Occupying America Is The Movement Of Many Leaders, Not Just One!

This past weekend I had the honor of performing for, and dialoguing with, some of the organizers of the Occupy Wall Street movement in New York.

It was an incredibly inspiring weekend that helped me understand why the Occupy Wall Street movement has exploded across the country, while at the same time frustrating so many of us that work within the traditional political establishment.

I’ve been working in politics for almost a decade and organizing since I was a teenager, so I’ve learned a great deal about how to challenge the system.

From organizing grassroots campaigns to consistently voting, I’ve always used different avenues to transform America.

During this time I’ve come to acknowledge the biases and privileges that influence my work and also the comfort I have working within the political system.

I’ve helped elect Presidents, council members and members of school boards.

I’ve developed legislation to reform our education and juvenile justice systems.

And I’ve personally seen the tremendous impact of nationwide organizing campaigns on the lives of countless children and families.

But despite all of this, I too am extremely frustrated by the level of greed and corruption within our system.

I too am angered by the high levels of unemployment across America and the growing disparity between 1 percent of the population and the rest of us.

(All photos courtesy of Damon Saylor)