Disclaimer: This section of the website is reserved for the voice of the 99%. The opinions and views expressed here do not necessarily represent that of the People’s Assembly of Victoria, but we certainly welcome them.
Loading ...
Loading ...
Loading ...
52 Responses to “You are the 99%”
Global warming and petroleum depletion will increasingly be a critical factor in global economic and social justice concerns.
Climate Change: tar sands, xl pipeline, out of control consumerism.
I would like to see Respect the real limits to what the earth can take.
Agriculture laws
Border Deals
Site C Damn
Coal Mines
Ourvglobal military obsession. We’ll spend billions to bomb someone on the other side of the planet but will let a human being starve next door?
..just to correct, no one is “spending” billions to bomb! They are millions invested to bomb others which in return makes billions of profit. You need to get the “war” facts straight. Of course, it is not the government or general public seeing the profits. It is the corporations who run the war, lobby the governments and make the money – the untouchables!
My concern: DIRECT DEMOCRACY!
Inclusion of society in the democratic processes.
Corporate control of our government.
I am interested largely in re-localization. I believe it is important to focus on re-engaging with the local farming community, re-establishing native vegetation and healthy areas to harvest food on the landscape, working with our neighbours to set up efficient and locally controlled energy and water systems, and re-imagine how we can transport ourselves with less waste. I believe that we need to start building a system that we are happy living within and that will support us into the future.
I agree, we need to support our local economy and try to restore food self sufficiency.
Corporate freedoms and liabilities. Consensus process.
Food security, a diverse and vibrant – yet peaceful and non-violent – world, raising global spiritual consciousness. The recognition that we live in an abundant world with enough for everyone, if we can evolve beyond the mentality of scarcity and competition to one of abundance, gratitude and co-operation. Love is revolutionary. To create a better world we must resist and call out the wrongs of the old one while working together toward a new vision – always with love in our hearts.
Reading this just made my day. It`s too easy to forget that there are like-minded, conscientious, and love oriented people out there amidst our sad, self centred, and ignorant society. Awareness is the first step, and love is the motivator. We need to step outside of our complacent, self serving lives and become a real community that cares for one another.
Namaste
Coal mining
Oil pipelines
Tar sands
GMO foods
GMO animals!
Ecological collapse.
I’m worried about taxes, and the way that the media reports on science.
Ecological stability, freedom of the press and worldwide economical stability are the forefront of my mind. If we have to choose between these things – the future of our planet and our children – and money? I’d give up all the money in a heartbeat, what IS money anymore? We are the 99%, and we will be heard.
Some things I’m concerned about:
1. BC Teachers issues and the budgets they are forced to work with. In the end, it’s the kids that suffer from lack of funding after we get taxed MORE.
2. Government buyouts and political palm greasing. BC govt salaries for execs and their pensions. This $$$ should be going to HealthCare and Education
3. Why does the government make the wrong decision most of the time? Salmon Fish Farms, BC Ferries, trying to bring all Health Authorities under one organization (HSSBC)and many more. They move forward but they should know these solutions will not work based on examples in other provinces or countries. Is it always about $$$?
War is a big concern along with the military industrial complex. More people could be aware if it was a topic.
For things not listed: effects of peak oil and climate change on our society, and the fact that those in power are refusing to take the issues seriously enough to produce useful action. Worse, elections don’t seem to be bringing in people able and willing to do what is needed.
The need for clear positive vision, and clearly articulated solutions, based on love and cooperation.
my concern is the banking carterl running everything….I want solutions, not just gatherings…instead of asking others to change for you…look to yourself to be the change there will be people offering solutions at the legislature from 10am-1pm..then there is time to go to both occupy events in victoria…
look for slutions not more problems…
I like your post! How difficult it is to close the accounts with big bank institutions and open relationship with the smaller local credit union?
No problem at all;
Ask to close accounts, take the value in Cash or warrant , open acct at credit Union if you haven,t a account.
Tell the C U that you wish your funds in a safer place, I.E. the CU has to guarantee all you funds on Deposit, banks only First $100,000.
If you have a loan in the bank this will not work.
Go local.
hb
I am working towards in re-localization. I believe it is important to support the local farming community, re-establishing healthy areas to harvest food on the landscape, working with our neighbours to set up efficient and locally controlled energy and water systems,local Marketing and how we can transport ourselves with less waste. I believe that we need to start building a system that we are happy living within and that will support us into the future.
all of these are issues and are on my mind at all times + MORE!!… im sick of it. ready to, in the words of Rage, “Take the Power Back!”
also please visit my site http://www.nucleargarden.ca
my site describes how to actually end hunger on this planet.
