Read Minutes

Thursday, December 1, 2011 - 7:30am

Body:

 

 

DECEMBER 1 GENERAL ASSEMBLY THURSDAY

Moderators:  Hamilton and Jo.

Shadow Moderator:  Dora.

Stackers:

Time Keeper:  Mitchell.

INTRODUCTION

7:32, :  Today is day 6[2] of the Occupation. [Explains 'Hand Signals']... ...I have an Emergency Announcement right now. People who have been arrested need rides.... ...If anyone would like to pick them up... ...Bauchet Courthouse 429 Bauchet Street. (714) 862-0087 ...in Van Nuys, 6320... 

http://la-sheriff.org/divisions/custody/twintowers/index.html

7:40 pm, Kevin, Newly Released from jail:  [READS OUR 'PRINCIPLES OF SOLIDARITY']. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fi5OOYPvHiM

7:42 pm, :  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYUX21SEvuw [READS OUR 'STATEMENT OF NON-VIOLENCE'].  We are an open, participatory, democratic, horizontal, peaceful, and non-violent movement. We are not a leaderless movement we are a movement of leaders. As a non-violent movement, we have agreed to refrain from violence against any person, from carrying weapons, and from destruction of property. We reject violence, including property destruction, because we recognize that it undermines popular support and discourages the broadest possible participation among the 99%. We believe non-violence promotes unity, strength of message, and an environment in which every one's voice might be heard. 

This was written by Elise Whitaker who is still incarcerated.

Jo:  Is there anyone who is new here:  [THREE NEW PEOPLE  RAISE HANDS].

:  The reason I am still here, I guess is because my friend is in jail. They are reporting that the police are still beating people.

:  ...now I have the resources to go back and explain to them something about the movement.

:  I'm from CSUN [CAL STATE UNIVERSITY NORTHRIDGE] We made a march on Chase Bank...http://chatsworth.patch.com/articles/60-csun-demonstrators-march-on-bank... homeowners are at poverty or above... ...it's a scam... ...The BP oil fissures are. The Big Fix movie http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1939753/ is getting shut down. Fukushima is facing a China Meltdown. ...the core is... ...and the ....when the [expletive] goes down might be real soon.

COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Cali, Resources We meet at the Sister cities every day at 6:30. We talked about forming an UnIncorporated Association which the Committee formed a consensus. We saw a lot of new faces. An Unincorporated Association... http://www.clrc.ca.gov/B501.html ...still allows us to operate financially ... ...under the name of Occupy LA. We are also discussing a lot of other proposals... ...Please come.

Action :   ...an Action in development. ...The Action tomorrow, Bank of America is holding an Auction at the ... courthouse... ...at 9 am, La Placita Olvera http://www.olvera-street.com/. The auction will start at 10:30 at the courthouse. The auction will go from 9:30 to 4 pm. [FOUR POINTS]...1. Someone will be doing research on the ?foreclosed? houses. 2. We'll be setting up a tent... ...fake Auctions at this tent. ... 3. ?? 4. ...telling people that they're bidding on stolen property. ...make clear there are no plans of getting people arrested... ...while causing the biggest... ...possible. Need... ...one pop up tent, food, water, and people. This protest is incredibly important because it shows that while the ...banks are trying to shut down the people, ?plop? it on our backs and... ...12720 Norwalk blvd. http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/map/190098/norwalk_ca/norwalk_s...

Barry: ...today is the anniversary of Rosa Park's civil-disobedience [  we were going to have a woman... ...seamstress but... ...was arrested. So, a son... ...garment workers will... ...We are wishing to get ...as many ...to get involved... ...Carlos Montez... http://www.cyberspace-inmates.com/eldercm.htm ...people who have been subpoenaed... ...he has given a message ...September 10... ...Bauchet Street on Saturday, December 10.

...The class is going to be taught... ...through the eyes of ... ... People's Collective University at 2 pm. http://www.olapeoplescollectiveuniversity.org/

...We believe that about 150 people have had their bails reduced to zero... we believe. ...In addition I'm going to a Bail Bondsman to bail out some of our brothers and sisters. I am taking donations right now. (323) 529-5669.

Cheryl:  ...I'm going to make my announcement short... ...Civic engagement meets every Thursday and Saturday at 6 pm at Pitfire ?? http://www.pitfirepizza.com/ ?? right now... proposal... look into State Attorney general about California Civic Code 52.1 ...has to do with anybody who violently intimidates... ...rights and laws... ...will be charged $25,000 for each of ````us, for each of them.

Emergency Announement from Bradley http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2011/11/30/occupy-l-a-group-marches-back-...

Bradley:  [There are] people [who] are grateful for [those Occupiers] that got arrested... …Some people have donated for you to have a place to stay. ...Twitter OccupyLosAngeles... ...you can contact them... ...to have a very temporary place to stay for tonight.

Benefit concert at Ambiente... http://occupylosangeles.org/?q=comment/6463 ...all the Hip Hop community… ...get together to support the movement. This is a first, if you want to participate, 'Audio Truther' on Twitter.

8:14, Suzanne, Demands and Objectives:  ... http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/tent-cities-fade-occupy-turns-specifi... ...this is a proposal we're going to bring tomorrow... ...This is an objective which is distinct from a demand and it's similar to the one that we passed a week or so ago and it's structured different... ...calls for separation of wealth and state... ...a major objective of Occupy LA... ...of private corporate banks over our local and federal government. ...Economic power in the hands of the very few... ...has allowed the system itself to be... ..examples include financial orchestration that paved the way... ...to rampant...[??SYSTEMIC RISK??] ...worked in collusion with the big banks... fund managers… …gambled with… …putting those funds at undue risk... ...Federal Reserve... …only by a single force partial audit... …that the fed gave sixteen trillion dollars... to bail out banks. lender's use fraud as a business model... while leaving a scorched earth of underwater and ...those that ...this massive fraud have so far escaped prosecution... have so far ......nonexistence... and their companies have been massively negative [??FINANCIALLY??]... …the economic... ....has plunged the peope of America into a plight unparalled...[??SINCE THE DEPRESSION..] ...Savings funds and Social [??WELFARE??SECURITY??... have been.. millions of Americans have lost their homes and livelihoods... ...hoplessness and stress...[??PERVADE??]... ...at a staggering unprecedented rate... ...that surpasses unforeseen  depression . ...execution of private theft... ...must not be swept under the rug of history... ...as long as the financial industry and the... ...under the distinct... ...of the one percent... ...we cannot have a just... ...society... ..financial industry that is just... ...free from fraud... ...we require a separation of wealth and state.

Pete: So everything is not coming up roses the country is falling apart and everything is falling apart... ...coordinated cuts find the money supply to support a broken system... ...here we are the third anniversary of Occupy LA... ...we leave the age of Pisces and Enter the age of Aquarius... 200 million people will see... ...Occupy... ...at the Pasadena Parade. ...I will speak with Pasadena Police... ...code pink ....Sheehan...http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D8TTAE880&show_article=1 ...this time we are calling for 40,000 Occupiers ... to convey the messages to one million Americans, and 50 million ...watching live in front of ... 200 million people around the world will be watching this live. It is an opportunity… …to tell.. that… ...Our central messages Corporate money out of politics, coporations are not people, and Occupy. ... the human float design the last float in the parade which is number 44... ...the number of the Obama Administration.... ...in making this an historic protest and demonstration that will change the ...economic paradigm in this world forever [CHEERING AND APPLAUSE].

This is Nico.... Nico went to go bail people out.

Xavier:  I can tell you basic information... http://www.theprovince.com/news/Occupy+movement+aims+blockade+major+port... ...the ports. There was leafleting going on at the ports and there was leafleting right now going on at local 12 Longshoreman's Union... http://www.ilaunion.org/ ...and also establishing links with the...... .also the ... boycott resolution... ...also approve the march on the 12th starting a 10 am at ...Olympic and Broadway. ...All the demonstrators ...shut down ... then drive down ...and Broadway.. Immigrant and Union Activists... http://blogs.laweekly.com/informer/2011/11/occupy_ports_la_goldman_sachs... ...that will be participating. We cannot tell you how many people to expect. We are building the [?Port?] movement fast... ...to keep the December 12th... ... in the Latino Media... ...all the Latino Media... http://stateofthemedia.org/2011/hispanic-media-fairing-better-than-the-m... ... will be getting the message.

Dara: Demands and Objectives:

Rose: anyone going to the Hospital.

Magid: Arts community ...I'm here to build a new community... based on the ethic... ...moral... ...this community needs to start. All we need is a space to start. This request is for making this community and art space. Come see me to kick start this thing and ... ...the movement. ...And I don't have a place to stay tonight.

...for two people to make an announcement to go out to... ...sixty people, was the number I was given for Van Nuys. That means we need 56 more seats. ...[EMILY CLARIFIES] people getting released... ...I have a court date tomorrow at 8:30 in the morning and I would greatly appreciate some support... ...judge... ...almost got my .... ...completely dismissed... ...she said that... because there was boisterous... ...Chad, who got shot at the tree house is back... ...That's just what Martin Luther King, Jr. did in the sixties. ...Actually there's going to be a lot of lawsuits from this because they left people on the bus for eight hours. They wouldn't give us soap. they wouldn't give us water [HECKLING].

8:44 pm, Richard:  Stephanie Lopez. [READS: I was released this morning ...detained for walking on the sidewalk... where we were left on the bus unattended. ...finally after sitting for hours we were taken out... to get processed. ...because they did not want us to go back to City Hall.] ...So that night many people ...they started giving jay walking tickets... so don't jay walk anymore because they're trying to discourage people from being here. ...Last night I was arrested... ...we were walking with my friend, and a cop came by [MAKES A SCREECHING SOUND]... they said "So why did you flag us down." Then... they said "So why did you flip us off?", and "Do you have a problem with us?" I said that I didn't, but now possibly.

:  If anyone needs housing send email to OccupyThem@gmail.com.

8:52 pm, Art, Anti Police Affinity Group:  There is a march being proposed for Saturday at 1 pm. against the LAPD Oppression... ...the group is proposing that we have are march from ...to go down Broadway ...to include the community.. to show the cops occupy LA is not afraid. ...to show our ...... our relationship with the cops is not subtle.. ...because they don't want us to be here. That they don't want us to ... ...we have to stay united. One person hurt, hurts all of us.

:  I just got out of jail. I've been arrested before but none of my arrests were this intense. There are officers out there like officer Kid who were ...son's of bitches at the jailhouse. There were other officers who worked at Los Angeles booking who were real douche bags. They beat me up, they put their knee [on] my ear... ...they tried to ban me from coming here but the judge... ...

8:59 pm, Justin, Occupiers for Animals:  We have ...Free Speech [?Aid?] in that [POINTS ACROSS THE STREET] courthouse tomorrow. (213) 531-9616. We'll be doing a Solidarity march tomorrow at 11 am.

:  If anyone calls you from Van Nuys, ...Please let police know that the cars going there will have their hazard lights on.  The Inter-Faith

:  We heard earlier today... separation of wealth and... ...I am announcing the money out of politics Affinity Group... ...focused a think proof Constitutional Amendment... ...that will... ...for endorsement. ...and we will once and for all fix this system so... ...realize their Vote counts. My email is BornAndRaisedLA@yahoo.com

Cheryl:  I UStreamed[ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ustream] on ustream.OccupyLACivicEngagement. I was arrested and detained on the bus... ...there were ...four women whose cuffs were too tight... ....Shakti was faint from the pain. ...When we told the Deputies we had an 80 year old among us. One of the Deputies said "She should have stayed her 80 year old ass at home." ...stay on the officer's record for five years. ...I also told him that council member Bill Rosendahl... http://www.laweekly.com/related/to/Bill+Rosendahl/ ... gave me his personal phone number and if we were mistreated... ...my phone number 310 694 2523 call me if anyone in Van Nuys needs help. 

INDIVIDUAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Balaal:  I'm still trying to find out who the hell this Mike Check guy is. We were ...Arcadia and some of the guys. We were... on the bus for nine ours. there were women on the bus that... ...they were told to cut their hands... ...we were told that... ...the Vatican... ...we were told that we are a bunch of dope fiends and the movement was. ...next month on ...Bill Rosendahl... http://www.laweekly.com/related/to/Bill+Rosendahl/ ... he's full of [expletive]. 

We have a quick announcement. I'm from the BusRider's Union... This Saturday on an International day of Action... ...for climate justice ... ...in Durbin, South Africa. This is where the one percent stand up and beg for pollution. 

Thank you Villaraigosa I just spent ...institute. if the corrupt regime of Karzai was more corrupt than the Mayor of Los Angeles... ...to recall the Mayor Villaraigosa. 

Deedee:  I stayed at the food Tent as long as I can… …walked up the streets until… ...the police. We ... ...until the police ... the police ...I watched... ...a legal observer taken away as well. The people that hopped over the fence… ...were left alone... ...the people who had listened to the police, were zipped tied... ...I was one of the ...that was zip tied. We spent several hours, driving back and forth. Decided to ... ...it had been hours... ...we decided we had to. We circled around here and she .. go to the bathroom on the seats. We had asked for water,...humanity... ...but humanity was what we needed. When we asked for humanity they turned Christmas music on. ...I know my inhaler was in the duffle bag... another woman spoke for me because. A Sheriff made fun of her. I told him this isn't a movie... ...the bus drivers were awful. ...When we went to the Metro station, they offered apples. ...we were arrested at two in the morning. I ...was booked at five the next afternoon. ...we were told ...we did not get fed until six the next morning. I said ... ...when I asked for soap, they said "no". ...we had... she was sick... ...they said "no'... There was a lady... ...she was curled up in a ball on her bed. ...She's probably still there. ...There are people who are trying to get home. ...we are homeless... ...our hail is ridiculously high. ...So if anyone has two or three dollars it can add up.

Steven: ...when we passed the hat. This man... C.R. Legal, I'm sure he would like to give a report on that $600.

