JANUARY 7 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Moderators:  Cheryl and Michele Milner.

Stackers:  Michelle Shocked and Sean.

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

INTRODUCTION

7:38 pm, Mario:  [READS 'CIVIC ENGAGEMENT MISSION'] Our mission is to educate and empower people to engage in hands-on democracy in order to individually and collectively take strategic actions to identify and address the root causes of local, state, federal, and global issues of social and economic injustice and concern.

7:39 pm, A man, Volunteer:  [READS EXAMPLES OF CIVIC ENGAGEMENT]  Community Problem Solving; Volunteering and Community Service; Active membership in groups or organizations; Voting and Encouraging others to vote; Displaying buttons, signs, stickers in support of something or someone; Campaigning and Political organizing; Demonstrating, Protesting, and Marching; Boycotting, Striking, and supporting strikes; Canvassing; Contacting and meeting with Officials and Elected Representatives.

7:40 pm, 'Mama' Ruth, Volunteer:  [READS DEFINITIONS OF 'CIVIC' AND 'CIVIC ENGAGEMENT'] Civic Engagement is individual and collective actions designed to identify and address issues of public concerns. Civic is defined as:  Of or related to the duties or activities of people in relation to town, city, or local area.

7:21 pm, Cheryl:  [READS OUR 'PRINCIPLES OF SOLIDARITY']  On September 17th, 2011, people from all across the United States of America and the world came to protest the blatant injustices of our time perpetuated by the economic and political elites. On the 17th we as individuals rose up against political disenfranchisement and social and economic injustice. We spoke out, resisted, and successfully Occupied Wall Street. Today we proudly remain in Liberty Square constituting ourselves as autonomous political beings engaged in nonviolent civil disobedience; and building solidarity base on mutual respect, acceptance, and love. It is from these reclaimed grounds that we say to all Americans and to the world:  Enough!  How many crisis' does it take?  We are the Ninety-Nine Percent and we have moved to reclaim our mortgaged future.

7:22 pm, Cheryl:  Okay, and then, the actual Principles [of Solidarity] that we are used to reading are: Through a direct and Democratic Process we have come together as individuals and crafted these Principles of Solidarity which are points of unity that include but are not limited to:

Engaging in direct and transparent participatory Democracy;

Exercising personal and collective responsibility;

Recognizing individual's inherent privilege and the influence it has on all interaction;

Empowering one another against all forms of oppression;

Redefining how labor is valued;

The Sanctity of individual privacy;

The belief that Education is a human right (Teach all children! Teach each child! If you've never seen that before up there, check it out);

and then the last one is, Endeavoring to practice and support wide application of open source.

7:45 pm, Lucky:  [READS OUR 'STATEMENT OF NONVIOLENCE']  We are an open, participatory, horizontal, Democratic, escalating peaceful and nonviolent movement. We are not a leaderless movement but a movement of leaders. As a nonviolent movement we have agreed to refrain:  From violence against any person; From carrying weapons; And, from the destruction of property. We reject violence including property destruction because we recognize that it undermines popular support. It discourages the broadest possible participation among the Ninety-Nine Percent. We believe that nonviolence promotes unity / strength of message in an environment in which everyone's voice might be heard. We affirm that it is the personal responsibility of every individual participant in our movement to promote and maintain:  Nonviolent Discipline and the Code of Conduct; And, to intervene, to prevent violent action by anyone in our movement.

7:47 pm, Cheryl:  Is there anybody new to Occupy LA? ...anybody who's new, come on down.

7:48 pm, Jonathan:  My name is Jonathan. I am from East LA and I've been thinking about this but I never came. This is my second time. I came yesterday. [CHEERING AND APPLAUSE].

7:48 pm, Luka :  I'm from Venice, California. I'm actually here with my dad. [CHEERING AND APPLAUSE] Nice to be here? I don't know.

7:49 pm, Cheryl:   We do have to go through the Hand Signals. What is the symbol for: If you like something? [POP QUIZZES THE ASSEMBLY ON HAND SIGNALS, THE ASSEMBLY RESPONDS]... ...What if somebody is repeating themselves or taking a long time? [DONALD BEHIND MODERATOR INTERJECTS WITH NEW HAND SIGNALS:  Sorry-to-interrupt-but-if-you-don't-like-something-please-do-this-so-somebody-can-tell-the-difference, If-you-have-a-concern, If-you-don't-understand, You-know-what, Can-we-please, I'm-only-asking, we-passed-it-at-the-Facilitations-already-just-so-you-know] Donald can we keep this for another time, we have a set that we agreed upon. Thank you Donald. You can bring it up at the Facilitations. We can agree on it later... ...and then, if somebody's Out of Process? [DONALD INTERJECTS:  That-would-be-what-I-just-did], [SOME CHUCKLING].

