American Federation of Teachers Local 1839, a labor union of NJCU professors, has endorsed the Occupy Wall St. movement.
“The local executive committee, the local’s governing body, endorsed the movement. The local’s leadership recognizes that the current economic and political system is broken,” said William Calathes, Executive VP of AFT Local 1839.
AFT Local 1839’s endorsement was announced as the occupation of Wall St. entered its fourth week. Labor unions from across the country have endorsed the movement such as the Teamsters, SEIU, United Steelworkers, and the Transport Workers Union Local 100. Some members of Congress have voiced their support including Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont along with the Congressional Progressive Caucus and Congressional Black Caucus.
“The movement is about a range of issues like unemployment. People feel like they have been cheated. Students are struggling while investment banks and the government with lax regulations, has contributed to the recession. Even though the recession is technically over it will take years to improve employment,” said Ivan Steinberg, President of local 1839.
“We admire all the people in the movement because of their commitment. They have shown moral and ethical leadership. We celebrate their attempt to organize working class people,” said Calathes.
Calathes has personal views about the movement and it’s significance, independent of the local as a whole.
“As an organizer I recognize the need to build coalitions and to have alliances,” said Calathes, “community building and the development of leadership will educate people to stand up and resist.”
Calathes has volunteered his time to help organize the movement and visits Zuccotti Park on a regular basis to continue assisting protesters.
“I’ve been involved in organizing the movement, creating working groups, and consulting student leaders. I’m there about 75% of the time meeting with protesters directly in the park,” said Calathes.
According to Calathes, the Occupy Wall St. movement is a great example of democracy reinvigorating itself. The failure by politicians to address issues important to working class people is a reason why this movement came about. Calathes believes there is a need to redefine our political structure and not rely on politicians but on working class people helping themselves through such action as the Wall St. occupation.
“Personally, I feel that it’s necessary to encourage the NJCU community to get involved,” said Calathes.
The future of the movement is uncertain, but Calathes believes that it is heading in the right direction.
“As more obstacles arise hopefully the movement will grow,” said Calathes, “the end result is not as important as the process. Whatever comes from it will be positive.”
On campus many students support the occupation.
“It has been over a month now and they’re preparing for the long haul. This dedication for the cause is what people are going to remember,” said Don Santiago, 19, an undeclared major from Bridgewater.
“Its a really good idea because we’re fighting for what’s right for us. We should keep doing it around the world to get what we deserve,” remarked Charles Sachetta, 19, undeclared major from Rutherford.
“There are obviously big problems in this country. These people that are participating in this movement are bring it to the attention to those who can possibly make a difference,” said Peter Joyce, 20, an accounting major from Jersey City.