C.R. :  I asked to speak at the Legal Redress Committee, [PEOPLE YELL]. On November 17th... ...we attempted to put our names on a checking account that was later converted to a savings account. It required two people to... ...Later Pete closed the account and put it in another account. That was... ...plus my dollar... ...transferred the money to the bank... ...two signatures with me being the primary signature. 

Steven: Where is the additional $600.

C.R.: If you're going to coninue to... you're not going to have an answer [THEY YELL "SHAME' SEVERAL TIMES]... ...[MUCH ADO ABOUT $$$].

I just got out of jail after 36 hours. My family bailed me out... Rosenberg... ...was the only attorney that we could reach... ...confirm the abuses that were taking place. A few of the older men complained that their cuffs were to tight cutting off the circulation to their shoulders. ...we weren't offered... ...phone calls. It turns out that nobody we know has a phone that could accept collect calls.

Dan: ...if I could see all my brothers and sisters who are still in jail right now... ...about... ...I was treated very unfairly... ...my hands turned blue from my first set of cuffs. ...to these gates, to this tape, to these controlling officers, if you think this is over you are fools.

Kevin...I was arrested in the south plaza. I was a peaceful protester. ...I was kneed by a cop ...and he took my leg and was dragged out of the circle. I wasn't booked until eight in the morning... ...we were treated unfairly... ...I waited my whole life to be here and it was an honor to be here.

Karoline:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-waGytI6B0 11 am at the park across the street from Union Station will be some Occupiers from other locations and after those Occupiers will meet us at Pershing Square at 1 pm on Saturday. https://www.facebook.com/events/283229305020408/

I am a filmmaker. I will be lecturing to a class at ?USC? opportunity… ...you are being invited as my guest.  It's a Town Hall. It's not a lecture any more. We are a movement... and now the teachers are letting us into the classrooms. We are Occupiers and we are doing it peacefully. We will win and our voices are being heard.

Jessica:  I was also one of the arrestees I am from the Occupy in Santa Ana and Irvine. i came out with several of my brethren... ...currently some of my brethren are currently being detained, where the lady who was very sick and vomited... ...over an hour of calling for a medic... ...I also want to go to the Metro because my brothers are still there. ...So if anybody wants to go with me now I will be travelling now.

Jared:  There are 250 more people still locked up. ...in solidarity we're going to march to the metro detention center... ...they have it too easy standing on the steps. So if you want to march, meet us over here in about two minutes.

 

 

Wednesday, November 30, 2011 - 7:30am

Body:

 

NOVEMBER 30 GENERAL ASSEMBLY WEDNESDAY

 

Moderators:  

Stacker: 

Time Keeper: 

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

[THIS IS DAY 61).

INTRODUCTION

INDIVIDUAL ANNOUNCEMENTS; PERSONAL GRIEVANCES, COMPLAINTS ETC.

Gia

Richard

8:20 pm, Ruth:  ...chicken [DONATION].

Lucky:  We are a peaceful movement and I watched the news when I got home and my friends were in a treehouse. They called it a fort. ...police were shooting projectile weapons, breaking his arm. ...They are not a peaceful force... ...we are peaceful. How can we ...when the... are not peaceful. ...secret deals that the GA never agreed to and quickly rescinded. .... we are a peaceful movement and we were told if you don't want to be arrested then leave the park... ..and we were told if you don't want to be arrested that's illegal also. so wherever you go you are told that is not a legal assembly. ...not peaceful.

Richard already said... ...make sure wherever we go wherever we sit make sure we all sit together. ...smaller and smaller groups and very easy for the [police] to trap, and arrest them.

sergei:  people that gave all they got. Since I have been here the humanity of the people is something that I... ...those ...volunteers don't have a place to stay. ...they have agrievance... ...jmoney to rent a warehouse because the coldest months are coming... ...give us a viable proposal.

Mod:  we're going to close stacks... ...next up us [bathrobe] Steven.:

Steven... if there is an issue that i have about last night is that the... GA was... ...to go on... ...during last night the GA was still going on to the outside threat ...raid was somewhat irrelevent... ...Throughout this, ...we must keep the topics that are relevant. So all these pirates that are out here... we can't have a...

Josh: Over there i was recently arrested by... my fashion sense. They are of the... ...that my cutoffs were not... ...I would like to ask the police what part of my attire is not [fashionable].

seraphim:  ...last night I felt horribly betrayed by our policement. I ...was ....I got off the park when I was told. I stood across the street where I was told to do so. >...I had the 'explete\ scared out of me... ...They gave us no warning. They didn't give us a way out. ...I... ...my grievance to you [AT THE POLICE]...

Ruth:  this morning at 10 am a group of Occupiers had a meeting at the corn field, about.... ...and strategy.

Esteban: ...about what do we feel about what happened last night... ...what are the mistakes we made... ...we need to spread into the communities and look at foreign examples like Spain... ...We need to be proud of what we are doing, camping is only a tactic. ....We need to learn from the police's tactic and how they divided us. We faced the inevitable last night and we. ...Divvy up into groups about ten... ...think strategically... ...make sure everybody gets in a group because that's how we count attendance.

8:35 pm:  Breakout Groups

 

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 - 7:00am

Body:

 

NOVEMBER 29 GENERAL ASSEMBLY TUESDAY

 

Moderators:  

Stacker:  Julie and Elena.

Shadow Stacker:  Dora and Doris.

Time Keeper: Eddie.

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

[THIS IS DAY 60).

INTRODUCTION

7:38 pm:  [A READING OF OUR 'COMMUNITY GUIDELINES'].

7:39 pm:  [A READING OF OUR 'PRINCIPLES OF SOLIDARITY'].

7:41 pm:  [A READING OF OUR 'STATEMENT OF NON-VIOLENCE'].

We have reliable info that a raid will be occurring tonight by LAPD... ...We ask that you.... ...we believe that we will have a warning... ...The raid will probably occur at 10:30, the time the park closes. The NLG numbers are (323) 653-4510 AND (323) 696-2299.

7:54 pm: ...I want to tell you this is a moment in history. On Monday we had more than a hundred people staying in the cold, willing to be arrested. ...A time will come in history when their story will be told just like... ...a woman named Rosa Parks... ...another 60 days of Occupation.

7:54 pm:  [DEMONSTRATION OF 'HAND SIGNALS']. Our discussion questions will be read shortly. We are limiting our discussions to 15 minutes... ...The discussion questions are as follows.

We made3 a lot of progress: What are our key messages and next steps to expand our movement, moving forward. How do we envision moving forward in spreading this Movement?

REPORT BACKS FROM OUR DISCUSSION GROUPS

8:21 pm, John, Solidarity 5:  The answers to the first part include: Current the right to peaceably assemble, the 99% should rule the government… …go online, talk about real issues. The answers to the second part include: Go to city councils and spread the message. Go to churches and spread the word. Spread the word of Participatory Democracy.

8:23 pm, Emily:  In our group we talked about:  Encouraging people to come up with their own Democratic Process... ...Start doing positive things for your communities. Stop asking authorities [that] is, there are none. Occupy parks, Occupy the Rose Parade on December 31st… …Encourage people to move in because… ...we are staying here. Meet online. [A WOMAN YELLING (SOMETHING: INAUDIBLE)].

8:25 pm, Natalie: ...group was sharing point by point:  Focus was ...moving forward. Civil-Disobedience this evening… …and call for a regroup after the raid... ...more cohesive ideas. ...With a strategic plan on a national level. ...running our own platform… ...for elections… ...Changing the... ...for Squatter's Rights. ...pushing forward and we're not pushing enough.

8:28 pm, Bethany:  We call to mobilize more effectively, take the power back... ...demand the government to serve the people,. [A COMMOTION BEHIND THE FACILITIES MODERATORS, PEOPLE SCUFFLING, YELLING: MIC CHECK~ WE ARE PEACEFUL (SEVERAL TIMES)]. 

8:34 pm, :  In order to keep the 99% moving we suggest forming small communities within our community, to write letters, and serve food... ...Assigning point people... ...coordinating emails, exchanging social networks, [remember] to Occupy the Ports on December 12th. ...we are building the movement of and for the 99%.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

8:36 pm, Matt:  The whole world is watching this Occupation, 60 days!

Elena ...if the raid happens tonight we will go to...the Church ...535 North Main Street after the raid tonight if it happens. At 6 pm we will go to the 'Corn Field' at 1745 North Spring Street. After that we will... ....you will know where tomorrow's General Assembly will be. 

Matt:  Behind me is a tent, Join us ...if you want to be Civilly Dis-Obedient.

Elise: ...It is our collective responsibility to maintain our non-violent participation. We have a non-violent discipline Affinity Group. Join us immediately following the GA at the top of the Steps. If you want to risk arrest with the ‘Civil Dis-obedience Circle’… ...you can be a part of this team.

Barry, Labor Committee:  In today's Los Angeles Times is an article: Solidarity... [READS] Meanwhile Occupy LA has continued to win... ...a coalition of Unions has ... support the [protesters]… ...adding that ... ...the most… of people I have ever seen. 

Barry: and we should have more gatherings more marches. Keep... ...we can get crowds out and purpose of Sunday again and again.

Mario, Print Media: ...For we have printed our first edition of the Occupy LA Times.  This newspaper is to show solidarity with Occupy Wall Street and the rest of the US and the World. ...Please stay with this paper so we can coordinate future actions.

Moderator:  Stacks are open for Affinity Groups.

Affinity Announcements:

8:48 pm, Inter-Faith:  We are from the Inter-Faith Occupy support group, we remain with you. We intend to grow bigger in this space... ...Occupy is not left behind, there is no shame. If we leave, we leave in victory. ...More bodies are on their way.

8:50 pm, Josh, Tribal:  We have significant issues that we need to discuss. Meet us across the street at the Big Lady Bug Sculpture to discuss the urgent issues that we have.

Fun Committee:   The Fun Committee Affinity Group... [HE NAMES OTHER GROUPS]... ...will be here to re-Occupy.

PROPOSALS

General Assembly Legitimacy Time and Location

This is a rule change. Why? Raid… ...concern that we will be scattered. ...we also want to make sure that our voices are heard. ...additionally we assert the right to recognize ourselves. What? The General Assembly offers at least 3 or 4, to facilitate... ...at 7:30 pm at Solidarity Park at the North, West, and South Lawn. How, at the beginning... ...will count... ...the results will be tabulated and read after...[HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] [HAVE CONTENT] 

[link to: ??}.

 

9:29 pm [??Consensus/hard block??].

Monday, November 28, 2011 - 7:30am

Body:

 

NOVEMBER 28 GENERAL ASSEMBLY MONDAY

 

Moderators:  Karoline and Caroline.

Shadow Moderators:  Tom and Hamilton.

Stacker:  Michael and Dora.

Time Keeper:  C.J.

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

INTRODUCTION

[THIS IS DAY 59).

7:47 pm:  [A READING OF OUR 'PRINCIPLES OF SOLIDARITY'].

7:48 pm:  [A READING OF OUR 'STATEMENT OF NON-VIOLENCE'].

7:51 pm:  [A READING OF OUR 'COMMUNITY GUIDELINES'].

7:55 pm:  This discussion is meant to generate responses to be gathered... ...that we shall bring back to the GA tomorrow night... As a General Assembly we need to ...totally un... ...uncertainty and bad feelings at Occupy LA carrying on... ...The issue of protecting the General Assembly... ...is not undermined by individuals taking it upon themselves... ...who do not properly represent the interests of the majority of... ...without the knowledge of the... ...Facilities Committee... ...responses on how to protect the General Assembly and whether we need a quorum or not... ...50 to 70 people... ...counting... ...that quorum... ,..who is authorized by the General Assembly to hold a General Assembly. ...The General Assembly is the only decision making body of Occupy LA... ...So we will now Break Out into Groups... ...15 minutes.

8:02 pm:  [THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY BREAKS OUT INTO GROUPS].

REPORT BACKS FROM BREAKOUT GROUPS

8:28 pm, Group 1:  Quorum... ...be a percentage. ...that the General Assembly be at Los Angeles City Hall or Pershing Square... ...Count only once...

8:31 pm, Group 2:  ...Daily count, and a weekly total... ...Location should be agreed at previous GA... ...

8:32 pm, Group 3:  Number one we think we need a quorum... ...at least 99, counted at the beginning unless... two people will count, picked at random... ...We believe that the Moderator should be someone who has attended at least one Facilities meeting. We believe that one location... ...alternate location should be posted at least 24 hours ahead of time.

8:34 pm, Group 4:  ...If we are split ...then which GA counts... ...one suggestion is that we need guidelines for 'what is the Facilitations Committee' ...Do the moderators all need to go through the same training? ...The guidelines for the GA should be

8:36 pm, Group 5:  Yes... ...quorum. Facilitation shall ...nominate someone. Facilitation shall ask the GA if they think quorum is present. Who is authorized by the GA to hold the GA. Facilitations. That means at least one person who has gone through Facilitations training. The location should always be City Hall... ...three steps. We agree that if there is an alternate location... ...it needs to be announced at least 24 hours in advance... ...ListServ.

8:39 pm, Group 6:  They should all have training. That it would need to be in one place, or it could potentially roam, or a combination of the two. Other GAs throughout the city.

8:41 pm, Group 7:  Number 1, autonomy versus empowerment by a GA keeping in mind Affinity Groups and disclaimers about solidarity. ,...Respect for diversity of... ...Our group did not speak about the specifics because we had disagreements. We felt that our disagreements reflected ...all other ...General Assemblies... ...about who we are and how we reach consensus with disagreements. Form reflects Content and Content reflects Form.

8:43 pm, Group 8:  In terms of quorum... ...it was suggested that it should be between 75 and 100. Who counts? Once at the beginning of a meeting. ...having to count multiple times counting in a meeting.

