Occupy London: The solidarity movement is getting organised

The Occupy London movement, which protests against the extremes of global capitalism, prepares to become a permanent spot of resistance at London’s St.Paul’s Cathedral.

Today it’s been already the 4th day of protest and assumptions, that the silent stand-off would break up on the first day of work after the weekend, were disproved.

Activists already organised a canteen, toilet blocks and a first aid tent with medical care. Even a recycling can is deployed to keep the square clean. Others arranged a library next to their tent to share knowledge and exchange thoughts with everyone who comes by.

Inspired by the Occupy Wall Street movement in New York, people plan to keep the peaceful protest going on as long as possible.

People I met today were from all ages and professions – mostly going back to work during the week, but returning in their lunch break or on the weekends to support the assembly.

Watch our report about the community life behind the protest after the click:

Others who are not able to join the well-mannered group in front of St. Paul’s cathedral over night, provide the silent protesters with food, blankets and supplies.

According to David Ham at the campaign’s information center about 100 tents have been set up with about 600 people. He says people of “all classes, all regions, all cultures” have created an incredible community feeling, adding that “it’s democracy at its best.”

Visiting “Occupy London” today, I realised the extent to which the movement is affecting each of us. A million young people are jobless and not only they are gathering in front of St.Paul’s to make a statement.

Young parents fighting for a safe future for their children attend the peaceful assembly as well as working people who want to show that something is going wrong. “If we would have another way to get people listening, we wouldn’t choose to sleep on a cold ground on the streets”, says Floellia who joins the occupation since several days.

While the messages on the signs across the camp sound tough, the activists are very welcoming and open-minded to share their opinion. Polite debates and workshops are going on during the day and free hugs are offered to the visitors. Noisy group conventions have been replaced through smaller meetings to avoid clashes with the church and people clean up the square constantly to keep the peaceful coexistence alive.

I really didn’t know what to expect at the beginning, but in the end I was amazed by the well organized get-together and the large sense of community. Tourists are not obstructed at all and can visit St.Paul’s without any doubts.

Watch our report to get an insight into the community live behind the campaign: