Occupy DC: A Washington Protest for Justice

The Occupy movement was a social and economic protest that gained momentum in the United States in 2011. It continued from the Occupy Wall Street movement in New York City’s Zuccotti Park in September 2011. The movement opposes economic inequality, corporate greed, and government corruption. I took the images below of the Occupy DC protest in the McPherson Square (Washington) camp in November 2011.

Occupy DC protesters in their camp in McPherson Square (Washington)

Occupy Movement: Liberate Washington DC

The Occupy DC protest in Washington began on October 1, 2011, when a group of protesters set up camp in McPherson Square, just a few blocks from the White House. They set up tents, held general assemblies to discuss their goals and demands, and organized marches and demonstrations for justice and liberty.

The “99%” Divide

The protesters called themselves the “99%” after the economic divide between the wealthiest 1% and everyone else. They held daily meetings and demonstrations, and many participated in civil disobedience, such as blocking traffic and occupying public spaces.

The protesters’ demands varied, but they generally focused on issues of economic inequality and money’s influence in politics. They called for an end to corporate greed, a fairer distribution of wealth, and greater accountability for the financial sector and elected officials.

Protests were peaceful for the most part, but there were some clashes with police. In November 2011, the National Park Service, which oversees McPherson Square, began enforcing a ban on camping in the park. The protesters removed their tents and other structures. But many got arrested for refusing to comply.

The Occupy DC Protest Disbanded in 2012

The Occupy DC protest continued through the end of 2011 and into 2012. However, the movement gradually lost momentum as the focus shifted to the presidential election and other political issues.

The protesters eventually disbanded, and the park returned to its use as a public space. However, the Occupy movement had a lasting impact on public discourse and helped to raise awareness of issues related to economic inequality and corporate influence on government policy.