8:46 pm, Group 9:  This would be a good idea... ...a group of 15 or 20... ...making decisions... ...could have some counters added to their role. As far as... ...count we could use... ...for breakout discussions. Of course we have concerns about... ...people disbanding the GA. As far as location we think for now City Hall and Pershing as a second place. ...consensus on different places depending on circumstance. ...notified ahead of time? We probably should... ...one different number for good weather and for bad. ...we should be having more people here... ...putting the actions first and...

8:50 pm, Group 10:  keep in mind that as increment weather happens... ...Anyone should attend a GA... All things at the GA to be talked about should be posted at least 24 hour in advance on all three lawns. ...We also believe that we should have  a count before the proposal and before the GA... ...Also a quorum between 50 and 75.

8:54 pm, Karoline:  Several people pointed out that we have a lot less people here tonight. So please keep encouraging your... people to come.

COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

8:55 pm, Cheryl, Civic Engagement:  We meet at 6:30 pm on .. Monday Thursday, Saturday at 11 am and we're going to do that at the same place. Also, Thursday and Friday at 10 am w

8:57 pm, Annie, Resources:  We are trying to keep the Welcome Tent open as long a possible. There is someone there now. Please... make a donation.

8:59 pm, Scott, Inter-Faith:  Today we met with ... They asked whether they will have access to these grounds. ...They also asked... ...with the way they were going to be treated or mistreated.

8:59 pm, Jaimie, Medical:  We have a meeting at the Wellness Camp at 10 pm. Please come for planning and for anyone else, eviction.

9:00 pm, General Strike Actions:  December 12th, that's the action to Shut Down the Port. ...I have fliers here to Occupy the Ports, a Day Without Goldman Sachs, next meeting is at the Coffee house on 2nd and main, at ???

9:01 pm, Paul, Raid Preparedness:  I don't know if Raid Preparedness had a meeting today, everyone was exhausted but we should have one today, here. If you want to be a part of Non-Violent Civil-Disobedience... ...if the cops come, even if they try, even if they intimidate us we will... ...show them strength, resolve,... we're not intimidated. ...Let them show their spotlight, see how many we are.

9:04 pm, Elise, Actions:  ...One of the things I'm proudest of is our Non-Violence... ...demonstrated... ...Right now Villaraigosa thinks he won. ...he thinks he won is because there's a little bit less people here. ...when they think that we'll be weaker... ...Remind you that Mayday Mele happened when he was out of the country. ...At 10:30 we're going to have another Non-Violence training on the South Steps.

9:06 pm, Barry:  ...I've seen unions showing up that I've never heard of, in this camp... ...

9:10 pm, Sergio:  ...considering... ...we're not ...scheduling... ...classes... ...needs to be a safe and secure place. ...seeing where the camp and the occupation is at. ...change will come through education.

AFFINITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

9:11 pm, Juan:  Mic Check, as your quasi-President, I promise you nothing.

9:14 pm, Esteban and Jessica, Shadow Government:  We meet under the city hall... ...join us for blood orgies and ritual sacrifice.

PROPOSALS

9:15 pm, , :  A Letter to Clarify the Means of Communication With Occupy LA...

POINTS OF CLARITY, CONCERNS, QUESTIONS, AND FRIENDLY AMENDMENTS

9:48 pm, Jared:  Officials may send a letter.

10:20 pm, Jared:  [READS THE PROPOSAL].

10:41 pm:  [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED].

10:43 pm, Lucero and Medic Team:  We need 10 boxes of energy bars... [AND A NUMBER OF OTHER SUPPLIES]... ...we have an estimate of about $400.

10:48 pm:  [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED]. 

Sunday, November 27, 2011 - 11:00pm

Body:

 

NOVEMBER 27 GENERAL ASSEMBLY SUNDAY

 

Moderators:  Elena and Jared.

Stacker:  David and Charles.

Time Keeper:  Esteban

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

Sign Language Interpreter:  Jacky.

[THIS IS DAY 58).

INTRODUCTION

7:30 pm, Jared and Elena, Co-Moderators:  [CALLS FOR TRANSLATORS].

7:36 pm, Ron Kovic, An American Hero:  We're going to have a victory here tonight. We're going to stay. The whole world is watching Los Angeles tonight. ...We are going to make a courageous stand here tonight... ...We will not be moved from the Civil Rights Movement.[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]. We will not move to the back of the bus. ...We are going to practice non-violence in the spirit of [HE NAMES THEM]... ...I was arrested 12 times for protesting the Vietnam War... ...we're not going to let them take this Democracy away from us... ...because this is your moment in History... ...because of this Occupy movement...[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]. In the words of Woody Guthrie, "This land is my land , this land is your land from California to the... ....this land was made for you and me! [MUCH CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]. [THE ASSEMBLY CHANTS:] Power to the People! [SEVERAL TIMES].

7:43 pm, Jared, :  About the NLG... ...injunction for court... ...assured us that anyone who will be arrested will have lawyers waiting. There was a video that Magda got of the police saying that they will not arrest us on the grass at least up until sunrise. ...if we take to the streets they say there are going to be arrests.

7:45 pm, Elena:  Two new people come up and say who you are.

Armand Malikian I represent a group of Armenians here, ...we were arrested by the KGB.. ..there is no difference... ...I see that oppressive Russia... ....Capitalist Dictatorship.

I'm here to support all of the Occupies.. ...Thank You.

7:48, Michael Beck:  We have come here to thank you for bringing the conversation to... ...for being the next wave of the emerging paradigm... ...We don't want to save a world where corporations are getting personhood... ...but save the world for a state of consciousness... ...peace is the dynamic of a compromising good. ...You're here speaking truth to a pseudo power. ...a vision that your only beginning to articulate... ...I'm here to say thank you for a new state of consciousness that is... ...

7:50 pm, When I woke up this morning ...a state of freedom. [SHE SINGS: STAY ON FREEDOM, I WOKE UP THIS MORNIN' WITH MY MIND, VICTORY, YA CAN'T HATE YOUR NEIGHBOR.]...[WHILE THE ASSEMBLY CLAPS THE BEAT AND CHORUSES :  STAY ON FREEDOM].

7:52 pm, Michael:  Stay with the vision! Articulate it! [CHEERING AND APPLAUSE].

7:53 pm, Jared:  [ORGANIZES AISLES TO STACKERS, THIS IS THE LARGEST ASSEMBLY FOR OCCUPY LOS ANGELES MANY TIMES OVER TO DATE].

7:55 pm, Elena:  Gives 'Hand Signals'.

7:56 pm, Tiffany:  Reads our 'Principles of Solidarity'.

7:59 pm, Jared: This is the National Lawyer's Guild number, for if you end up in the 'clinker' so you can write it on your arm with a Sharpie. So here it is:  NLG (323) 653-4510. 

[YELLING: WRONG NUMBER!]... [LAUGHING].

8:00 pm, Jim Lafferty:   The office number is very simple:  (323) 653-4510.

8:02 pm, :  A reading of our 'Statement of Non-Violence'.

8:04 pm, :  A reading of our 'Community Guidelines'.

8:05 pm, Jared:  ...tonight the topic [for Breakout Groups] is 'Why We Occupy' and why we feel it's important to hold this [Solidarity] Park. ...the purpose is to get talking amongst each other.

8:07 pm:  [THE ASSEMBLY BREAKS OUT INTO TALKING GROUPS].

8:21 pm, Lucero:  [INTRODUCES OUR 'SOLIDARITY CLAP']. We are Occupy LA and our First Amendment rights are being trampled on an that's what we are standing up for. ...Congratulations and this is where we all need to be.

8:24 pm, C.R. Legal, Legal Redress:  We love you for supporting us... ...and we're here because we want to restore the Democracy here in America... ...the Mayor has said we have to leave here before Monday or we are criminals. He said we are not criminals when on November [??] when he said we have a right to be here, ...when he gave us permission to be here. Now he says we are criminals... WE ARE NOT! [REPEATS THREE TIMES].

REPORT BACKS FROM BREAKOUT GROUPS

8:27 pm, Education Group ...tuition increases.

8;28 pm, Steven:  I represent a group wiht a variety of viewpoints:  The problems are Federal, Yes but the Mayor has changed once in office... ...because we need a critical mass... ...for philosophical reasons, it feels right and it will dry up if you let it... ...Veteran said it's crazy how veterans are treated... ...The official story on 9/11,... on Time Banking.

8:30 pm, Chris:  We Occupy because animals are part of the 99%... Because the corporation won't give her the medication that she needs. ...opportunity to make a decent living. ...to make a better community... ...to share the abundance of this Earth in a a clear and sustainable way.

8:32 pm, Jeremy, The Guy Who 'Mic Checked' the Mayor in a meeting:  ...we came here together as family ...have come to the idea that the real Occupy is in the Hearts and Minds of the people. ...and that we  should Peacefully Assemble here... ... Occupying space is the other side of this. ....a heart that pumps but also a heart that reaches out into the neighborhood.

8:34 pm, Cynthia:  ..a group of people, one woman who can't even pay her bills and is against Capitalism... ..another to collaborate and help each other out.... ....poor people unit... another that said that this nation is racist, patriarchal, and [?hegemonic?]... ...to take back our Democracy... ...people to talk to one another who are strangers, get to know each other and that's how we are being heard.

8:37 pm, Alejandro:  ...The world is definitely watching, ...this physical no longer available to Occupy that wherever we are is to fight 'Apathy'. I'm from the working class that is we are the 99%.

8:38 pm, Temple 420:  ..help me here and we think that Cannabis. ...Is anybody here Pro-Hemp or Pro-Pot? [SOME CHEERS AND SOME APPLAUSE].

8:39 pm, Caroline, Rey, Bobby, Matt; The 'Raid Preparation Committee':  ...this is about being prepared for when a raid comes.

Elena:  ...I'm [also] in the Legal and Bail Group, because some of us are going to jail. ...going with civil-disobedience and are going to get arrested [SOME CHEERS AND SOME APPLAUSE]. Make sure you leave me with your name and birthday... ... we still need money for bail. We will be up by the top of the stairs... please donate money... ...if we don't use the money for bail then we will be using the money for actions. Also I have labels for your shirts to put the names of people who really should be arrested like "Dick Cheney" or ... [SHE NAMES OTHERS].

8:44 pm,  535 North Main Street ...At 1245 North Spring Street, at 10 am

Matt clarifies that the Corn Field is not the Consensus location and needs to be decided by a larger General Assembly so that everybody will be on the same page.

Medics will be surrounding the entire park and within 'Solidarity Park' during a raid. 

Who here is planning on staying to defend this park? [SOME RAISE THEIR HANDS]. We won't talk about tactics ...just where we are going to meet.... ...if you want to get involved and you want to  hold the park. We as a group decided to congregate in the center of the South [quad]. [MIC CHECKS:]  A good way to link arms together is like this [THREE OF THEM DEMONSTRATE]. A few things, Pigs can fly, [laughter], THIS occupation has agreed to be non-violent. ...all of our autonomy and we want also to stand together. be aware of how your actions affect other people. also to look out for each other have each other's names and medical info. emergency contacts, be with a buddy or an affinity group or tribe. We need to stay grounded as well. Be aware of your breathing and your body. When we do get the call thea the police are coming in we are going to meet here and do what we got to do and hold this park.l

8:53 pm, Jared:  For relocation if we are raided or pushed off or the raid is complete at 535 North Main Street. The California State Historic Park we will start meeting ag 8 am. there is a church.

8:54 pm, Dave, Media:  Last night I asked all of you to come see me only ten people so far about 'Live Streaming' ...we could always use more [people]. If you plan on staying come see me so that everyone on Twitter knows that you are Streeming live.

8:56 pm, Tony, right now we only have ten people but only two people are willing to get arrested. Come and see us at the top of the stairs after we finish here.

8:57 pm, Matt:  This is the biggest Occupy Assembly in the world tonight! [CHEERING AND APPLAUSE].

8:58 pm, Jared;  Someone lost a black backpack with South Central Farms on it. Please come to the Media Tent

8:59 pm, Joan,  Interoperation and Communication:  We have meetings Tuesdays and Thursdays, North Steps at 11 am to talk about better communication with other Occupations. We set up conference calls with other Occupations. Tomorrow 10 am Occupy the Ports call. Direct aCtion Call Tuesday 11 am [SHE NAMES FOUR OTHERS THAT ARE ON THE CALENDER AT INTEROPERATION.ORG].

9:01 pm, Jared:  Another reason they want us out of here is because we're shutting down the ports on December 12th.

SSA Marine is owned by Goldman Sachs [HE CITES THEIR VIOLATIONS IN THE PORT AND THE OTHER GROUPS WORKING IN SOLIDARITY WITH US]. General Strike on May 1st 2012. 

9:03 pm, Yvonne:  We have been Tweeting this and Facebooking. ...remind you that the Occupy movement ... the 99% movement will always live on. FaceBookOccupyLA also OccupyLosAngeles.org.

9:05 pm, Omar and Barry: ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE! [THREE TIMES].  Hi I'm Jillian I'm a teacher. we have about 15 unions out here tonight. How many are here from the unions? [MANY HANDS ARE RAIESD].  Tomorrow at 4:30 for a press conference be here to learn about actions we have.

9:07 pm, Jim Lafferty, Nat'l Lawyer's Guild:  ...Just as the NLG worked with the organizers... the NLG will not leave, will not desert you until we.... ...we ...a document that was posted for your... read it and... it's posted everywhere. ...drafting the most powerful lawsuit. ...I've never been more hopeful.. ..I know that history is now on our side. ... I thank you sisters and brothers.

9:10 pm, Jared: There's on OccupyLosAngeles.org that is through WEPAY.

9;11 PM, Ruth:  We passed a proposal last night. ...[SHE READS] ...the City Council... ...is in fact .... ....refer to epiisodes in Oakland, Baltimore, Boston , Davis [MORE] and .... Madrid Spain, Tahrir Square.. We will meet tomorrow at 4 pm on the West Steps.

