Home and Occupied

As you know, I started traveling the US at the end of August. Upon my return to AZ on Friday the 14th, I’d visited 27 states. In those states I talked to people, lots of them. From rich to poor, old to young. White, Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American. I didn’t find a single person that wasn’t worried. The economy, government control, taxes, politicians that don’t listen, education, environment, big corporate control, health care…I think that covers most concerns.

I didn’t start these “political” discussions, but was a bit surprised at the number of citizens who did. We the People are worried, mad, scared, disgusted, and sick about the direction our country is going.

As a pilot of a small plane, I land at small airports (for the most part) and thus visit small towns. Towns where the depression has hit hard. In every single one I saw closed businesses. In one, while walking 2 long blocks I passed 3 closed down motels – on the main street. I met a car salesman who has taken a second job as people aren’t buying. People in their 30’s with good educations who are applying for jobs where they are one of several hundred. In bigger cities like San Antonio and Atlanta the signs are not as obvious, but the conversations were the same. Jobs, healthcare, end of war, fuel prices, rising food costs.

In South Dakota while visiting cousins I heard about the occupation of Wall Street. I heard about the 99% movement and I rejoiced. We the People are getting up off our fat butts, turning off our televisions, game consoles and computers and doing something. Not just talking about it, not just complaining. I cannot remember how many times I’ve said that if we do not stop being complacent sheep, we cannot be surprised when led to the slaughter.

Yesterday, at Cesar Chavez Plaza in front of Phoenix City Hall I was proud to join with a lot of Americans at “Occupy Phoenix”.

Who was there? Babies, toddlers, Moms, Dads, Grandparents. One thing was the same about everyone there – they were mad as hell and didn’t want to take it anymore. I wandered through the crowd talking, listening, reading the signs. Speakers were supported with cheers. Signs were laid out for those who had none.

This man's sign speaks for seniors..

This one for many...


A grandmother brought her granddaughter to learn about American Freedom.

Volunteers wandered passing out and refilling water bottles. A group supporting peace setup a food line and served a fine lunch to hundreds. People’s stores popped up with clothing, shoes and books free to those who needed them. Representatives of many causes took the opportunity to hand out literature.

One group arrived on the north edge of the plaza and started a confrontation. I heard it said that they did not feel they were appropriately represented at the Occupy. Some occupiers faced them, but others encouraged “Don’t engage, turn and walk away.” “Let’s keep it peaceful here.” And it was.

Phoenix police were everywhere. I had never before seen so many patrol cars and other police vehicles in one place. I counted 45 in 3 blocks. Wearing all black uniforms with gas masks and billy clubs hanging from their belts the officers remained along the north and south sides of the plaza, many standing in the 105 degree sun. They didn’t look happy to be there, and must have been afraid of what might happen. I read this morning that when the Rally moved to a local park, arrests were made and pepper spray unleashed.

I would encourage us to remember that police officers are just folks like us, doing a job to support themselves and their families. Each officer who is issued pepper spray in my county in Washington is required to take a heavy spray direct to the face so they know exactly what the people they must spray will be experiencing. Are there officers who enjoy pushing their weight around? Sure. The same as with any other position of power – some jerks exist, but I firmly believe, from personally knowing many officers, that they are just doing a difficult job, and doing it fairly more often than not.

Citizens were polite, considerate and helpful to one another. The few exchanges resulting from strong differences of opinion were of short duration. Sign carriers, and those in costume cheerfully posed for photos. Video cameras were everywhere. The atmosphere was upbeat, a party atmosphere with people seeming to feel hopeful that what they were participating in would make a difference.

I’d like to think they were right. I encourage all of you to watch for local plans for 99% or Occupy events. Get up and go. Write to your electeds. It usually seems like they don’t care, and simply respond with a polite form letter, but if we keep trying…it couldn’t hurt…and it just might help.