General Assembly - Zuccotti Park - October 15, 2011 (pt. 2)

General Assembly (also called G.A.) is a fully democratic meeting. They call it Direct Democracy. Anyone who wants to speak can, but there are rules and a process, so that order is observed. The repetition you hear is called a "generation." This night, the crowd used one generation. On the next night, when the crowd was larger and the background noise louder, they used two generations. This was begun because the police did not allow megaphones or any other amplification, so a means was invented so that all could hear the speakers.

There are also hands signals observed by the crowd, so as to express a group consensus. For example, when they raise their hands and wiggle their fingers (sometimes called "jazz hands" in other circles) it is an expression of approval. When the same hand expression is pointed down, it symbolizes disapproval.

All actions taken by the General Assembly MUST meet consensus by the group. The process can sometimes be long, but EVERYONE'S voice is heard and observed.

IF you believe in their cause, remember the last speaker's words. Those who are there now cannot remain forever. Others MUST stand up and take their place. You don't need to go to NYC. Make it happen in your own community. YOU are the 99%. WE are the 99%!

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• occupy
• wall
• street
• 99
• percent
• zuccotti
• park
• october
• 15
• 2011