9:12 pm, Shakti, Wellness:  ...Social Services, Alternative health, we've been providing referrals for homeless people... first aid, ...we believe Healthcare should be free in this country and alternatives to the Alternative Pharmaceutical Companies.... ...if you could provide a place for a person or an animal please come to the Wellness Tent after the GA.

9:14 pm, Joe, StageCraft:  One of the challenges of StageCraft OlaStageCraft@gmail.com to contact me. If you see a need for something to happen, we don't delegate people just step up. ...this movement is growing! [CHEERS AND APPLAUSE]. ...to make sure that we get set up for whatever stage production that we will have. Get on the list.

9:17 pm, Melissa, :  At 10:30 pm tonight, grab a piece of chalk and write the name of a buddy who has died on the tertiary areas of the City Hall. ...I heard there were Tree Huggers in the house. If you know how to climb a tree get your[self] up into a tree. You are all so beautiful, I can't wait to see you all on TV. repeat after me "I am under duress". [THE ASSEMBLY REPEATS].

Claire, Resources:  Donate at the 'Welcome Tent' all day or at the website resourcesOLA. About the Porta-Poddies they are staying, we need to [go]. 

9:21 pm, Anthony:  How many of you live here? How many of you don't live here?  Talk to someone who lives here. they have interesting stories.

9:23 pm, Pat, Kids Village:  Hi I'm Margaret Prescott, all of the children have been safely taken out. Action, Tuesday at 12 o'clock, at the court. We are meeting next Sunday wherever Occupy LA is going to meet ...because we are tired of raising to be used as fodder for the canons of greed. [CHANTS: NOT KILLING! INVEST IN CARING].

9:26 pm, Barry, Keep'n it Real Party:  The consensus is we are suffering from ...we as a community we [have] everything right here. ...when someone is talking about doing something a little bit crazy you've got to be 'Keep'n it Real'. [CHANTS: ALL NIGHT! ALL DAY! OCCUPY LA].

9:28 pm, Occupiers for animals:  (323) 353-0551. If you have an animal that needs caring during a raid.

9:29 pm, ...we are human beings... ...there comes a time when one cannot be silent. that greed and avarice... ...in a world that has lost its way. ...you have to make it stop. ...You have to tell the 1% that this is our world... ...wherever we are, we will not be silenced... shout it with me... ...We want to live in a world with respect! [THEY FOLLOW].

9:31 pm, Kawassi:  ...from the beginning we have particitpated. ... immeasurably... fight to maintain this space ... inequalities of wealth, and the corruption. ...all who have decided to stand here at Occup LA. ...a community based. ...this movement is beginning to bear fruit. ...we ask that all the Occupy movements to take it to the Hood...all Occupies to take it to all the Hoods ...we must be everywhere. 

9:33 pm, Elise: North Steps at 5:30 meet ...It is our duty to love, it is our duty to win... [THE GA FOLLOWS ON  PROSE]...

9:37 pm, Occupy Seattle stands in solidarity with Occupy LA in words and in actions.

9:38 pm, Sandy, Inter-Faith Sanctuary:  Roberto led a meditation today. and this evening we had a press conference. ...we think this is the most sacred work we can do. Tomorrow at 10 am we will be meeting with the Mayor to ask to give Occupy LA more time and we sent a letter along with 150 other faiths including the Catholics, the Dalai Lama, Christians, Buddhists...

9:40 pm, Juan:  ...there are human beings that deserve to be treated as if they were gods.  That we create a parallel system... ...as we get smarter we. ...Let's buy all the real estate and take control...

9:42 pm, Warren, Legal Observer:   ...we are your eyes, we are your ears, and if necessary your mouth. If you see something try to get one of us. Try to get the Who, What, When. ...We're here to watch what you,  the police, press and ... are doing to make sure that ...the universe is on the side of justice! I'm going to 'Peoples Mic' that [YELLS: tHE UNIVERSE IS ON THE SIDE OF JUSTICE!].

9:46 pm, This is what humanity looks like!

9:47 pm, Jared:  We have three proposals tonight... [HE DEFINES THE HAND SIGNALS].

PROPOSALS

9:51 pm, , Objectives and Demands Committee:

The General Assembly of Occupy Los Angeles.... ....that corporations have been defined as legal persons.... ...having seen that corporations use massive media as a person... ...

9:58 pm, Jared: ...open stacks for questions on clarity.

The word 'person' has many definitions... would you be willing as a friendly amendment, use of the word or words personal corporatehood.

10:03 pm, Jared:  Can we have a 'Temperature Check' on this.

10:04 pm, Jared:  Okay I see a lot of consensus and a little bit of concerns.

10:05 pm:  [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED]. [CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]. [YELL: "OVER A THOUSAND PEOPLE!"].

10:07 pm, Jared:  There's a time... [HE CONTINUES READING] ...unless you're free the machine will be prevented from working at all.

10:08 pm, Jessica Rey:  An appeal to all the world to stand... ...assert First Amendment rights... ...[THERE ARE NO QUESTIONS OF CLARITY]

10:18 pm, [THERE WAS ONE 'HARD BLOCK']:  ...need to bring it up at another rally that it does not have the voice of the people.. [HAND WAVING].

10:27 pm, [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED].

Friday, November 25, 2011 - 7:30am

Body:

 

 

NOVEMBER 25 GENERAL ASSEMBLY MONDAY

Moderators:  Ruth and

Stacker:  Elena and Caroline.

Time Keeper:  Anthony.

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

Sign Language Interpreter:  Jacky.

[THIS IS DAY 56).

INTRODUCTION

7:45 pm, Jared:  [READS A LETTER FROM THE SOUTH CENTRAL FARMERS].

[READ LETTER FROM SOUTH CENTRAL FARMERS http://occupylosangeles.org/?q=node/2278]

7:50 pm:  [Reads our 'Principles of Solidarity'].

7:54 pm:  [Reads our 'Statement of Non-Violence'].

7:58 pm, Pam, Raids:  The National Lawyers Guild will be here to watch your backs ...when the raid goes down. [SHE READS THE HANDOUT TITLED THINGS TO KNOW IF THE CITY CLOSES DOWN "OCCUPY L.A." (THREE PAGES)]

8:01 pm, :  ...for a storage unit... ...We are asking all Committees and Affinity Groups to provide a list of items to the Welcome Tent. ...

8:02 pm, Matt, Raid Prep Committee:  ...will meet from noon until 3 pm. Multiple preps for a raid will continue to be discussed... ...what to do... Go to the Library to discuss raid issues.

8:15 pm:  [THE ASSEMBLY GOES INTO 'BREAKOUT GROUPS'].

8:40 pm:  [RETURN FROM BREAKOUT GROUPS TO ASSEMBLY].

REPORT BACKS FROM BREAKOUT GROUPS

8:42 pm, David, Arrest Group:  We talked about tactics and those  two groups who would be arrested in groups and those who might be spread out [around the] City Hall and be arrested as individuals. ...people within our voices to explain what we are doing and why? and tell them to join us. ...with our 'Mic Check'.

8:45 pm, Alicia, :  We want to announce what we will say to the press. "We are the 99%. we're here to support our fellow Occupiers... ...for the the community. ...that we have been evicted from Solidarity Park. We're here to report any police brutality or misconduct and we want any that have witnessed, to come forward. ...and we want to 'Chat' when the police are arresting our fellow Occupiers... ...we want to say "they can shut down our Occupy but they can't shut down our spirits.

8:48 pm, Melissa and Scott:  We would like to report some interesting things to [the offices] ...our sovereignty to the agencies that serve us. It has come to our attention ...much like the last Thanksgiving massacre. It turns out that a big Hollywood Movie needs to film here Monday morning, and we know this because half of us are Hollywood Filmakers. ...They're trying to intimidate us... ...we have contacted the office of Kamala Harris Attorney for the [?State of California?]... ...U.S. Marshall, FBI, and we have notified the United Nations because this is a... ...anyone that does not want to get arrested there will be a tent parade at 10:29 pm on Sunday. Anybody that.... ...you have California Squatter's Rights. ...In keeping with that it would not be the first time that knowing the rights did not stop them from being.... ...If you have a Camera, please help us video and still document all property that is to be left here... ...to support your legal claims. Also see C.R. Legal for your claim forms. Each person is... ...up to $10,000... ....at 12 Monday morning, members of the clergy and [some others] ...we will be marching non-stop because they cannot keep us off the sidewalks. 

8:59 pm:  Let everyone know by Social Media. Have strategies to bail anyone out. There will be a truck at 8:30 am, Sunday to move anything out. Mobilize Support so we can have people here to witness. There will be volunteer...  there will be Counseling Assistance for those who need it. We need signs to track Arrestees, there will be a medic. There will be help on release and are there subject to arrestees'...

9:02 pm, Elena, With Arrestees:  [...for the design of T-Shirts with the names of men like] Dick Cheney, The officer who killed... [and others] who are the ones that really should be arrested.

9:03 pm, :  What to say to the press... ...inform the press that the City Council and the Mayor will face huge political  consequences... ...informed that there is wide public support [for us]. Prevent the arrests in the first place [by] mobilizing our support, call everyone we know, to come down here and support our movement. In the event of a raid is to have documentarians document it, taking pictures, videos, poems, writing plays, writing scripts. ...Where to go to reOccupy.

9:07 pm, Julia:  Every organization, union, church group should write a letter of solidarity and send it to our GA as soon as possible. ...we suggest 8 or 9 pm to bring food for those who should be arrested. [Also] banners and signs are not just about saving our encampment but ...[should reflect the societal and] economic goals that we have been fighting for. ...we suggest a press conference about 5 pm for a ...the next day. [SHE MENTIONS A CHANT]: Evict us we Multiply, you can't kill Occupy!

9:09 pm, :  Sue the judges.  Our website might be hacked.  Move tents to the sidewalk. The rendezvouS point was Union Station.

9:10 pm, Richard:  We would like to cordially invite, midnight, Sunday night, to a pizza peaceful with the LAPD. Desmonds Tutu , South African Activist said "Be nice to white people they need us to discover our humanity." [Hence], Be nice to the LAPD, we need them to discover their humanity.

9:12 pm, :  We suggest that there should be some counseling for the mentally ill prior to the raid. There will be a class 2 pm on the North Side at the People's Collective University. It may not be at the Peoples Collective University but at the South Steps. Tracking System, each arrestee has communication with those that need to be communicated with. ...a document that goes out to Social Media to supporters so they can come in. We need supporters to be on shifts I.e. from 1 to 3 am.

9:15 pm:  Remember that this movement is twofold. the first is the Occupy movement and the 99%. We are the largest last standing Occupy. When we come to a halt for a moment, It does not mean it is over and we will always be the 99% until we have change. ...One of the things we would like to have happen ..,.if mainstream media were to grace us with their presence we would like to remind them that we are peaceful. ...have them ready for the mainstream cameras. If the eviction comes it will be a late night shift... ...rest up and be here. It may not come Monday or Tuesday continue calling your supporters. It may not come at all. We have a lot of animals. Any specialists contact us. If you own an animal please tag it.

9:19 pm:  To media, remind them that this is ...the assembly does not have time limits. Some quick ideas if you are not being arrested. Come to the camp over the weekend to help organizing all day. Go to the various committees... ...If you have vehicles please volunteer. ...being a witness, call the police out on what you see. Take pictures. Sign bomb the City all over the City Hall reminding the City that we are the 99%. Ask all of your friends and family to come help us.

COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

9:22 pm, Ruth:  the Raid Committee will be meeting after the Ga.

9:23 pm, Jeremy:  Please join the Facilitations Committee everyday at 5:30 pm. This last week two public statements passed the GA. Tuesday a public comment or Mic Check, we still need volunteers. ...Inclusive Peaceful and Constructive Communications calls for a General Assembly. ...any Committee can have one announcement at this press conference. ...tomorrow west steps. Any Committees that want to put a statement through, especially: Media, Pr, Actions, Demands [ETCETERA].

9:27 pm, Clark:  Tomorrow at 5 pm we will screen a move on non-violence. Everyone should come.

9:28 pm, Suzanne:  [This is] the Objectives and Demands [Committee's] 'statement' [that we'll bring to the GA] as a proposal... tomorrow. ...today we will read it so that all of you will have time to think about it:  A major Objective of Occupy LA is to END CORPORATISM on the National, State and Local levels.  We define CORPORATISM as the nexus between Corporations and the State.  Some examples of this nexus are: The pervasive influence of lobbyists throughout government; The revolving door between the private and public sectors as corporate executives and lobbyists become governmental regulators and legislators and then move back into the private sector again; The awarding of public contracts to private political cronys; The dependency and predominance of the public Electoral process on private Corporate funding; Commonplace Legislative action blatantly prejudicial to the public interest and grossly beneficial to favored Corporate interests; The elevation of Corporations to the legal status of persons enjoying the rights and privileges of citizens; AND, The marriage between Corporations and Governmental Power has overthrown the basic principles of Rule of Law, Equality Under the Law, Due Process and the protection afforded to the Citizens of the United States by the Constitution.  As long as the above described condition is allowed to persist, the interests of the People will be prejudiced in favor of the Corporate interests of the 1%.  We will seek out all peaceful means, including citizen  legislative, legal and protest action to END CORPORATISM. [FORWARD THIS LINK http://occupylosangeles.org/?q=node/2264 TO EVERYONE].

9:31 pm, Corina:  We have three at PCU [People's Collective University] tomorrow from 12 to 1:30, Knowing your rights, 1;30 to 2:30 Police Snoop and another class at 2:30 pm.

9:33 pm, Karoline:  I encourage those of you who want to get arrested, tell somebody else. If you don't have anyone to tell, tell me. Include your social security number, email and birth day.

9:33 pm, Queer Affinity Group:  Meet at the Rainbow Flag, tomorrow. Prep meeting for a solidarity march tomorrow at 3 pm.

9:34 pm, Melessa:  [INTRODUCES LISA FROM OCCUPY WALL STREET, BALTIMORE AND (ANOTHER CITY)]:  I will talk to you if you have a story to tell please see Lisa.

