4) 11 years ago

If you watch all of the Occupy Montreal feeds you will see that they are not always engaging in loving peaceful marches, and their contact with the police is certainly not always positive to say the least. I've seen quite a lot of violence in their posts - mainly directed at the students by the police. Conversely, the same is true if you watch the many US Occupy feeds. We are angry but we are not always violent or screaming though we have good reason to be hostile and suspicious. The masks for some started out as a symbol. Now for many, they have become necessary as the US government has seen fit to make targets of Occupiers. Because the students in Montreal do not pose a threat to corporate interests in the US, the media can afford to portray them in a positive light, and I'm glad that's the case because they deserve it. The story is very different here. The bigger the Occupy movement grows in the US, the stronger our message to the people becomes to wake up and see what is being done to our citizens, how their rights are being destroyed along with their environment - all for profit - the more the media are pushed to portray us all as snarling and violent, or at best disorganized and ineffectual. Perception is everything - seriously.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Tokyo Rose or Berlin Betty?

Qvestchion du you du intherviews wis ze prhotesthors thake phichtures fhor tzeir fhamaliez?

[-] 2 points by Nevada1 (5843) 11 years ago

LOL

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Good morning Nevada1.

[-] 1 points by Nevada1 (5843) 11 years ago

Good morning DKA. How was the wind storm?

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Hey Nevada1 - I survived the storm fairly well I have not looked at any local news coverage as yet - so I don't know yet how well the area fared.

The Torrent of rain likely would have been a disaster in some of your areas - we had flash flood warnings out for many areas across the State. Came down in buckets off and on all night long.

Sorry it took so long to reply. I keep losing my internet connection.

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

OK Betsy, I finally get the chance to reply to you. When I first read your comment, I was was at an Occupy Astoria picnic. I was tempted tap out a quick answer to you on my cell phone, but decided to wait before I replied to you. Anyway, I do agree with you that the protesters in this video did seem like a happy 'lot,' compared to the protesters i have been with.

The reclacitrant to the system, Occupy people at this picnic also seemed quite happy too, but I suspect it was because of all the great food that we had there. Having a pseudonym like Betsy Ross, I would imagine that you would have been disappointed that they did not have any hot dogs though. Ever since I watched that movie The Great Outdoors where Dan Aykroid's character asks John Candy's character, "You know what they're made of Chet?," I have been reluctant to eat them myself. lol Then when I quit drinking, i went completely off of them. lol Anyway when this Jersey Shore boy tried to donate to help with the cost of all the food, they refused to take my money. I thanked them profusely for their graciousness, and the good conversations and told them that I looked forward to working with them in The Occupy Town Square group that I am affiliated with. Then off to the Manhattan bound N train for me.

When I arrived at Bryant Park, I definitely noticed that some of the protesters there looked a bit more bedraggled looking than most of them in Astoria, and especially in comparison to all all the tourists there who were dressed in their 'Sunday best.' I realized though, that was because many of them come from all parts of the country, and sacrifice so much to be there, in terms of sleeping at churches, not eating as well, and in general not being able to enjoy the comforts that we have. I admire them greatly. Anway we clandestinely chose to disperse 'civilian-like' from there and meet at the corner of Lexington and 42nd St., where we then decided to meet up again at 44th, and Lex. All this was done so as to avoid having a NYPD escort at least for a while.

I will admit that it was difficult for me to see if my fellow protesters were "kind and friendly" looking as i found myself at the back of this fast paced march, along with most of the NYPD, who clearly looked unhappy! lol It was not until we reached Rockefeller Center that I caught up with my fellow protesters. They did not look unhappy there, but clearly they were defiant as I was. We chanted from Montreal to NYC, education must be free." That chant was particularly ironic to me since I had two daughters going to university in those two cities at the same time, at one point in my life. In fact one daughter graduated magna cum laude from Fordham Lincoln Center campus and won a special award in criminal physycology, only about ten blocks away from there. From there we gathered several blocks away at one of those public outdoor park-like places that had a beautiful pool, and fountain for down time, and good conversation.