7:50 pm, Michelle Milner, :  Our group started out at the University. We meet every ... ...nonviolent Strategy. Our mission is to offer strategic guidance that promote nonviolent action that... ...the OWS.... ...OLA Objectives and Demands... ...we are hosting a meeting on January 21st from 9 to 1 pm. It's a morning of reflection and dialogue. [EXPLAINS SIGNS, TINY TENTS].

7:53 pm, Mike, Occupy the Vote California:  committed to taking back the vote... ...civic engagement,... ...starting ballot initiatives.. ...that we can empower the people and bring real direct democracy so we can bring real... ...

7:55 pm, Cheryl:  [EXPLAINS OCCUPY CONGRESS]... One reason why it got started... you know the NDAA got passed, Dianne Feinstein... ...often what happens is... ...the banks and congress pass a bill... ...get introduced.

7:56 pm, Cheryl:  Occupy Congress at Home is a... ...the action will occur during business hours on the week... ...President's day... ... in their districts... ...to have a large presence in the street outside their offices...

7:58 pm, Michelle Shocked [QUICK-TEACH CHORAL SINGALONG]:  [MEN(chkins):  We-occupy-we-occupy / we-occupy / we-occupy (2X)], [(daisy)WOMEN:  Weee're-th'99% / 99% / 99%. Weee're-th'99%, we Ock You Pie].

8:01 pm, Cheryl:  [CALLS FOR READERS OF THE 'STRATEGIC PLAN' DISCUSSION TOPICS] Can I get three volunteers to read?

8:02 pm, Donald, Volunteer:  [HE READS] Often activities and organizations start projects with a lot of passion but fail to reach their goals. Sometimes it is because they never stop to decide what success looks like before beginning their work. In other cases well meaning advocates get sidetracked by tangents and on dead end projects that seem worthwhile, but ultimately do not end in achieving their goal. How do you know what you or your group should be trying to achieve? What are the values that will guide you on the path there? Where are you now? And, What are the steps along the way? These can be bewildering questions if you do not have a 'Process' to think them through systematically. That 'Process' is one of the most powerful, that an activist or organization can engage in, but it takes time and effort to accomplish. Do not take shortcuts on your project by ignoring the crucial 'Process of Strategic Planning'. 

8:03 pm, Michele Milner:  Creating a Map to Reaching Goals. Strategic Planning involves setting goals and developing an approach to achieving those goals. In this process you define:  The political landscape in which you are operating; The beliefs and values of your organization; And, layout the key benchmarks to reach along the way. Development of a Strategic Plan significantly helps to clarify an organization's plans and ensure that key leaders are all on the same page.

8:03 pm, Cheryl:  And, since we're all leaders we all need to be on the same page!

8:04 pm, Cheryl:  And then, one more small section:  As with any management tool Strategic Planning is used to help an organization do a better job; specifically, to focus its energy to ensure that members of the organization are working toward the same goals and to assess and adjust the organization's direction in response to changing environment. In short, Strategic Planning is a disciplined effort to produce fundamental decisions and actions that shape and guide:  What the organization is? What it does? Why it does it? ...with an emphasis on the future. Many Community Based Organizations most often respond to Dynamic, and, even Hostile environments. Strategic Plans layout the best way to respond to the circumstances of the organization's environment. Simply put, Strategic Planning determines:  Where an organization is going? How it's going to get there? AND,  The resources needed to get there and how they'll know that they got there.

8:07 pm, Cheryl:  So, that's Strategic Planning and we need your help with the first two parts of Strategic Planning. We're going to break off into small groups, maybe four or five. That way we can ensure that everybody's voice can be heard. We're going to spend quite a while on this. There's a piece of paper we printed out for you guys. It goes over the goals on the front page and it asks "What are the goals of this effort? When we say "Effort", it can be a small action. It can be a small project. It can be a committee, project, or it can be something larger for all of Occupy LA or even for the entire Occupy Movement. It also says: "What are you trying to create through this effort? What do you want all this to add up to? What would 'Victory' look like? AND; What does this effort seek to accomplish, achieve, establish, and/or utilize?... ...What is the context of this effort? What is at stake? If we are out here doing what we do, what are we going to lose? What is going to happen if we're not here? What are the bigger things that are connected to this effort? What [are] the current social-economic-political landscapes we find ourselves in right now? This exercise is basically to figure out where we are right now, and where we want to go. When we have those two pieces of information, all we have to do is figure out how to get from here to there. So, go ahead and break out into small groups.