9:37 pm, Ruth:  We will go into 'Proposals'. [SHE GIVES HAND SIGNALS].

9:39 pm, Ruth;  [CITES  24-HOUR-COMPLETE-TRANSPARENCY 'RULE' POSTING AT 'WELCOME TENT'].

AN EMERGENCY PROPOSAL

9:40 pm, Summer:  This is an action for temporary, preliminary and injunctive relief pursuant to 42 U.S.C. §1983, I worked in the legal department ...for 15 years. We've successfully... ...friend... ...to prepare a Federal Injunction. The state courts are closed today. Therefore, I went to ...filed electronically... ...this morning a Federal Injunction came back and met with two lawyers. ...Five hours later ...lawyer said "legally, it looks fine." One of the lawyers was of the mind, to not file because .... ....the other lawyer said if ...Sunday night might as well file something. ...First Amendment, Fourth Amendment, Eighth Amendment and the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution... ...right to assemble...[HANDOUT (SHE GIVES FOUR TO THE ASSEMBLY)] [SHE CITES FROM THE ENUMERATED(10 page, 8 1/2" by 11", stapled) FEDERAL INJUNCTION THAT SHE GOT BACK EARLIER THIS DAY WHICH BEGINS WITH (Column 1):   Plaintiffs pro se;  UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT; FOR THE CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA; Names; Plaintiffs, and; CITY OF LOS ANGELES, MAYOR ANTONIO VILLARAIGOSA, CHIEF OF POLICE WILLIAM BRATTON, DEPUTY CHIEF OF POLICE JOSE PEREZ JR., in their official capacities, Defendants.  [AND (column 2)]:  Case No.______[BLANK]______  VERIFIED COMPLAINT FOR INJUNCTIVE AND DECLARATORY RELIEF; CIVIL RIGHTS VIOLATIONS 'CLASS ACTION' 42 U.S.C. §1983; FIRST AMENDMENT; FOURTH AMENDMENT; EIGHTH AMENDMENT; [AND], FOURTEENTH AMENDMENT.

9:47, Ruth:  Stacks are opened for questions and then closed. There were no persons on stack. [THERE WERE QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS NEVERTHELESS]....

 

Thursday, November 24, 2011 - 7:30am

Body:

 

NOVEMBER 24 GENERAL ASSEMBLY MONDAY

Moderators:  Freedom and Patrick.

Stacker:  Bruno and Caroline.

Time Keeper:  Z.

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

Sign Language Interpreter: Jacky.

[GIVING THANKS DAY 55).

INTRODUCTION

7:54 pm, Matt:  [Reads our 'Principles of Solidarity'], 

7:57 pm, :  [A reading of our 'Statement of Non-Violence']   We are an open participatory, horizontal, Democratic...

8:00 pm, Magda, Facilities Committee, Moderator:  [States today's GA Agenda and Breakout Group Topic].

8:01 pm:  [THE ASSEMBLY BREAKS OUT INTO GROUPS ON TOPIC:  OCCUPATION 2.0].

BREAKOUT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS

8:19 pm, Elaine, From Coachella Valley:  Our group thought we should fight. We should protect this occupation as is. ...To contact all of the other occupations, to bring them in. Squatter's Rights; if we leave, we relinquish those rights. ...I suggest that our plans for the defense of this occupation, [to] not be 'Live Stream'ed.

Our group came up with a fifty/fifty split of those who would get arrested and those who won't. ...City, County, and Federal lands all have their issues.

Our group thought that we've accomplished a lot in major cities. A lot of people are with us. ...we will need a place to stay nearby. But we think that it would be more effective to educate. But if you look at ....across the U.S. roadtripped into little towns, [I.e.] Little Rock, the police will not be strong enough.

Clark:  We thought about potentially moving our tents back to the sidewalks which is how we got started. We eventually move right into the park one night.

A lot's been going on and we need to think about the very near future... ...because we are... ...we should come back and take our [Solidarity] Park instead of being spread out. ...about the building 800 feet from here is a 10 story building built in 1920. It is a ten story building ...inscribed on it is 'The Hall of Justice'.

An idea popped up that when the police put up a sign that that is 72 hours notice.

Thomas Jefferson said that a lawyer is more likely to get you into trouble then to get you out of trouble. ...and get as much money as possible out of your pocket. [MANNY STANDS IN THE PERIMETER OF THE MODERATORS. MAGDA: I DO NOT FEEL SAFE. A GROUP OF GUYS IS STANDING BEHIND ME AND I NEED A SAFE PERIMETER AROUND THE MODERATORS. WILL THE PEACE KEEPERS PLEASE COME DOWN AND HELP OUT. MANNY CONTINUALLY REFUSES TO MOVE].

8:43 pm, :  We have a couple nearby who has a truck. We also have MacArthur Park as another location. Some urge that we embrace the 'Principles of Non-Violence' ...we have to remind ourselves that we are a ...bigger movement and bigger ideals.

Magda ...spontaneous idea to do some location scouting in the area. ...You may not be aware that ther is a Wall Street not far from here that run right through Skid Row. So potentially.... ...go Occupy 

Wall Street. ...in a tree lined street.

COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

8:47 National Day of Mobilization fot the Unemployed and for Jobs, Thursday 5 and 7 pm. 3rd Avenue in San Diego. ...If Congress does not act before the year the ...will be cut off. ...The San Diego

Barry, this is not yet an LA Labor Committee Proposal but we will be bringing it up for adoption. The San Diego Committee however, has its own weight, so you should come. Meet on the West Steps.

Daniil, Web:  If anybody is interested in receiving text messages : Occupy La to 2342004031

Resources:  If you have any questions about money after a raid

Jeff, Wellness: Anybody not having a place to stay come to the Wellness Tent and we will help you.

Anthony, Action:  I try to do the Occupier's Assembly every morning right here at 11 am. Do it every day, all day... Have an Occupier's Assembly with your friends, neighbors, and with yourselves.

8:47 pm:  About 10 or 12 of us went over to the police station... ...to all public servants California Codes: [HE CITES A FEW]. ...it's unlawful for a public servant to ask you for your identification, ask for your DNA, or make a court date for you. It is up to a Court Judge to do that.  ...These folks don't have a right to evict you. ...It takes a ...we would like you to sign this Declaration. ..Whoever signs this document is ready to Sue them.

Manny, Lucky Tribe:  I was going to tell you about the sign... I myself do not have the power to tell [you what to do].

The sign is addressed to a person. The legal address of a person is a corporate entity of a fictitious person. The term 'person' does not include a 'Sovereign'.

I regret to say that I must rewrite my proposal that I was going to read tonight. I have to flush out a little more text on the 'How?' ...I am hoping that more people get on the stack now because there is a lot to think about, and a lot of people have a lot to say. ...Please get on the stack. This General Assembly

We had a Proposal on the books from Solutions. It's not mine. I'm looking for a person with that group to propose it.

PROPOSAL

9:09 pm, :  The proposal is Occupy LA's purely mathebased ...cooperatism ...equal access to the same information. [Based on] the mathematical proof in 

Magda: ...That Proposal's [be] submitted 24 hours in advance.  

Chad,  [A SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT]:  There is a notice put out by the LAPD that there is no notice put out by [them]. 

John:  Cooperativism in practice has meant business that is owned by its members. I don't understand if it is about everybody... where does this idea come from? 

Answer:  Gaming, Game Theory.

How is it going to be put into practice?

The idea is to make sure that everyone has equal access to the same information.

Barry:  I would urge Blocking out this

...this is something we can stand behind.

Barry, The premise ...is false.. This guy has never take Exonomics 101. 

Max's Answer:  Socialism is not Economis, math is

We acknowledge, equal access to information is good but that is not sufficient to capital.

Max's answer:  Banks have access. The Federal Reserve has access of information by the Comptroller.

Henry:  On person thought that this would be a good thing because it would give more information to ...Most uf us thought it is a kinder/gentler Capitalism. This would be immoral.

Max Restates the Proposal:  The proposal is that

Max:  The reason why It's a pressing issue is because when we get hauled off we don't have a position.

[THE ASSEMBLY WENT TO BREAKOUT GROUPS, RETURNED, TOOK A TEMPERATURE CHECK AND THIS PROPOSAL WAS TABLE].

Wednesday, November 23, 2011 - 7:30am

Body:

 

NOVEMBER 22 GENERAL ASSEMBLY MONDAY

Moderators:  Elena

Stacker:  

Time Keeper:  Mitchell.

Peace Keeper: 

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

Sign Language Interpreter: Jacky, (A Guitarist/Vocalist).

INTRODUCTION

7:48 pm, Elena, Facilities Moderator:  Principles of Solidarity.

7:50 pm, Ms. Stone and Juan:   Statement of Non-Violence.

7:53 pm, Elena:  Hand Signals.

7:56 pm, Elena:  We're moving on to 'Time Sensitive' Announcements.

7:57 pm:  Elena:  We have a special guest speaker... Deepak Chopra.

7:59 pm, Deepak Chopra:  First of all I do not come here to give council,... I come here ....humility... The Occupy movement is unstoppable. It is a child.... the womb... it is unstoppable. 

There is moral outrage and social economic, political injustice. But remember the word outrage and moral outrage is... ...we do not want more rage to ....consciousness at which it 

was created. So remember what do we want? We want social, political... justice... let's not forget that outcome. As long as we keep that consciousness ....love without action is 

meaningless and action without love is irrelevant. What we are starting is a movement with love in action. If they evict us, move somewhere close by and Occupy there. If they [go] 

there, Occupy somewhere else. Just keep moving and Occupying. ...we are the 100%, love in action.

COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

8:05 pm, Joan, Inter Occupation Committee:  

8:06 pm, Melissa, Production:  We invite everyone to join us in Production because if you have a camera or a cell-phone or a blog or your voice, you can have everyone all around the world... ...StayOccupied@gmail.com. Tomorrow, Thursday, November 24th has been named International Giving Thanks Day. Please spread the word. ...Be the change we wish to see. Think in advance the change we wish to see. Also, December 1st, Global Aids Awareness Day. ...Aids is a big problem suffering from Corporate Greed. Also, December 4th is [?Global Hemp Awareness Day?].

8:11 pm, Claire, Resources:  We took in $295 today. We had $100 in expenses. We're discussing what to do with [it] in case something happens next week. Meet 6:30 Welcome Tent every day.

Daniil, Web:  We are not ready from an information perspective for a raid. 1. There's a Twitter Class at People's Collective University at 2 o'clock. 2. The media team is restructuring tonight after the GA. 3. We don't have enough 4g hotspots to ...what is happening in a raid. Ther is a meeting at Stanford. I will go and get back for a raid. I went to resources and they asked me to pass a hat around.

Gia:  It's really important for a lot of you guys to come out to our meeting tonight.

Elise, Actions:  Alissa:  We're having Flash Mob Friday. We are working on a song. We would like you to help us work on this song. If you would like to ...why we are here... ...I want the city to see how beautiful all of you are. We are leaving Friday at 11 am.

Tribal, L:  ...by acknowledging to this group that we have kept non-violent. ...The library needs a place to go. We have been evicted from our space. ...If anyone could provide space for the People's Free Library. ...If anyone has questions I will be at the top of the Stairs.

Michelle, Civic:  Beloved community this is Uda, I am Michelle. We are calling on the power of the 99% to say no to the Mayor, to City Council. We are asking the 99% to sign a massive petition to flood the City Hall. ...This is our petition:  [HE READS] To the Mayor and City Council of Los Angeles:  I pledge... ...to camp ...city hall. Those who are... a fundamental form... ...protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The Occupation is a form of .... ...that.... change. Socio-Political responsibility. the Occupation will continue on the City Hall grounds until such ...are met. The petition ...via text... ...or hard copy. Look for it on the website.

Regina, Indigenous People's Committee:  International Day of Peace, Sovereign Giving Thanks, tomorrow. So Please come tomorrow... ...we will have the Native American [?Commission?] and some elders. Stand up, roll out of your tent, you are the 99%.

C.R. Legal, Legal Redress:  ...they want to evict you... ...it is not happening... ...right to be here. ...The city council with the mayor said we had a Federal right to be here. ...we've been here for 30 days. Now we have an additional ... If you want to evict us give us the 30 day notice. ...We plan to march around the Federal Building... ...The U.S. Supreme Court and the State... ...if you live in your tent ...it is your home... ...you can't arrest them. You have to give them Notice. I ask the Mayor, City Council, Chief of Police... Where is my 'Notice'.

8:27 pm, Greetings from Occupy Oakland:  We are here in solidarity with every Occupy movement, but especially a movement holding strong in LA. We are also here to get your support for a West Coast Action. ...for every City that has a Port with the West Coast... ...the wokers in [?LongPort'] Washington. ...and we are against corporate powers like [?EGT?]...

...we present this call to you because we beli]eve it is time. The Occupation movement ...pinpointed actions. We want to show the 1% ...who the 99%. ...Occupations throughout the world have been evicted. It is time for us to respond. Our aim is to shut down the West Coast Ports. ...Stage mass mobilizations on the .,..ports. ...In the same fashion that Occupy Oakland shut down the port on November 2nd. ...The Occupy movement will strike back and ....invade all the Ports ...in solidarity with the Longshoreman, Port Workers, and Truckers in their struggle against the 1%. Together we are unstoppable... ...Solidarity for Occupy Oakland. ...the port here works differently... ....we are calling the Occupy Ports A Day Without Goldman Sachs. ...Please see me and sign up if you could do outreach with the ports.. Harry Bridges Park, Sunday at noon to plan out this action. My name is Sarah.

8:35 pm, Carol, Bail Legal Fund Affinity Group:  Since we're going to be evacuated and possibly arrested we are collecting names and information from anyone that is going to get arrested. ...See me if you want to get arrested.