Posting on behalf of Marilyn Kan
1.
The unnecessary pace of environmental degradation because of pace WANTED by Oil Gas Industry (think Oil Sands) , when a slower pace would serve communities better for sustainable economy, environment etc.
2. Canada’s and the Global “Feral Elite” see UK Guardian Weekly, Nicholas Watt; 05 August 2011…..
Power, for so long hidden in the pockets of a cosy ellite, has been exposed. Those who wield it have been found wanting – in scruples, in morals and in decency….
Also
…from bankers to media barons, private inteersts have bankrupted and corrupted the public realm….
See you all Saturday.
The Canadian involvement in the war in Afghanistan.
..how about U.S. involvement in Canada’s decision making!
I’m a 15 year old girl living in Duncan. I`ve been watching videos and broadcasts about this protest for ages now. I`m planning on going to Occupy Victoria tomorrow. I would like to see this change my generations future, and the future of other generations to come, & create a positive change in issues concerning finance, jobs, violence/abuse and several others that have been posted. Unfortunately, I know I’m fairly young to be a part of this, as many things can go wrong. Does anybody know how safe it will be for me to be involved in this, as I want to be a part of it, and I will be with my dad at all times..?
One concern I have boiling in me is about education. I believe my education is important, but I am being taught somewhat the wrong things. In Social Studies, for example, I’m being taught about Napoleon Bonaparte, and other famous men who made history. I believe that – yes, we should be taught about these historic people as history tends to repeat itself, but I feel we should be taught moreso on how to continue out lives outside of school. I don’t know anything about buying a house, a car, insurance, etc. I know I will learn when the time comes, but I feel that this should be taught in school.
Replies will be appreciated on opinions, and adivise/answers concerning me attending Occupy Victoria.
Thanks.
Good for you! I think that people of your age have every right to be involved and connect with others who feel the same way. You are a person of courage and principle. Being involved will build strength and hope, instead of apathy and hopelessness.
Since you are going to be with you dad, that makes it safe for you emotionally, I dare say. Everyone attending does everything they can to avoid violence, so no concern there. I would suggest you be brave enough to speak to some of the amazing women organizers–strong, dedicated, wise. They’ll help you out and treat you like a sister…
I believe the ability and legality of “Short Selling” (look up: selling short) on markets is responsible for many atrocious events in our recent history. Just research how much money was made right before and after 9/11 due to “shorting” the market. Who knew it will happen? Look up how much money (and who made them) is made on “coincidental” ecological oil catastrophes. How come somebody knew before this happened? Every time you see some crisis on TV ask yourself which company stock is going down and who was “short selling” the shares right before the incident happened and made billions! There are seldom any random crisis, there is often someone behind them making money! Do you think that’s right?
Hannah Rabinovitch’s Demands for the 99% of Victoria and British Columbia:
- Bring back the needle exchange: all research shows that the presence of reliable, consistent access to harm reduction supplies reduces the spread of transmittable diseases and increases people’s quality of life.
- The cops and VIHA need to stop unofficially enforcing a no-go zone for harm reduction supplies on the 900 block of Pandora and in the areas of highest public drug use in Victoria (how illogical, ban distributing harm reduction supplies in the public area with the highest drug use, that’s cost efficient, NOT)
- Re-instate the Needle Exchange Pilot program at the Pandora Pharmacy
- The creation of a low-barrier shelter in Victoria. 40+ mats or cots or beds open at night. A hot meal in the evening, maybe cereal or cookies and tea for breakfast. Low cost, low barrier shelter for all of the overflow from all of the other shelters in town and for people who are barred from the other shelters. Could be a seasonal shelter. People can be very intoxicated, can come and go as they please, can get up and use in the middle of the night. Pets can stay with their owners. Couples can sleep together. People wanting to sleep in homeless shelters in Victoria are being turned away every single day for lack of beds. We need more low barrier shelter beds, not just more housing units (see Mayor Fortin’s solution to homelessness). The solution to homelessness must involve the full spectrum of services.
- All supportive housing facilities must follow the Residential Tenancy Act. Tenants cannot be evicted without prior written warning and 30 days notice, unless they do not pay rent, in which case it would be the usual 10 days notice.
- Government jobs or stimulus programs must hire a high percentage of unemployed or underemployed people.
- Government ‘jobs’ plans must create jobs in the regions where unemployment is highest, not in regions that are already booming with industry
- Small businesses that actually CREATE new jobs and hire un/under-employed people should get additional subsidies and tax breaks.
