Protesting what they claim is corporate greed favoring the rich at the expense of the working class, on September 17, more than 1,000 demonstrators marched throughout New York City’s Financial District, MSNBC is reporting. The rally, which was called #OccupyWallStreet, caused the New York Police Department to close Wall Street near the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall.
Police checkpoints only allowed people who could prove they work or live on Wall Street to enter the area. While a protest area was established on Broad Street at Exchange Street, demonstrators still gathered in parks and plazas throughout Lower Manhattan. They were determined to stay throughout the weekend, so that they could confront Wall Street workers.
Organizers such as Counterculture magazine asked participants to set up tents, kitchens and peaceful barricades. New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg said he wasn’t going to force the protesters to leave right away, as they have a right to be heard.
Bloomberg’s response came as hundreds of protesters tried to reach Wall Street after marching through nearby streets. Police ultimately blocked them, and the march ended at Cipriani Wall Street, a high end restaurant.
Some protesters said they planned on heckling President Barack Obama. He is scheduled to appear at the United Nations General Assembly within the coming week.
Written by: Karen Benardello