Occupy Seattle:  New York loves you ...Seattle loves you, and Oakland loves you... ...we are here because we heard you are about to get evacuated and we want to help you. Troy: I too love you... ...now it's time to begin in earnest. Every Occupy on the West Coast is getting attacked. ....deciding how to kick us out. ...I was born here, my grandfather built the aqueduct at... ...I am one of the magnates of the new affinity group Occupy [?systems?] Coo`perative. I ask you, how do you want to survive... ...and come back? ...things to keep in mind. 

Monday through Thursday next week. ...take your kids and grandparents. ...Remember we are non-violent... ...we have to eat, sleep and we have to do it somewhere. So if you have a house, consider taking someone in. On Monday, according to Ian Izuela ...how to sustain the movement after the cops sweep through.

[CHANTS:  WHEN OCCUPIES ARE UNDER ATTACE WHAT DO WE DO? STAND UP FIGHT BACK!].

8:43 pm, Juan:  I really love you but I really hate you. the reason is if I had 64 days to buy a property for the movement I would have done it already. What are you waiting for? [HE BLUBBERS THE ASSEMBLY].

Scott:  This morning we had a meeting with Alarcon and met with the Mayor that... ...and they will be here if we are attacked.

Devon, SoapBox:  SoapBox is that [HE POINTS TO THE BOXED MONUMENT]... ...I'd like to see a little more emphasis on presentation as well as preparation, because, which Police Officer would want to hit a baby in the face. We have plenty of kids here that need to be taught. ...presentation, ...with our soapbox. Why hasn't anyone tried to get on the soapbox without any limitations. ...What I am saying is, everyone is brilliant ...if anyone has any idea about how to make that [BOX] reflect us.

8:49 pm, Aliffa:  [LEADS THE ASSEMBLY ON A SINGALONG WHILE THE ASSEMBLY CLAPS THE BEAT, LEAN ON ME] We all need somebody to lean on [HUGS].

8:51 pm:  [DEMANDS AND OBJECTIVES COMMITTE GIVES A PRESENTATION]  We'd like to say that on Saturday we are aiming to have a statement of guiding principles that will focus on the [?intention?] of the movement. ...you will notice that the demands that keep coming up are at the Federal and Statle level. ...Matt:  We passed out a survey that was created by compiling all the demands from the demands Box. ...We cannot claim that this is... ...a stastistical sample. ...how this movement is trending. ...Where the Top Ten Demands are falling:  1 End Corporate Personhood via the 2 Investigate Corporate fraud. 3 4 5 6 7 Reisnstate the Glass Steagall Act by 9 End the Fed. ...John:  ...supplement those demands. 

...on the agenda a letter to the Mayor and City Council... ...enumerating demands... ...[recognition] of powers that be and which are not. ...Divest City Money from Anti-Social Banks... 

...Have Local Government Buy Local Products... ...No Ads??... ...Have... ...there may be other matters in which we could have City Council ...as the have for example on the Wars. 

Scott, City Liaison:  Earlier today a number of Occupiers including myself, Marty, Mario, See, Bradley and a number of ...lthe Police Department and a member of the City Council ...We ...that they... ...at that point Mario,  See, Marty, and Jim Lafferty got up and walked out. And I stayed and asked "What the [expletive] are you doing?" and walked out. A woman: 

 ...I was there today and they kept using the word 'unsustainable'.  ...that future groups... ...stay and occupy as long as we have. ...to send their emissaries to come to the GA on Monday evening. They did not reply. ...I did not hear... ...72 hours specified.  They did say that it was coming from the Mayor that they would close this.. ...They said there would be a 

heightened police presence and that it should not alarm us. ...I think several of us made very clear that the offers or non-offers failed to address ....the Occupy movement. ...consensus 

thast many people would choose to stay and non-violently ....stay put and make them move us. [Who was there] Deputy Perez, Deputy Mayor Matt Szabo. [and a few others].

I video-taped the whole thing.

PROPOSALS

[HE HANDS OUT 99 COPIES OF THEIR PRESENTATION]:  ...this is a group sponsored proposal

Ruth:  We woould like members of the ....to get on stack and read this.

9:27 pm:  QUESTIONS OF CLARITY...

 

Tuesday, November 22, 2011 - 7:30am

Body:

 

NOVEMBER 22 GENERAL ASSEMBLY MONDAY,

 

Moderators:  

Stacker:  

Time Keeper:  

Peace Keeper: 

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

Sign Language Interpreter: Jackie, (A Guitarist/Vocalist).

 

INTRODUCTION

7:35 pm, Amiri [?From Egypt?]:  So the ...in Egypt sadly the death toll is at 35. Thousands are injured. Tahrir Square... ...has become the world's largest Hospital ... ...We, ...against ...acts against all of humanity. We Occupy in solidarity with [SHE NAMES CITIES AROUND THE WORLD] ...Tahrir! We stand in solidarity with you from California to Cairo... ...Stand Strong [CHANT: WE ARE TAHRIR SQUARE!].

7:37 pm, :  Principles of Solidarity.  7:40, :  Statement of Non-Violence.  7:42 pm, :  Community Guidelines.  7:45 pm, :  Hand Signals.

Elena:  We will now go on a twenty minute discussion [concerning] discussion with the City.

Jeff:  Yesterday an offer was made by the City... ...of the Single Residence Occupied.  ...we should not accept the offer as it stands. .. ...ther was a meeting today at 4pm, on the West Steps focussed on what Occupy LA might want from The City.

Emily: ...because we did not want to be separated from the people.

Jeff:  There were three report backs. Two of them had demands one of them had a principle. We do not want to divide from each other ...that is in the downtown Financial District.  From our group, everything we are asking for our Occupiers. We are asking from the greater population. We are the 99%... ...we don't want to be segregated or... ...and we want to remain in the downtown area... ...one or more... ...housing should not ... ... or in this place. An office would be great. We do appreciate the Welcome Tent ...remain. ...for the 99%... ...we ask Mayor Villaraigosa ...that south central farm be [given back]... ...that the city... ...legal and binding signed by the Mayor... ...with the 99% only... ...GA ... ...remain the only Decision Making body... ...we want to see a city platform and plan. We want... ...prosecutors and polic... abuse... ...and bring back Dash fares to 25 cents and 10 cents for seniors... ...Porta Poddies for all Skid Rows and... ...Green Parks. This [?city?] has the lowest ... greenspace...

7:55 pm, :  These are more... ...all money left to bail out the Banks ...used to buy homes for the .... Sanctions... ...no deportations. Send the City Rep to the GA. ...

7:55 pm, :  Fruit trees on every block.

7:55 pm, :  Taxing the Oil Companies

7:55 pm, :  Making [change or Chase?]...[??]

7:55 pm, Emily:  

...[AND THREE OTHERS ADD THEIRS]

7:57 pm, Elena:  City wide wi-fi. There was more but this is it for now.

8:35 pm:  [BREAKOUT INTO GROUPS].

BREAKOUT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS

8:20 pm, Scott:  [Met with 'them']... They went back on their offer.  ...they want us out... ...that is not possible... ...that they are tightening the screwS and ...trying to use fear... ...generate proposals... ...and it doesn't have the ironclad feel that... ... that being said I feel they would do anything to get us off 'their' lawn.  [THE ASSEMBLY CHANTS "WHO'S LAWN?",  "OUR LAWN!"... SEVERAL TIMES].

Rob:  ...discussed that this is a worldwide movement and Occupy LA should stand in solidarity with all the other Occupy movements and stand our grounds, right here.  ...501 c (3)... ...referring to this movement. ...the only body that has power in this movement. The only body that has power to .... ....which we all know is not going to happen because I know that Rob Fisher willl be staying.

Our group had a General Consensus that we should not accept the offer... ...a lowball offer... ...We need our grievances addressed. ...additional demands. As a city Los Angeles could only do so much:  

...moratorium on foreclosures, re-examine the ...foreclosures. All people have a right to vote regardless of citizenship.... ....and ... ...have less than six days...

Oakland has no camp. Wall Street has no camp. Los Angeles has the biggest... .... Government is trying to pseudo negotiate with the Occupy movement. .... building and also want farmland, but are willing to stand and Occupy this space? ...then we want a [?revolution?]

...The liaisons should stop negotiating with [them]... ...there are 16,000 homeless people in LA. ,.,..not enough beds. ,...We have 100 acres here andj ...we should take the 10,000 square feet in exchange for 10,000 square feet.

...agreed that we should reject the offer, that we should not let this offer separate us , ...divide and conquered... ...that they should come to the GA and talk to us. ...

Josh:  My group felt real disrespected by The City's offer. We feel that they do not respect our First Amendment rights. ....and we're notl happy with any representative. We want the Mayor to come down here. ...should be free to the public.   ....We got to thinking Friday, pretty big day for Captialism. ....then to Occupy the Grove.

Our group firmly rejects the offer from the city. We are offended that our First Amendment rights. ...bckup plan with this Monday's time schedule. If The City want to negotiate, we have the GA. ...We'd like to add ....some in our group had experience with eviction, ...sticking to our Principles... ...

...we are not on City Hall's time, this is OUR TIME!

A very important thing to think about is how the media can spin this.  Our reason should not be 'No' because we want more. Everything should be for The People.  the NFL ...a dollar a year lease. ...We don't want to be bought off the way ...you have been bought off. ...we need to ....they should be figuring out how to get families off of Skid Row. ... Villaraigosa to step up, be a hero, ...the conversation does not stop with us.

...we should Occupy the Grove. ...they need to ... in front of the GA,. ...and remember that Occupy LA is not just about LA it's about the World, and Occupy is not about .... it is

..not about the old way of doing things:  1. this offer is an attack. 2. This offer is a trade of space. 3. We should be keeping the public in all of our affairs. 4. The lawn is not broken and an office cannot fix it, so there's no need. As a point of Devil's Advocacy. This office is.... ...the offer really does not have any power seeing as, how the Officials did not come to speak to us. This... ...as use as political leverage.

...we want to make sure the city ...expand shelter... ...if we accepted another plot of land it has to be bigger than this... ...with ...a kitchen... ...We need to look at this as Phase Two... ...move our decisions and discussions forward, think about the function of our tents here. We want to ...keep ...as signage in the forefront ...of minds.

our group ...that we did not accept the offer... ...Mayor sign the lease... ...we do not want that... ...and we did not Occupy for 53 days to get some office space ... ...respect our First Amendment and ... and space for Freedom of Speech and Speech free zone... ...we need to integrate those demands into our discussions... ...we wan't student loans to be written off. If banks could get bailed out, students can get bailed out.... Responsible banking act... ...also the city needs affordable housing... ...if these demands are not met it could be a sign we are negotiating wiht domestic terrorists. Also it is a .... of terror when we have receive a statement from the Cheif of Police that there will be no raid on Thanksgiving... ....the American Holiday formerly known as Thanksgiving be Giving Thanks day.

I was a part of the meeting... ...we need to make sure as a body that our message is delivered directly or no meeting ...takes place.

We talked about Civil-Disobedience, Disobedience, Breaking the Law, and Breaking the Law to make a point... ...If we... ...take this office space and whatever else. Then, the movement goes from Civil-Disobedience to Civil Obedience. 

We feel we should shoot for the stars. If we can, get the moon. We should feel 'Occupation' really means something. ...this space... ....is easily accessible to the public, It stands for ...corruption. One person felt it is not realistic to not have an exit strategy... ...that, ...taxation of Chase Bank ...be taxed for Healthcare for all.

Sonja:  As you representative ,,, progressive talk radio show [names a few] I'm here to remind you of the original intent of the movement. ...that brought us all together from September 21st. On or about September 21st, Troy Davis was killed. ... [that day] ending inequality was our one demand.... ...ending corporate censorship and games was on our demand... ...ending the moderen guilded age, ending joblessness, ending... [CLARK YELLS:  WE NEVER MADE ANY DEMANDS, ...DON'T KNOW WHAT [?THIS GUY? OR ?HE'S?] ...TALKING ABOUT].

...W3 will not be tucked away in a small controlled and waatched space... ...we are not here for City Hall's political gain nor political gain for our politicians... ...one dissenter in our group. We could always use this space. We could try it. ....we may be able to use it for leadership but we all agreed our GA stays here.

Lucero Yells: There may be several distractions.

Laura:  We.... remember that we are part of a Global Movement... ...we are Occupying for the world, the greater good not just [ourselves].  We need to think about our next ...on being kicked out of this space. We need to think how we use this to bring support to the larger issue of the 99%. Everybody understand we are the 99%.

Jo:  show hands of people who slept here last night and will be here tonight. ...Okay so I'm in the minority. I'm..all for ...office space. [CLARK YELLS:  ...MONEY TO BUY OUR OWN OFFICE SPACE.].... ...he went on to say that while you're camping... ...you're limited in your productivity.... ...For the last... ...that we should clean the camp... ...that it is an unproductive... ...space. That's my opinion. ...

Elena:  In order to make a decision, we do need to make a proposal. ...craft a decision and turn it in to the Welcome Tent. or email to OccupyLosAngeles???Facilities????@gmail.com

COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

...brief announcement.... Occupy the Ports , A day without Goldman Sachs, ...we've been down to the Harbor for... I need a volunteer who can take a banner saying Occupy the Ports. and some leaflets to distribute to some truck drivers.

...Friday is Black Friday and we're going to have Flash Mob Friday. and we need a song.. anybody who would like to contribute to writing that song. December 6th is Action to Occupy Foreclosed homes. We are loo

Resources:  ...Please come to our meetings everyday at ...we also approved $150 weekly for the food tent. They have a separate account for their gas or the media solar panels. The Bike Scum ...itemized list of these items so we can reimburse you for them.

...Occupation Communication Committee would like to reach out ...to get their advice on re-Occupation. ...It would be interesting to hear what they have to say. When I called my friends at Occupy Wall Street and they took their office space they were cleaared out within one week.

InterCommittee Communications. Meet Sundays and Wednesdays at three pm.

Print Media: We'll be up and running when we have print canopies.