- Stimulus/jobs contracts are required to hire local workers, contractors, engineers etc and not bring in contractors from outside of the project community.
Political Parties and Freedom and Democracy
If the world revolution is to succeed the 99% must boycott all traditional political parties and form a new Peoples’ Party of the 99% following the examples set by Venezuela and Bolivia. These have been the only successful peaceful revolutions to date and if the current round of protests is to be successful over the long term organizing for the next election should begin now with general assemblies organizing to field candidates in every riding. It is important to start as soon as possible before the movement starts losing steam from lack of focus. The new party could be called the 99%, or the peoples’ party or anything distinctive. Candidates for the new party should be given to understand that they are only being appointed to run in the election and if they fail to follow the instructions of their peoples’ assembly they will be recalled and replaced by a general assembly meeting. Discontent is being stirred over the lack of demands which is totally unreasonable since obtaining consensus across the country is impossible before everyone is informed and has an opportunity to join a general assembly however the 1% will be doing everything in their power to create divisions. Shifting the focus to forming a new political party will create hope and support among the 99% while more towns and cities join the movement.
Bringing capitalism under control is not easy in a peaceful revolution and it takes a lot of time as anyone can see by the experience of the people of Venezuela, but it is certain in the long haul.
End the wars. The drug war can be ended very quickly by adopting the Swiss model and we can save a bundle, reduce the police force, quit building prisons, and have safe streets again.
Corporate tax cuts and bailouts
…and a completely revamped education system that actually gives our next generation what they will need/use in the decades to come. An education system that honours the rights of the individual child. Our classrooms are over crowded…our special needs kids are underserviced. Our teachers are overwhelmed. Special needs kids are discharged from High School with nowhere to go…and it comes full circle back to inadequate services for disabled adults…round and round…
stop the war against the people of Libya and their legally elected government
Whatever one’s opinion of the Gadaffi regime, at least he had the sense to keep resources laregly nationalized and therefore out of the hands of many multinationals. The link to the Guardian article below announces very clearly that Libya now is open for business, Chicago style.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/oct/21/british-firms-libya-business
I’m horrified once again at the barely suppressed glee of Sarkozy, Cameron, and Obama, at the DEATH of Gadaffi (not his overthrow)–his DEATH, before the legion of resource rapists move in to feed on his body and all the rest who were killed.
As for the poll that brought me into this thread, why, oh why does 9-11 even appear! It was a tragedy for those who died and the loved ones who mourn them; but they have been co-opted into another symbol of US patriotism and martyrdom that I refuse to register as meaningful.
After just returning from Cambodia where the evidence is still stark of the US bombing and defoliation (Monsanto’s agent orange) that murdered 10% of the Cambodian people and was surely the direct antecedent and cause of the Khmer Rouge’s brutality that slaughtered another 25% of the population–all this before we talk about the murder of millions by the US State in Vietnam, Laos, Iraq (aided immensely by the UK); Nicaragua, Guatemala, the Philippines, El Salvador, etc., etc. All this represents the wholesale slaughter of non-combatants as well as those defending their territorial integrity from an historically murderous US State that never acknowledges those it murders outside its borders. This, in aggregate, is what brought about 9-11. Again, I mourn those who were killed and the loved ones who remain, but 9-11 has become a US circus with the US State as the ringmaster; I will not buy a ticket.
What I have yet to see discussed is “why was there a 9/11 or bombing of the USS Cole, bombing of US Embassys in Africa or the bombing of the US Marine base in Lebanon” ?. It was the US and it’s un-conditional support of Israel and the atrocities committed by it against the Palestinians.
Now Canada has Stephen Harper who is Israel’s puppet dancing to the Jewish tune while Canadians have spent $ 92 BILLION dollars on security along with the loss of many rights and freedoms since 9/11. Who said “Money doesn’t talk” or that our politicianc can’t be bought.
I feel it is important to remember that standing up and fighting the 1% has increased the disconnect between ‘us’ and ‘them’. We are strong human beings, we are not victims, and when we sit together as humans and relax and communicate with respect and understanding, even when we disagree, this provides an environment for change. People definitely needed to act as they did in the past, as it brought us to this current place of recognizing our universal needs as a connected people, with everything and everyone. This includes all the natural and built spaces, as we come from the Earth and use materials from the Earth to create what we want for our communities, thus everything is natural, we no separation.