We were surrounded by the NYPD, so knowing I had a captive audience I politely asked several groups of them at different times, 'Do you believe that you will be able to pay off two educations on your blue collar salary, so that your kids will be able to go out into the world debt-free, as my wife and I did.' While some did turn away, others did not, and I could see the answer in their eyes, and one even quietly thanked me. That's the truth Betsy, and for you not to be able to see it see what is driving this revolution is remarkable to me.

[-] 0 points by Sammyseed (12) 11 years ago

Essential Occupy Reading http://pastebin.com/SAqnwD8y

[Removed]

[Removed]

[Removed]

[Removed]

[Removed]

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Viva free education - society investing in itself.

Viva universal health care - knocked the stuffing right out of for profit system abuse.

[-] -1 points by ChicagoJohn (-2) 11 years ago

I'm sure you've read this before, about the criticism of the Occupy movement, so I'll repeat it here: Occupy protestors are more concerned about protesting then they are about knowing what they are protesting about.

You've proven it here. In the entirety of your essay, you never actually give a solution. Heck, you never even give what you want changed.

You romance the protest.

Which is fine. There are a lot of people out there who love the romance of a good protest. But if you want to be taken even vaguely seriously as someone who has an issue that they're passionate about - rather then just someone seeking a cause - start talking about the cause. ...And that starts with having a cause.

Anger, without purpose, is juvenile. When you look around you and see so many young faces, you must wonder to yourself why there aren't older faces around. Yes? It isn't because middle aged and older folks are thrilled with everything. Its because you haven't given them a reason to join you... other then "I'm angry!"

I read this post because I thought it would contain insight as to "why" the media should cover you. The impression that I've been given is that you loved joining in with a bunch of other people in a loud, fun, boisterous display. Its romantic. But its not based in logic.

[-] 2 points by MrMtl (2) from Montreal, QC 11 years ago

Unfortunately your comment is based on little more then what you have heard, considering you seem to be from Chicago(ChicagoJohn). I live and work in Montreal and have been a part of the nightly protest and I can tell you the crowd consists of every age category and walk of life, families children, everybody( on May 26th there were approx. 200 000ppl strong in the streets). Please youtube Grand tintarmarre(french) or manif de cassorole montreal(french). As for the cause, its pretty clear if you did your research. This movement is now about solidarity against 'bill 78' first and foremost, which was coined by the New York Times as "draconian Bill" and is a direct abuse of power by our government against the democratic right to protest or assembly.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/24/opinion/our-not-so-friendly-northern-neighbor.html?_r=1

If you don't get what the movement is about, do your research then base your opinion on that, otherwise ask a question so that you don't get outed. This movement is has basically got the government changing there hardline tone to the student tuition increase and this draconian bill 78, pretty proactive means of democracy if you ask me, and a worth while cause.....the media should cover us because we're keeping the root of democracy strong in a place that is know for it, and so we should, government is for the ppl, not the other way around....

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

That was a great reply. I was in a protest march in Solidarity for the people of Montreal in NYC Sunday night.

[-] 1 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

No we are not more interested in protesting than knowing what we are protesting about. We do fully realize that the systemic change that we need will not happen from within this rotten political system, not anytime soon anyway. We believe our political, and financial systems have lost their legitmacy, and we will no longer be dupes. The downward slide of this country is obvious to us. If you cannot see that, your eyes are not open. Last this essay was not meant ot be an informative one, rather it was an inspirational one for those who know what this is about.

If you want to understand the Occupy movement, you should search it out yourself. I have no time though for people who have preconceived notions, and who are offensive. I will say this though. For starters, we want a political system that is representative of the people, not corrupt special interests. We also want the rule of law to be applied fairly to all. ie. the bankers That is not so unreasonable, is it?