...there is a spontaneous idea in West Hollywood to have a march, Sunday December 3rd, we'll be having a Queer Group meeting.

...the food committee reminds you on Thursday from noon to five and the Indigenous People's Affionity Group will be helping with food.

9:19 pm, Lori and Jeremy:  Food event needs help.  

Gia, Media:  Every single one of you are all media members too. ...happened at UC Davis. ...workshop to handle any  and all concepts relating to raids. I want to prepare everybody in case of a raid. Footage doesn't lie. We can show ... them our meetings are on the South steps at 5 pm.

PROPOSAL

Lori and Jeremy:  The General Assembly of Occupy LA is the only body that makes decisions for Occupy LA. [WHAT, WHY AND HOW].

9:38 pm:  [STACKS ARE OPENED FOR 30 SECONDS].

Why wait 7 to 10 days...?

Answer:  ...we are open to changing it...

Barry:  Paragraph two... ...why not say we are being attacked...[Cites raids]. ...Why isn't that mentioned... [MODERATOR MENTIONS THAT THESE ARE CONCERNS NOT QUESTIONS ON CLARITY].

...:  I don't quite understand ...?

Answer:  We want to pass out the declaration to the city. We want to read [it] to the city... ...and other statements.... ...

9:44 pm:  [TEMPERATURE CHECK:  TWO 'HARD BLOCKS']... ...[LUCERO CALLS FOR POINT OF PROCESS]... ...[MODERATOR:  I WAS GETTING TO THAT].

My hard block comes from the objectives and Demands Committee... ...I feel that this should have gone to that committee. ...several different 'Declarations' ...read... ...clarity. [YELLS: THAT IS NOT A 'HARD BLOCK', THAT IS A CONCERN].

Barry:  [CITES TWO PASSAGES IN THE 'DECLARATION'] ... ...[OFFERS TO WAIVE HIS... ...WITH THOSE TWO CHANGES].

Jeremy:  ...[READS IT] ...we brought those quotes in to ....to have a 'love language' ...I agree that... ....that's why we included... ...

Barry:  Our movement is about raising demands even though we have been promised... but... ...have not done so... ..

Jeremy... ...said at the end of it "Demands MAY follow. [EMPHASIS ADDED]... ...We have decided to bring this... ...the people to articulate for themselves rather than... ...the LA Times to make their demands. [YELLS THAT THAT IS NOT A 'HARD BLOCK'].

Jeremy:  You located a land mine in the 'Declaration'... ...please [point out] the 'land mine'.

A man:  [honors Martin Luther King]... ...each time we address it, it becomes more peaceful... ...

9:58 pm:  [TEMPERATURE CHECK AND BARRY 'HARD BLOCKS', YELLS:  THAT IS NOT A 'HARD BLOCK', BARRY REMOVES HIS HARD BLOCK].

9:58 pm:  [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED].

ANNOUNCEMENTS

10:01 pm, Geneva:  LA is the second largest city in the country. We have a mild climate... [cites other occupations with harsh weather]...we need to keep the spark... ...it needs to be outdoors in a central location. .,..this is it, we are here. Furthermore, we need to hold Villaraigosa's feet to the fire... ...we need to stay strong... ...I'm an old war horse from the sixties.

10:04 pm, : ...I will be representing... ...in D.C. ...Now is the time ...we talk about jobs and the economy... ...consider ant to get your blessings.

10:06 pm, :Today I was forced and compelled to ...citizen's arrest because the money [is still missing]... ...[He is] behind me... ...we raised about $1830 for bail. ...C.R. Legal has kept [?$630?].

10:08 pm, Shakti, Wellness:  Tomorrow... ...alternatives to psychiatry. I encourage all to come... ...also on Friday ...a rap group for anyone dealing with stress. ...

10:10 pm, Dylan, :  ...we had an art rally... ...if you would like to support [art] contact us at OccupyLAArtsEdu@gmail.com.

10:11 pm, :  One of our brothers, Will, just got his head cracked open by the wife of an inebriated person. If you want to talk to us meet us over there [HE POINTS].

10:12 pm,  :  Occupy San Fernando Valley... ...there are people from San Fernando Valley coming here... ...we ...ask you to stop by. Sunday we have a FlashMob at Universal City Walk ...for the San Fernando Valley... ...We are looking for people to help us out for planning Teach-Ins. Come see me over there [HE POINTS].

10:14 pm, Barry, Anti-war or Anti-Imperialist ?Movement?... ...next Tuesday movements including Venezuela, Bolivia and others December 2 through 4th. and Inhumane treatment of individuals by Homeland Security. .... march and strike in defense of immigrant rights. ...

10:15 pm, DeeDee:  Thursday, International Giving Thanks Day the Health Department has agreed we can have a ...dinner... anybody can bring... ...I would like to see.... races, creeds and... ...sitting together. People are welcomed to bring in donations between 12 and 5 pm. Vegan donations... ...because Occupy LA welcomes diversity in all things including food.

Elijah:  Today I had a long conversation with a Tea Partyer and ...fundamentally all want the same things... ...all of America has been screwed... ...Come talk to me.

Melissa, Production:  ...we do the public service announcements to let the world know of our dissent.  ...Thanksgiving has been renamed ...International Giving Thanks Day... you can ...with the Indigenous Committee... ...you can still participate all around the world. Please attend the FaceBook International Giving Thanks Day. Scotty will tell you...

Scotty:  I'm heading out to Alcatraz... ..holding space there. ...be it solo mission or group effort. FaceBook, Re Tweet and aggregate your social media.

10:23 pm, Jackie, Sign-Language Interpreter:  People that are talking behind me make it very difficult for me to [SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRET].

Monday, November 21, 2011 - 7:30am

Body:

 

NOVEMBER 21 GENERAL ASSEMBLY MONDAY

Moderators:  Jared and Ruth.

Stacker:  Esteban and Julie.

Time Keeper:  Shawn.

Peace Keeper: Dele.

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

INTRODUCTION

7:45 pm, Ruth, Facilitations Committee:  [GIVES AGENDA].

7:47 pm, Jo, StageCraft:  [READS OUR 'PRINCIPLES OF SOLIDARITY].

7:49 pm, The community will respect the individual's right to use drugs and alcohol, but the community will respect the individual's well being...

7:52 pm, [A FEMALE FROM THE ASSEMBLY IS ASKED TO READ OUR 'STATEMENT OF NON-VIOLENCE']. 

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS

7:55 pm, Cheryl, Civic Engagement:  Finance discussed Responsible Banking Ordinance to go to Council tomorrow at 10 am.

7:56 pm, Jared, Facilitations Committee:  [DESCRIBES HAND SIGNALS].

7:58 pm, Jim:  I want to make a brief announcement. Those who were arrested, women go on December 8th, one of our best National Lawyers will be with them. ...Whatever decision about any decisions that have to be openly about this occupation. The Lawyers Guild will...[?support us?].

THE CITY PROPOSAL TO THE 'OCCUPY LOS ANGELES GENERAL ASSEMBLY VIA JIM LAFFERTY, NATIONAL LAWYERS GUILD OF LOS ANGELES

Here's what the city said it will do. 1. It will guve us for those who want to use it a 10,000 square foot building. 2. It will give one or more pieces of land to those ...who wish to farm it. 3. It will open up additional beds for the homeless. 4. It will open Single Residency Occupied, SRO residences. The important thing is... we do not represent you, we are only telling you what people have asked for, that you want. They have also ...when they will not allow this occupation to continue on this site here. ...that we now hope that you all will think of other things that you'd like us to demand on your behalf with the understanding that we will agree to nothing unless you have decided what to do. and we have made that time after time again... ...One of the things we made clear to them that even if ...accepted ...you will still be conducting the same kind of action that you have been conducting up to now.

8:05 pm, Jared:  [ASKS FOR ASSEMBLY MEMBERS TO COME TO THE STACKERS FOR QUESTIONS].

QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE CITY'S PROPOSAL

8:06 pm, Jim:  We asked to see the lease so that the rug is not pulled from under us. ...it's a dollar a year lease. It is in the Civic Center Mall with all the windows. It's the old Dutton Bookstore ...about 300 yards from here.

8:08 pm, Mark:  Is this offer a quid pro quo [this for that]...?

Jim: Yes and no... ...some people... ...would want to take that offer and some ... ...would want to stay. ...If anyone... ...wants to take that offer even though there are some of you here that would want to take that offer.

Matthew:  Are there any conditions that were stated if we are there. (things that we can and can not do).

Jim:  That's why I want to see the lease. We made it clear that out of there we ...will be organizing protests. ...When we see the lease. we'll look at it and report back.

Candace:  How long has this negotiation been taking place and why are we now just hearing about it.

Jim:  The discussion started ...days when this movement started. ...ask...camp on city hall lawn. I said I will try, I think I can do it . ...I told the Chief of Police the next day he would find tents and. He said it is a State Park and there are no camping. I said there aren't any signs... ... ...He said let's agree to disagree... Whenever there's a [mishap] I get a call.

8:16 pm, Lucero:  I want to say today is day 52 and I want to celebrate. At the same time I'me very disturbed ...betrayed. This is the first time all these discussion ...have come to light. Since this is the first time that we should hear about this, we shouldn't close stacks. ...my question is "Who was in those meetings?"

Jim:  ...I resent the implication that was...

Mario:  I was at the meeting and i remind people ...at Pershing Square... and two or three other meetings [September the 26th] I was appointed City Liaison. I remind people that I said "No." ...and they asked me again... ...So if anybody else wants to identify himself come on up.

Scott:  At the first meeting I was there with Mario. ...There was a leader there  ...was getting crushed. at the next meeting there were 6 people there. at the next meeting 12 people were there. ...at the next meeting there were [HE CONTINUES MENTIONING THE NUMBERS OF PEOPLE AT THE SUBSEQUENT MEETINGS ALONG WITH JIM LAFFERTY, MARIO, AND HIMSELF].

Emily:  Is this measure trying to get us to separate from 'the people' and say we're Occupy LA and not get the best interests of 'the people'. ...When I was arrested... ...someone was telling them exactly what we were doing. Would this move [separate us] from the American people.

Mario:  I believe being here we're just preaching to the choir. We need to go out to ... ...On May 1st. ...We [have to] go to East LA. [NAMES OTHER LOCALES IN SOLIDARITY WITH OCCUPY LOS ANGELES].

Candace:  Exactly how long has this discussion been going on. ...and why is it just now being brought to the GA?

Bradley:  The reason why you are just now hearing about this... is because we didn't have any paperwork.... ...I was in the meeting [CALLS TO HEAR FROM MARIO].

[YELLING "HOW LONG"].

Mario:  [REITERATES BRADLEY'S ANSWER].

Chicken:  ...this has great possibilities. ...me being a farmer is about the farmland. Will he have to use 'Round-Up' ready plants? Will be able to grow tomatoes or Ganja.

Jim. ...unless you have a license.

Mario:  ...to bring fresh vegetables to a community.

Ruth:  Can we expand the circle? [EVERYBODY IS CROWDING THE MODERATORS].

A MAN:  I want to thank Mario and the City Liaisons ...direct and transparent input ...parameters... ..conditions thereof.  and whatever decisions were made... ...I think this has to be much more transparent. ...Why hasn't there been any. ...where the location of this GA is traded away for any other issue.

8:35 pm, Juan:  You just stated that you would keep the stacks open. so leave them open.

8:38 pm:  ...open for 24 hours at a time... or... ...I would like that stated on the lease.

Jim:  That's why I want to see the lease. ...

Mario:  ...We have not accepted anything. We want to make it clear we... ...no one has taken away that... ...it's about building a movement and the more we stay here and not go out... [YELLS: PREACHING!].

A MAN:  People should stop this fear mongering. ...Some people negotiated or discussed [YELLING]. You said we have a deadline to be here and they have offered us this building. ...time we are told to move from here.

Jim and Mario:  Yes.

[QUESTION PROPOSED TO KEEP STACKS OPEN OR GO BREAKOUT GROUPS].

Lucero:  [YELLS: WHY CAN'T WE DO BOTH?].

Jared:  We can.

Ruth:  We ask you to ask questions of clarification. We asked the people up here to answer, not to pontificate. [SHE ADDRESSES THE ASSEMBLY: WE ASK YOU

Suzanne:  ...everyone here wants the success of this movement... ...my question is ...camping laws?

Jim:  Camping laws do trump the First Amendment on .... ...you have no right to Occupy public space to the exclusion of others.. ...like the Farmers, like the Boy Scouts. ...Personally I'd like you to Occupy... ...with all due respect brother the ACLU the Lawyers Guild ....has done precisely that and the Supreme Court...

[EMILY YELLS: (EXPLETIVE) THE SUPREME COURT, THEY HAVE NO POWER].

Jim: ...Don't shoot the messenger.

A Man:  ...beds to the homeless, SRO, and housing voucher?

Jim:  I said, that though I spoke for no one ...that you would not want to step on somebody else to get into the shelter.  ...I said further is there a list of people waiting to get into the shelter,...SROs...and we all said "Until you do don't..."

On the SRO issue, it is a year and a half wait. If we take a deal there's a year and a half waiting list.

[EMILY YELLS: IT'S A MILITARY TACTIC].

Jim:  They also asked if ...families. and at least two pregnant women here.

Ruth:  ...bring all the documents that they have. I believe it's at 4 pm on the West Steps.

Jeremy:  I haven't read the lease but I did read the First Amendment... shall not be abridged. Why ...negotiate and not bring it to the people. It makes sense... ...to expose the entire process. ...the City Speaks out of two sides of its mouth. ...whether that was on the table on these dialogues.

Scott:  I believe many people would think we were remiss ...no dialogue .,..that being said I have tried to come to this forum to have a dialogue... ...we cannot sustain this. ...do we not have a right to stand here and redress our grievances.

Ruth:  We have a list of people who have questions. We will get through them.

