Occupy Wall Street Movement

Definition

The Occupy Wall Street Movement was a grassroots protest movement that emerged in 2011 in New York City, primarily aimed at addressing economic inequality and the influence of corporate money in politics. It became a symbol of the broader discontent with the financial system, highlighting issues such as wealth disparity and social injustice, and utilized public spaces like Zuccotti Park to foster dialogue and activism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The movement began on September 17, 2011, and quickly gained traction both nationally and globally, inspiring similar protests around the world.
2. Occupy Wall Street utilized social media extensively for organizing, outreach, and sharing information, making it one of the first movements to harness digital platforms so effectively.
3. Zuccotti Park became a central site for the protests, serving as a hub for assemblies, workshops, and discussions that fostered community engagement.
4. The movement's slogan 'We are the 99%' became widely recognized and encapsulated its core message regarding economic inequality.
5. Although the encampments were dismantled by authorities in late 2011, the ideas and discussions sparked by Occupy Wall Street have continued to influence activism focused on social and economic justice.

Review Questions

• How did the Occupy Wall Street Movement utilize public space to facilitate its goals?
  • The Occupy Wall Street Movement strategically used public space, particularly Zuccotti Park, as a physical gathering point for activists and supporters. This allowed for direct interaction among participants and served as a venue for discussions, workshops, and decision-making through assemblies. By occupying this space, the movement emphasized its message of collective action against economic inequality while creating a visible presence in the heart of New York City.
• In what ways did the slogan 'We are the 99%' shape public perception of economic inequality during the Occupy Wall Street Movement?
  • 'We are the 99%' became a powerful rallying cry that clearly articulated the divide between the wealthy elite and everyday people facing economic struggles. This slogan helped frame public discourse around wealth disparity, making it easier for individuals to connect their personal experiences with broader societal issues. As a result, it galvanized support for systemic change and brought attention to topics like corporate influence in politics and financial regulation.
• Evaluate the impact of decentralized organizing within the Occupy Wall Street Movement on contemporary activism.
  • Decentralized organizing played a crucial role in shaping how the Occupy Wall Street Movement functioned, allowing various groups to pursue their initiatives independently while contributing to a unified cause. This model has influenced contemporary activism by demonstrating that non-hierarchical structures can mobilize diverse voices and foster grassroots participation. As movements today continue to embrace similar organizational frameworks, they benefit from increased adaptability and resilience in addressing complex social issues.

Related terms

1% vs. 99%: A slogan used by the movement to illustrate the growing divide between the wealthiest 1% of the population and the remaining 99%, who face economic challenges.

General Assembly: A decision-making body used by the Occupy movement, where participants gathered to discuss issues, make decisions collectively, and organize actions.

Decentralized Organizing: A method of organizing that emphasizes local autonomy and non-hierarchical structures, allowing different groups within the movement to operate independently.