Many understand this, so let’s remember too that government officials, police, firefighters, doctors, lawyers, military, teachers, trades-people, service industry people, and all other occupations, are just that, occupations we have the choice to do, or not. The occupation does not suddenly mean I am not a human being anymore. Government officials and police (mentioned as often the targets for some people’s displeasure, and sometimes I would agree with the displeasure too) often have families that they are supporting from their work salaries, they care about their loved ones as you and I do, they just are following a system that dictates certain actions, and often, some people in places of perceived ‘power’, might not agree with what the action is, but they do it because they fear not having a job and not being able to support their family.
I am not saying this is always the case, but the simply fact is that by blaming others for the system we alienate people, people who behind the job are no different than you or me, they just have different choices to make. For me I think about when I am at work (Front Desk at a Hotel), and a guest is verbally abusive to me, and it is my job to not take that personally (often because it has nothing to do with me anyway), not return the abuse to the person, and still serve that person the best I can. This is not easy, and often I am passive aggressive, and this in the end is worse for me. It is my job, and I choose to do my job, and therefore, I have to accept all pleasant and unpleasant aspects, or find another job. I would say that working at a front desk has limited impact on the world as a whole, and can only imagine the stresses involved with positions that are responsible for public governance.
I was made aware of the gentleman in the Marine Corp that voiced his displeasure with how some of the NYPD were conducting themselves. He never became violent or verbally abusive, just questioned the actions of the few. Now the Occupy Marines has joined in support for change, and they have requested support for the NYPD, etc. This is what I am talking about. We never ‘win’ if some are alienated and left out, that is what has happened already.
A true paradigm shift is accepting everyone as a human being and reaching out in support to everyone to come together, sit down, and make was transition for everyone. 1% is still 1% too many in my opinion, if we can’t accept these people, then we can’t accept apart of ourselves as a unified and collective humanity. Let’s celebrate and value all human beings and together grow a global community where all are accept and embraced, no matter what.
We have the choice to choose a new future, one where all can truly be free to exist how they wan to exist. Let’s occupy the hearts and minds of all human beings by extending our acceptance to everyone.
Thank you for providing space for me to share my ideas and thoughts.
Jeff Vos
I’d like to see and end to Marxist beliefs and big government. The only difference between Obama and Bush Jr is the way they grow the size and influence of government.
It’s time to reject socialism, including its many children, such as the belief that humans cause global climate change, that being wealthy is wrong, that private property is wrong, that government can tell consenting adults what is legal or illegal to eat, smoke, drink or ingest, and so on.
We need more liberty, not more regulations.
The too powerful influence that corporations wield. Regulations are not enforced, we are blackmailed by corporate threat that we NEED them to create jobs, political leaders retire straight into corporate boards (rewards?) They are too close in bed – even if we can’t get them from sleeping together, the public needs to have more power to prevent the corporations from wooing our politicians to the extent that it endangers our natural environment. Laundry list: Fracking in NE British Columbia; tar sands and the Keystone pipeline; use and abuse of water systems; open-net fish farms on the coast. We need subsidies to enhance our ability to grow industry based on principles of local and sustainable supply – also alternative energy sources need to be subsidized. All these things are hindered by too powerful corporations.
Environment – if there is no air to breath or water to drink, money won’t buy your love.
occupations and using the word occupation( To seize possession of and maintain control over by or as if by conquest.)fair and equal treaty/land talks/ I really like the name peoples assembly of victoria, much BETTER than occupy/occupation
Let’s abolish human trafficking
Go home, get off welfare and get jobs. Contribute to the country and once you have some personal wealth, donate it to whoever you want to. Sitting on your ass whining wont get you anywhere but deeper in debt.
An Open Letter to ALL 100% of Us
Think about it! Here’s a win-win opportunity to build on the Occupy Movement. And — really — don’t we all share the “Occupy” vision of a kinder, more sustainable world?
If together we could see everyone as part of the 100%, rather than as “us-versus-them” confrontational camps, then perhaps we can all actually make a difference.
We probably all agree that most things aren’t perfect in this world, either at home or globally. Things can always be better. Let’s pool our energies and good will to find best-practices approaches in critical areas.
Let’s inspire more people to vote in elections, more people to support the food bank, more people to respond to homeless needs, more people to be aware of the challenges and opportunities facing First Nations people. We need more of us to care, to problem solve, to act. Change takes time — let’s make a start. Remember, too, that each of us can make some choices to change our own situation.
Let’s invite people from every segment of our 100% to volunteer time, to sit on boards, to donate to social causes, to think about sustainability in greener terms, to pay attention to what’s happening economically, socially, spiritually, politically, and environmentally. We can do better. Complacency doesn’t bring change.
