Tag Archives: DC

Good Jobs Better Baltimore was down in Washington, DC last week to support job creation and to pressure Congressional members into action around key issues that will move our economy forward.

The people’s camp on the National Mall was our home base for action. Despite a driving rain on two of the days — which turned the camp into a muddy mess — members of the 99% were in good spirits.

During out time in DC, we marched up to Capitol Hill, participated in an interfaith vigil, sat in Congressional offices, and rallied on K St. to show lobbyists we need to hold them accountable.

Each day had its own events and opportunities for people to speak their minds to members of the 1%. On Tuesday, we flooded numerous offices on Capitol Hill. Congressional leaders were surprised to see so many people demanding action on job creation and unemployment benefits. Activists expressed their frustration at a government that caters to special interests. People need a break, not corporations.

On Wednesday, activists marched from the camp up 14th street to K street — the seat of lobbying power in Washington, DC. Snaking its way through the streets, marchers stopped at Wells Fargo and Verizon locations to voice displeasure at their policies. Activists then blocked K St and arrests were made. The national media covered the march in story after story, as the 99% made a bold statement — we will not rest until we loosen the dominance of special interests on our government.

On Thursday, activists marched to Capitol Hill to visit Rep. John Boehner, the Speaker of the House. He would not meet with us on this day. After being asked to leave Longworth House Office Building by the Capitol Police, we moved outside to chant and hear stories in an attempt to get his attention. Staffers peered out windows to see what was going on.

After an exciting week of action, people from all over the country are heading back to their states to spread the word that the fight is not over, we need to keep the pressure up. We need to create more jobs and protect the middle class. This will not be achieved by cutting benefits and increasing tax cuts for the rich. It’s time for the 99% to get a break.

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