Occupy Wall Street Welcomes Solidarity—But Stays Leaderless

[marmar]

from In These Times:



Occupy Wall Street Welcomes Solidarity—But Stays Leaderless
In Liberty Plaza Park, unions are one of many groups who can join the struggle against corporatism.

BY J.A. Myerson


It’s sort of exhilarating not having a leader.

I grew up in a labor household, and that world is definitely not leaderless. At its finest, it is radical and caring and representative and progressive, but there are shots and people whose job it is to call them.

There are no leaders in Liberty Plaza Park. Or, put another way, there are only leaders in Liberty Plaza Park. This makes certain things very difficult – “Whom do I talk to about performing after the GA tomorrow?” “No one. Just announce you’re going to do it.” “How do I make an announcement?” “By talking out loud.” “Where is there to have the performance?” “Wherever you announce you’re going to have it.” – but in more ways, it’s a thrill.

The people who live and work in Liberty Plaza Park have access to food, healthcare, childcare, legal services, a library, warm clothes, sleeping bags, &c. and they don’t have to pay for any of it. They are allowed untrammeled freedom of speech and association, respect afforded to their self-identification, however outside the mainstream, and nothing is expected of them but that they stay non-violent and not do anything to endanger the entire community (like drugs). .............(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.inthesetimes.com/article/12062/occupy_wall_street_welcomes_solidarity_but_stays_leaderless