After all, we’re smarter now about human rights, smoking, about drinking and driving, about healthy diets, about our environment. Certainly we are capable of finding ways to inspire, learn, grow, to be more responsible. Let’s be sensitive to those facing challenges whether it’s poverty, illness, addiction, or aging. After all, who among us (the whole 100%) doesn’t face at least one of these issues in our own lives, our own families?
We live in a changing world. How much do we really need for a life of fulfillment? It may be time for all of us to adjust our growing materialism to fit the world’s decreasing resources. What does balanced and sustainable consumption look like for 7 billion people?
Let’s be creative — find ways to spread a message that is hopeful and inspiring, that brings young and old, political leaders, upper, middle and lower income, welfare recipients — everyone — to a heightened awareness, personal involvement, compassion, sharing. Let’s do a better job of looking after each other locally and globally in whatever way fits one’s income, talents, time, or passion.
Let’s occupy the minds of the 100%. Let’s occupy in-boxes, mail boxes, twitter accounts, and facebook pages. Let’s commit to making our world happier, healthier, & sustainable.
Let’s plan rallies with election candidates, speakers, music, reps from various community organizations. Let’s get excited about this amazing opportunity. Be involved. Stay involved.
J Taylor
dnjtaylor@shaw.ca
Nov 16, 2011
Pharmaceutical companies making money off of birth. Doctors are under pressure from pharmaceutical companies to make money from women giving birth which is wrong and dangerous. Birth should not be about making money it should be about allowing women to have healthy babies for our future. This is one of the main reasons I support the movement because I am sure that these drug companies are making billions off of women in very vulnerable situations. Shame on them
In consideration of the custom of the Occupy Movement people not to have a leader or person who can be identified as such.
In B.C. History there has already been a example of a First Nation Group using the same tactics ,
1864 episode, known as the Chilcotin War. In response to a threat from a
white land speculator to bring smallpox to the area, Tsilhqot’in people,
already ravaged by the disease, rose up and killed several crews, about 15
people in total. Armed expeditions were sent in response and it ended with
Tsilhqot’in rebels finally coming in to talk peace. But instead of talking
they were arrested and quickly tried. Seven were hanged. Mystery persists
as to the identity of the leader of the uprising. Records identify him as
Lhasasin or Klatsassin, a chief of his people. But that word in
Tsilhqot’in translates as “We do not know his name.” His lineage has never been established. The Chilcotin War is little known today in B.C. and almost unknown in Canada. But according to Chief Roger William and his colleagues, in a recent interview in Victoria, the story is still very
much alive in the Xeni Gwet’in consciousness.
It’s one of the first cultural tales Tsilhqot’in children are taught. And
as far as they are concerned the Tsilhqot’in didn’t lose. Despite the fate
of the hanged seven the Chilcotin War was at worst (for the
Tsilhqot’in) a tie. After all, once it was over, white settlers stayed out
and the Tsilhqot’in were left on their own. ‘We are the only First Nations
in Canada that fought and went to war to protect our land,’ said William
in an interview at the Victoria Court House.
‘Ever since then all Tsilhqot’in people have done everything we can to
protect it,’ said William. ‘Here (in court) we, as a nation, are saying
this is our land.’ ‘If we lose this court case, we will still be living
there and we will still be fighting for it,’
said William. The Chilcotin War also left a deep mistrust of courtrooms
and legal proceedings. After all, Tsilhqot’in warriors came down in good
faith to talk. Instead they were betrayed and hanged. So when Joe
Alphonse, an official with the Tsilhqot’in National Government, and only
37, explains his role as an observer, he indicates William. ‘As far as I’m
concerned anybody tries to hang him, is going to have to go through me,’
said Alphonse. And the mistrust of courtrooms made the decision to go to
court a difficult one. After all, the Xeni Gwet’in are only 300 to 400
people out of about 4,000. Many of the Tsilhqot’in people believed nothing
good would come from a lawsuit. But Alphonse and William said since the
decision was made, the Tsilhqot’in have been behind the Nemiah. So far,
court testimony has taken more than two years and it is likely to go on
well into 2006.”
I see the lesson to be learned from this is never to have a identified leader. He/she is the first to be removed by authorities, whose old colonial concept was to remove the leader and the revolution or action taken by dissatisfied people would end.
Minority rights i.e. raising the status of colored women and combatting racism & sexism will result reducing oppression globally.
Until women of color are oppressed no more, Occupy is just another word.