Minister Michael Ellick of Judson Memorial Church says that Occupy Wall Street is alive and well, though admittedly with a lower profile these last few months.
Lincoln Anderson reports in The Villager:
The 99 percent movement will soon return in a big way with demonstrations and events that will, once again, make the whole world stand up and take notice.
Since last fall, Ellick, 37, has been the leader of Occupy Faith NYC, a coalition of progressive New York City churches supporting O.W.S. Originally from Seattle, he has had a couple of past lives. He was formerly a public finance analyst for infrastructure projects, such as bridges and the like. For about six years he was a Buddhist monk. His understanding of economics and his spirituality seem to have meshed perfectly in his current calling as the “Priest of O.W.S.”
(Ellick said): “There are plans in place that I am not at liberty to share….This spring I really think there is going to be shock and awe. There’s going to be so many of us, and no one’s going to be able to look away.
“May 1 will be a big day,” he said. “It’s always a big day — but they’re really going to be going for shock and awe.”
The article addresses some of the growing pains of the movement. Ellick seems to be aware of the challenges facing the movement, both in continuing the presence and not becoming known simply for rebellion or violence.
A few weeks ago, there was what Ellick described as a “little pop-up Occupy” in Washington Square Park. In a trademark of theirs, the Occupiers even served free meals. But the event was marred by a bit of violence. At one point, rocks or bottles were thrown, he noted with disappointment.
“That’s the way this will die,” he warned.