[-] 1 points by TheIllusionCalledMoney (56) 11 years ago

It still tickles me pink when people still say that Occupy doesn't know why they are protesting or what about. Here's one of the ever increasing amount of brilliant goofs which captures the essence of the still very asleep, and MSM-controled sheeple: http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&client=opera&hs=C7h&sa=X&rls=en&channel=suggest&biw=1206&bih=599&tbm=isch&prmd=imvns&tbnid=6-xXZ6KKwurd6M:&imgrefurl=http://www.tynansanger.com/&docid=YxvP_0zDMzfSEM&imgurl=http://www.tynansanger.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/they-dont-seem-to-know.jpeg&w=576&h=644&ei=jpXDT9XMMauu0AGxvenFCg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=89&vpy=119&dur=3843&hovh=237&hovw=212&tx=157&ty=92&sig=105832794016617135701&page=1&tbnh=120&tbnw=107&start=0&ndsp=19&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0,i:73

And yes, Occupy has solutions. But first, they MUST begin with complete non-compliance and non-cooperation with the existing systems that are about, I'd say, 100.0000000% controlled by the ruling elite. Is there anyone still alive on this planet that still thinks that politicians, the MSM, our education system, the medical industry,the legal system, etc. etc. etc. are not completely controlled by the trillionaire- bankers who run the world?

Oh yea, I got a good idea: Let's pass some legislation that will "fix" that. And let's get the Occupy movement to make it one of their "demands". Note to the ruling elite: If you want to string the 99% along for another, say 50 years or so, just promise them "reform" to the existing systems. They're so zombified by reality TV, prozac, our pathetic education system, our fascist politicians and the like that they will buy it hook, line and sinker. So again, just "promise them reform" and you'll get em to do what you want for decades more. Just keep it quiet..... very quiet.....

OK: The real answer, in the form of a question: Why would you make demands of tyrants and thieves? Solutions can only be arrived at by first abandoning the existing system which is completely rotten to the core.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Wrong question.

You should be asking:

Why not vote out all of the corrupted politicians?

Show us the way Wisconny - kick walker and crony's to the curb.

Shout fuck you to manipulative money corrupting our governments.

June 5th - WHOO-HOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Money OUT - People IN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[-] 1 points by TheIllusionCalledMoney (56) 11 years ago

DKA - go for it my friend. The entire system is controlled now though. Fair elections? Yikes, that's a scary thought. Bush Gore who? Fair coverage of patriots like Ron Paul. Imagine? Again, more power to ya if you believe. Just WAAAAAAAAY too much corruption out there for me to believe compliance with the existing political system (or any other "system" we have) will make a spot of difference. Remember, one of the favorite tool's of the elitist globalist is "democracy" - giving us the illusion of choice every four years. Been working like a charm for decades now, as the sheeple continue to "debate" one candidate vs. the other when they're both controlled by the same globalist cabal. By the way, if any candidate that was honestly sincere about doing the right thing managed to somehow sneak in under the radar, do you really think that TPTW would not, er, do something about it? Yea, I'm sure if Ron Paul got in Ben Bernake, the Fed and the controllers of the world wouldn't have a problem with his idea to shut down the Fed and end the most criminal and profitable operation on the planet. Peace~

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Exactly why the movements against greed corruption and crime were born. Not just in New York - but across the USA and around the world.

Now is the time of the most intense struggle. Awakening the greater portion of the population.

This is happening in spite of the MSM coverage Black-out and their propaganda machine lies and distractions.

The truth is becoming impossible to ignore miss not understand.

The corrupt are getting their shorts all in a knot and are really becoming visible and obvious.

The people have been cajoled to opt-out for decades.

I do believe that the tide is turning.

Change is taking place the world is waking up.

We move forward.

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

I completely agree with that too. I also appreciate your keeping on the high road with people that disagree with you. You're a shining example of an defiant OWS gentleman. :-)

[-] 0 points by Odin (583) 11 years ago

I'll second that!

[-] 1 points by reemo (5) 11 years ago

I think you missed the point. The love that is spreading in these neighborhoods and among these people IS the solution. The first step to addressing such widespread and endemic corruption and fraud in human government/money/profit systems is to recognize each other as the value worth saving. The 'cause' is so broad at this point to attempt to address individual issues is illogical, divisive and unhelpful. First we must acknowledge the depth and breadth of the problem. Lack of respect for all life and for nature, for the rights of people and living beings and the first step in that is the re-awakening of the heart and the soul.