Occupy Wall Street

Definition

Occupy Wall Street is a grassroots movement that began in 2011 to protest against economic inequality and corporate influence in politics, particularly focusing on the banking sector and the wealth disparity in the United States. The movement is characterized by its use of nonviolent protests and encampments, notably in Zuccotti Park in New York City, symbolizing a broader critique of the capitalist system and its effects on society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Occupy Wall Street began on September 17, 2011, and quickly gained national and international attention through social media and grassroots organizing.
2. The movement inspired similar protests around the world, highlighting global issues of economic inequality and social justice.
3. Protesters utilized a consensus-based decision-making process known as 'the people's mic' to ensure that everyone's voice could be heard during assemblies.
4. Despite being largely peaceful, the movement faced significant pushback from authorities, leading to evictions from encampments in various cities.
5. Occupy Wall Street played a crucial role in bringing issues of economic inequality and corporate influence into mainstream political discourse, influencing subsequent political movements and campaigns.

Review Questions

• How did Occupy Wall Street utilize social media to enhance its message and outreach?
  • Occupy Wall Street effectively used social media platforms to spread its message and organize protests, allowing for rapid mobilization of supporters. By sharing real-time updates, images, and videos, the movement was able to reach a global audience, raising awareness about issues of economic inequality and corporate greed. Social media served as a vital tool for connecting individuals who shared similar concerns, creating a sense of community among protesters and amplifying their demands for change.
• In what ways did Occupy Wall Street challenge traditional political processes and systems?
  • Occupy Wall Street challenged traditional political processes by advocating for a more participatory form of democracy through consensus-based decision making rather than hierarchical structures. This approach emphasized inclusivity and allowed diverse voices to contribute to discussions about economic reform. By rejecting established political institutions seen as complicit in perpetuating inequality, the movement called for systemic change rather than mere policy adjustments, pushing for greater accountability from both government and corporate entities.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Occupy Wall Street on American political discourse regarding economic inequality.
  • Occupy Wall Street had a lasting impact on American political discourse by bringing issues of economic inequality and corporate influence to the forefront of national conversations. It galvanized public awareness around terms like 'the 1% vs. 99%' and influenced subsequent movements such as Bernie Sanders' campaign in 2016 that echoed similar themes. Additionally, it sparked discussions on reforms aimed at reducing wealth disparity, such as raising the minimum wage and implementing stricter regulations on corporations, thus reshaping how politicians address economic justice in their platforms.

Related terms

1 Percent vs. 99 Percent: A slogan representing the economic divide between the wealthiest 1% of the population and the remaining 99%, which is central to the arguments made by the Occupy Wall Street movement.

Social Movement: A collective effort by a group of people to promote or resist change in society, often addressing issues like civil rights, environmental concerns, or economic inequality.

Corporate Greed: The prioritization of profit over social responsibility by corporations, often criticized by movements like Occupy Wall Street for leading to unethical practices and exploitation.