Forum Post: A Simple Start

A Simple Start I have been reading a number of forum posts ranging in topics and opinions that are generally concerned with what this occupation across the globe is all about. There have been concerns about our movement’s message either missing an overall point, being skewed toward the political left, and lacking insight into the personal responsibility needed for change. I would like to present an idea that would address these challenges. We need a post or page for Grievances, Demand(s), and a Pledge. The Grievances should be sourced and referenced slights that the large majority of Americans and the world have felt and been impacted by negatively. A database of information needs to be collected in order to back contributions that span the disillusioned political spectrum. This list was initially put forward, but it has no sources to back its claims: http://occupywallst.org/forum/first-official-release-from-occupy-wall-street/

The Demand(s) should be a simple actionable item that the majority can get behind as a starting point of the implementation of the popular political will. This demand needs to be openly debated and discussed, with all threads of thought being archived. My personal opinion is to begin with some sort of campaign finance reform to promote the possibility of the people regaining political power to then continue this movement, although I'd love to hear other opinions. So far, two sites are doing a decent job of collectively working to determine what these demands would be: http://coupmedia.org/the-sovereign-peoples-movement.html http://www.occupyanddemand.org/ These ideas need to be presented along with cogent arguments from various viewpoints on why the favored demand/action is our first goal, which I believe means it must be winnable through protesting techniques.

The Pledge should be self-reflective, inclusive of dissident opinions, critically aware, and empowered by the global movement of human decency toward a sustainable future for all.

These three aspects can be combined to ensure that this movement is not co-opted by any one group and instead remains a movement of the people. Please let me know how this trifecta of statements sounds to you and if you’d make any changes to the general idea. I’d also love to begin the necessary discussions and collection of information that will form them, so any help, comments, and thoughts are greatly appreciated!