Many are recent college grads, frustrated by a lack of jobs and saddled with student debt. Others work full-time, stuck with low wages. And some are middle-age Detroiters who are unemployed after working decades in the auto industry.
Despite their diverse backgrounds, the protesters with Occupy Detroit -- now camped out in Grand Circus Park for two weeks -- are united in their efforts to send a message: The system isn't working for them.
The 150 or so protesters who have set up tents downtown have endured rain, winds and biting cold. They've had money, a cell phone and a computer stolen. And they've had to deal with homeless people swarming their encampment.
Despite the challenges, the protesters, part of a movement created by those upset at the growing concentration of wealth. Though facing challenges, they say they're committed to staying indefinitely in the park. They are backed by unions, such as the AFL-CIO and UAW, as well as some churches, civil rights groups and women's organizations that are providing supplies.
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In other cities, such encampments have caused tensions, with police arresting Occupy protesters and ending their camp-outs.
But at Occupy Detroit, there hasn't been a single arrest, and relations with the police are excellent, protesters said. On most days, a police car or two sits on the edge of the park, monitoring the crowd.
http://www.freep.com/article/20111029/NEWS05/110290432/Challenges-don-t-deter-Occupy-Detroit-protesters-from-getting-out-their-message?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE
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