Occupy Sheffield ~ We are the 99%

The Shefield Green Party issued the following statement about Occupy Sheffield on 6th November 2011:

“The Green Party congratulates Occupy Sheffield and UK Uncut Sheffield in joining with 900 cities across the world to express their rage against bankers, corporations and crony capitalism. We understand only too well the depth of anger that has been generated by corporate greed, social inequality and a political system that seems incapable of doing anything to redress gross injustice. It is an outrage that those least responsible, such as the young and vulnerable, are paying the price for a crisis they are not responsible for.

The protesters represent a very wide cross-section of society, who understandably have not reached a polished consensus for their demands. Nevertheless, the fact that they have come together at all demonstrates worldwide resentment at how demonstrably dangerous traditional leadership is. These voices cannot be dismissed. We support their demand that financial systems must be reformed and regulated to uphold socially worthwhile, economically stable and environmentally sustainable values. Anything else is plain irresponsible.

When mainstream politicians and economists talk about growth, development, recovery and strength, the measures they favour invariably impoverish millions, weaken and deplete our natural resources and accelerate climate change. The Green Party stands with those who recognise that we must live within our planetary means and give people realistic prospects.

We need to recognise the unhappiness in societies that have great inequalities in wealth. It is good that churches say they are now committed to engage in this debate. However we recognise that the time for talk has gone and radical, non violent, change must be put into action. ”

Bernard Little

Co-Chair Sheffield Green Party