Daniil:  I ...want to know why the focus about these negotiations are about what we can get... ...There are ...things the city cany do to improve the quality of life... ...for example, fruit trees on every corner.

Scott:  .... to try to put together proposals for these kinds of ideas. Strategy, to not talk to the press about these because ...strategic actions required.

Melissa:  I have been told on numerous occasions that I Melissa Ballen represent Occupy LA or Occupy LA Media ...to Mr. Lafferty, Mario Brito... that you do not represent me Melissa Ballen, ...you are now on notice. Any negotiations ...is hereby null and void. ...We also note the following:  At 3:50 pm today Chief Charlie Beck, "One of the things that has set us apart from other cities is that we will continue to dialogue directly to Occupiers....There is no plan to evict people... ...Thanksgiving Weekend... ...at this juncture we have no cause."

Ruth:  We are Occupy LA, We Occupy. All night All day!

Julia:  How is splitting up the camp with one part legally sanctioned by the city and the other part at risk of arrest not abandoning our comrades. How is ...a couple of... ...If we take this deal it will make us look like we are making deals for [??] and not the other 99%. The problem:  Either you have a specific question. ..and maybe the [liaison] will report and bring it back...

Jared:  At the beginning of the GA I asked if we wanted to do it ...it has become a forum for.,. ...craft our answer to this report back.

Scott:  ....split in [?half?]... ...it would also be nice if this forum allowed discussion and responses... ...by limiting the discussion. However, when someone makes a ...point,..

A Man:  Why is this committee so different from all the other committees. ...Of Power, ...I thought this was an experiment 

Scott:  People have been participating and new faces have been... ...for instance... when police.... ...I took that role, and other times I took that role.[CHANTING TO A LOUD MOUTHED LADY AT THE TOP OF THE STEPS: GET ON STACK!].

William:  I would like to the stacks back on topic... ...the homeless in this city participating is the heart of this movement. ...this movement is what is going on in this country, and what is going on is a result of me being homeless.  If we take this bribe will it segregate the homeless from this movement because the homeless have a time limit to get back [REFERS TO CHECK IN TIME].

A Lady:  How do you as a Lawyer not see this movement ...and if you see something that is wrong and you ...[?do nothing?] ...and what case in law are you using [?case precedence?] ...and under what code is this city, police, and fire department standing on in order to remove any person from public property and any lawyer... ...would attack that law?

Jim:  Answers first question: I don't.

Ruth:  We request that these people bring all documentation to tomorrow's GA.

Jim:  I think I understand the rest of the sister's question... ...I have been for the last 50 years and the Lawyers guild for the last 75 years and the sister says we should be doing. That is challenging ...court... ...Those of you who wish to stay ...arrested and we will go to court to try to prevent that arrest. ...and they will be the one's to go to jail and not me, even though I have gone to jail for this movement. ...do not give up the fight for what we are fighting for... ...You need to know what you want to do. I can't tell you what to do.

Jim:  I have never said, the Nat'l Lqwyers Guild has never said... ...that your rights to encamp on this property is more important than whatever the [expletive] they are doing in that building... ...that those that want to stay will stay,.. that those that want to [AND OTHER "THAT'S"] ...that I and other's in the Lawyer's Guild will fight for whatever it is you are doing.

The Sister:  That I've seen in other organizations the negotiations just prior to a ...raid.. ...in order for us to mobilize to change that law and give them nothing to stand for.

Jim ...I will state the laws we are violating:  state law against camping in a public park, the fire laws that requires tents to be further apart then they are, the public johns to be cleaner than they are, it is illegal to use [pot] and other drugs here, it is illegal to have fires here, it is illegal to let other children smoke drugs here. Don't shoot the messenger. 

Chris Legal 55 at yahoo.com:  Do you all want to know why Mario and ...Hard Block. Did you know that you were going to Hard Block without our permission.

Scott:  First of all it is illegal for a man to file a lawsuit on behalf {HE CHANTS: WHERE IS THE MONEY! AND THE BODY CHIMES IN[CHRIS YELLS: ANSWER THE QUESTION!] [MUCH YELLING AND MIC CHECKING, INAUDIBLE WORDS].

Jared:  When did you know you were having a meeting?

Scott:  We new were going to have a meeting yesterday.

[JUAN APPROACHES RUTH AGGRESIVELY AND A COMMOTION OVER IT ENSUES]

Juan:  [INCOHERENT]

Mark:  When we are ...discussing this offer... ...Occupy LA is just... ...we are the largest Occupy in this country... ...so when we are offered something, does this help the movement or does it just help us. What I'm seeing is the City Hall is creating a wedge issue... ...they are controlling our conversation... If the city.,. [CHEERING AND SOME APPLAUSE]...then; Antonio Villaraigosa will be sitting in the White House. He's got an agenda too! My question is...

Jim:  Let me answer the last question first. Nothing will stop the police from doing what the brother suggests. ...[Disclaimer]:  I have tried not to put my own thoughts or beliefs because I am not the one sleeping here... ...If you want my opinion say so. [THEY ASK].  ...I want to make it clear that I am pessimistic but I will try to keep it here the way it is now. >...I thought that the main isssue was to take on the banks, the mortgage, ...the politicians, [MORE]... ...and they continue to go to the [?foreclosed?] ...... ...My personal wish is that those that want to stay will stay... ...those that want to go and start a farm and go to a building... ...that you could do all of those things. ...this movement... ...will have a life beyond this cement.

Jeff:  It is my personal belief that the building 10,000 square feet is a trap on a political playing field. I feel we ...that we must not give up.

A Man:  Are we a Direct Participatory Democracy, These people don't have answers, they're trying to help us. Help them help us.

Mitchell:  I've been here since day three, I want to know why are you here. Are you here to beat bongos and smoke weed. They do that on skid row all the time... ...New York, Denver... ...If you are serious, you will need office space. Do you want to camp out or get down to business.

Scott:  A number of people have expressed frustration working here. Another number of people that what we may do will ...fracture our movement. Other people have said that... ...Will we be fractured, will we be destroyed... ...We need to figure out what that looks like. I have learned negotiating contracts ...it always feels like you didn't get some things, like you didn't get any thing...

Michael Novak:  In retrospect don't you see that the state is trying to use classic divide and conquer, ..by dangling an offer. In retrospect it shows the strength of the movement and the weakness of the state. ...we represent the power of the imagination and the power of the people. We represent ????/}] and the power of the movement. ...Let the city give back the south central farms, let the city ...rent control... let the city make fair bus fares that they've rased twice in the last month. let the city... [and others].

See:  To respond, the city or the police may be trying to split us apart [SOMEONE CALLS FOR A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, VISIBLE SMOKE TO THE WEST, PEOPLE MOVING TO THE ALLEDGED FIRE, AND ONE GUY WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER]...[RUTH LEADS CHANTING: HEY HEY HO HO CORPORATE GREED HAS GOT TO GO!]

See:  to continue... ...those are a great list of questions. about the Occupy being split by the City and the LAPD, ...we have been splitting by our public support. When some people who want to come here but won't because of the conditions on the south lawn. They want to help [donations] but...

Scott:  ...that while we were in the meeting we never said, ..or never implied that we were willing to give up our presence here.

David:  When I first came here I envisioned participating in a working class movement. ....the people that are banking the heads ...are the Democratic and Republican party, polic Chief. ...How does ...the represent of the ...enemy of the working class... ...working class interests.

Scott:  By definition negotiations require both sides to have the authority to pro offer and accept deals, ...we do not have that authority... ...the brother's point about working class solidarity is well taken.

Emily:  I have another solution, I got arrested on Thursday. I refused to give my name because I said I represent the people. ...We could use my court date for the people... because if they

Summer:  My problem with negotiation, it was presented that vaguely some of the people have said that ...some of their demands ....social services problems. These problems have existed ...all of my life. ...this is... but this is not what you ask the city for... ...We're going to have larger demands that address some of the occupy movement nationally or globally... ......it is somewhat self-serving to... ...while we go camp out.. that they give away to every non-profit that asks for it.

A man:  the first offer that we got today was. does anybody think we should take a first offer? that would be a rookie mistake. I agree with Summer completely.... ...a list of what those

Ruth:  After this last question we will break out into groups so we could answer these questions.

Bert:  As much as I would like to believe that the city is working in good faith because I ...things we should demand. As I understand it the city went into the pot services for homeless people here. There are never enough services here for the homeless. ...If we can't trust that, what can we trust?

Scott:  During the times we had discussions, these questions came up quite often and we learned some important facts: 18,000 homeless, and 15,000 coming back from the war. Many of them will be displaced. Many of them will be homeless. For the last couple of years the mortgage3 companies have been lowering down their rate.. ...that will add many many thousands of people onto the homeless list. As we are in a true depression,,k, ...as the laws ...overpopulation in the prisons as required that those people will be released. ...We are in a major depression... while we talk about whether we should be negotiating with them at all.

Ruth: ...One person is a moderator, one person is a stacker, one person takes notes, [[and] we want you to come up with a list of demands.

10:21 pm [THE ASSEMBLY BREAKS OUT INTO GROUPS].

10:57 pm [REPORT BACK POINT PERSONS GO TO STACKERS].

10:58 pm [TOMORROW AT 4 PM, WEST STEPS, THERE WILL BE A MEETING FOR ISSUES ON THIS GA].

BREAKOUT GROUP RESPONSES TO THE CITY PROPOSAL

11:00 pm, Lucero:  We did not come and Occupy for 52 days for some office space. ...I've already tried that route. ...to bring the issues out into the light and to point [our] finger at those.... ...let's make it if we are going to continue in this space... ...let's make some real demands. [On] transparency... ...we want to grow... ...we must heal the wounds that have happened... which did not happen in transparency... ...the GA where we would actually make some decisions.

11:03 pm Emily and ??:  ...one thing [we] said was "look at the big picture" ...the homeless issue has been here for a long time and we need to ...bigger issues... ...and we not to .... ...if they want to talk to us they need to come to the GA that way it won't be [the case where] he said, this, she said, that. Some ideas are... ...right now Occupy has a big stronghold... ...teenagers like us. Once you have [them] you have won.  ...We have to think of [their] future because that's what they want: More transparency in business, free healthcare, stop mortgage foreclosures... ...we need to use the media... ...we want to reject that offer... ...[HE STEPS IN] I don't want to accept this offer and we are smart ...we can pull out every bit of... ...we're smart enough to figure out a plan, let's not refuse it outright just yet. My group will meet tomorrow at Union Square... make it bigger. ...They said that we could stay here and we want to bind it.

Julia:  [BRINGS UP HER CREW TO SHOW A COLLECTIVE PROCESS WAS MADE] This is a message to a group of people that were not represented. [SHOWS ANOTHER DONATION]. Julia:  ...we have made a ...that discussions have not been made from a place of power... ...We refuse... ...One of our group said that she heard ...coming from the city. We said that we heard the proposal but it doesn't go far enough. ...Other members who have had discussions with the city and the LAPD, ...who have undermine our trust. ...Mario and Scott. Because we have to be clear about who is representing us... ...we're saying that we want solidarity... ...that if this movement gets raided, then it gets raided... ...we call [upon] the city council to resign. We have never.... ...the reason that they are talking to us is becsuse we have power. ....huge set back not just in  thios city but in the country ,...and we have to be bold. ...and we also suggest that other cities [join us] because this is a class struggle. On December 12th there's an action authoried by the GA. Stop police repression and support workers rights to organize... ...and that the City and LAPD have broken .... lied to us, so we cannot trust them to say anything in good trust. So the constitution is... We are calling on people to mobilize people to participate to have more working class people here to have more organized labor here... ...we need organized labor and working class to defend, us to speak for us.

Nora:  We reject the demand flat out. We need to stay and we need to hold our ground and have them drag us out of here. The City Council needs to talk to the GA... ...we also think this space shouldn't be based on the movement it should be based on the ommunity ...if the movement is not about the 99%. We need to think about  strategy and we have to think about a military action. We also need to think about the safety of this movement. ...a shelter... we need to stand together and not take the crumbs that are offered... we want back Central Farms... ...because we need to grow our own food. food supply... also call for a moratorium on foreclosure and a judicial review. and the City of Los Angeles to divest from Bank of America, and Wells Fargo. [SOME ONE YELLS CHSE]...We must stand together, organize because we are the 99%. We have to solve our internal problems, food, shelter, and water. ...to the bigger building request we should take a page from what London did to UBS. Occupy London has taken over a building owned by UBS and they have turned it into a community center. for... we have skilled people here that can do... ...We have doctors, dentists, people who can grow food. ...

Lori:  I [will] try to represent the views of everyone in my group. ...decide to accept it on their own; what's that going to do to us and the GA. Another, ...that we take possession of the building without a lease. ...another suggestion that we ...ask the city liaison. ...the city to ...we also demand that there be no raid regardless of the proposal. Also mentioned is the most powerful thing we need to do ...hold on and fight for our right to assemble and our right to free speech. ...being restricted... ...to be practising our First Amendment rights we neeed to restate that... ...when the raid happens... ...we need to have a clear image in the minds of the public ...moral authority to accomplish our goals.

Bill:  Everyone said what we [discussed] ...we'd like to accentuate. we have a list of demands, that we keep them as simple as possible. ...We do not have time to educate the 99%... ...all of the 99% may not comprehend yet. For all of these demands that we support Occupy Wall sTreet [and their goals]. Juan: I caution you that if you play with the system you may overturn the system. If you fight with them you will get bloodshed. If you occupy the building illegally you will get bloodshed. ... fight with those stupid [a.h.].

Questions about where... ..are there any negotiators here now. We think they should be here now. .Transparency, 

Jared:  I want to thank all those people for coming into groups and getting all of that information. We will transcribe all of that information and bring it to the meeting on the West Steps at 4 pm tomorrow. See you all tomorrow at the next GA tomorrow night.

11:36 pm:  [CHEERING AND APPLAUSE, THE ASSMBLY CHANTS "WE ARE THE 99%" SEVERAL TIMES].

Pages