8:15 pm:  [ASSEMBLY BREAKS OUT INTO GROUP DISCUSSIONS].

8:30 pm:  [ASSEMBLY POINT PERSONS STACK UP FOR REPORT BACKS].

REPORT BACKS

8:50 pm, Janet [?Shanan?], 1st Group:  My group focused on ways in which to invite organizations that have been working for years to change the world, to join the Occupy Movement. The way we thought of doing this is through creating a document... ...design a document to get the attention of organizations and invite them to create a functional alliance. Second Question: We're trying to create a Rainbow Coalition in terms of the issues covered. What do we want this to add up to? Political might! United actions! The expansion of horizontal, participatory, and transparent paradigm that Occupy exemplifies. What would victory look like? Multiple organizations coming together at Occupy LA to design actions to change the system that oppresses the 99%. What does this effort seek to accomplish? We seek to have people leave heirarchical organizations and find their own voice and common voice in the horizontality of Occupy. We seek to accomplish: Expansion of the Occupy Base; Expansion of the breadth/depth of horizontalism; and, The context of this effort locally and nationally. [?As opposed to?] A political context of Aged Organizations that are heirarchical, opaque, divided and devisive-bickering-ego-led movements. The world context is the Arab Spring. What's at stake? If we do not grow, we die. Our rights are at stake. The survivial of the planet is at stake. We will become worker slaves! What are the bigger things connected to this effort? Occupy's entire outreach efforts and Internal Organizations. The current socio-economic etcetera [?model?] etcetera [LAUGHING] is growing power over our lives and the life of The Planet.

8:52 pm, Kimberly, 2nd Group:  What are the goals of this effort? One of them is General Strike Preparation:  The goal is to shut everything down. Occupy our Food Source: The goal is to have people produce their own food. Create the Narrative to end Corporate Greed. And, another goal has to do with just getting more people involved; How do we get 20,000 people involved in a meaningful way? [WHISPERS: TWENTY MILLION; LAUGHTER]... ...What are we trying to create through this effort Raise Awareness. We need a large number of people. We need to have a deeper understanding. We need to have people commit to actions. We need to gain allies inside the system. AND We need to change the way people think. LA's a rich city that has a high rate of homelessness.

8:55 pm, Dan, 3rd Group:  What are the goals of this effort? Democracy to the people. Brainstorm and build a new economic model for society. Direct action to take back money from the banks and return it to the people. Education about how the world really works. AND, Continue to educate the public about moving their money to credit unions. What are we trying to create through this effort?  A new paradigm citizen engagement at the local level. Create a world that is sustainable, environmentally, politically, economically etcetera. What would victory look like. Banks stripped of the power to control the quantity of money in the marketplace. Money removed from campaign.politics. Human progresss is a real priority! Corporate, government and all personal accountability. What does this effort seek to accomplish, achieve, establish, and/or utilize? Utilize its specializations as a nation and primarily as a people. Return to the 'Strength of the Leader' example; the potential that we used to have. Find democracy that is relevant to this time.  CONTEXT: What is the context of this effort? We live in a world full illusions. [HE ADDS: ya'know-like-that-song, AND HE SINGS: we were born to be alive, LAUGHTER]. We live in a world where human made systems are promoted as Natural Law, and we are forced to be dependent on corporate and monetary control [WHISPERS: Euphemisms are like that]. Okay, What's at stake? [EXCITEDLY, LOUD] The whole ecosystem! [MORE PASSIONATELY, LOUDER] Our children's future! [GRANDSTANDS KNOWLEDGABLY, LOUDEST] Humanity's very existence!  Possibly World War Three. Losing our rights-genocide [PAUSES AND ADDS SARCASTICALLY]... Get it? [CHUCKLING AND LAUGHTER]. What are the bigger things that are connected to this effort? Sustainability. Peace. Corporatocracy/Corpocracy. Basic Freedoms, Human Rights. Finally, the last question: [SUPERFAST] What is the current socio-economic political landscape we find ourselves in right now? Say that ten times really fast [MORE LAUGHTER]. A divide and conquer society. A landscape of runaway globalization. A landscape of lies, illusion, and deceit in an effor to control and subdue dissent. Thank you [HOOTING AND APPLAUSE].

8:59 pm, Issa, 4th Group:  What are the goals of this effort? To get money and corruption out of politics and 'the Fed'. End of corporate personhood and corporate control of govenment. Bringing to justice those guilty of fraud that resulted in the current failed economy. To create visibility for these issues among the general population. And to expose media bias,and the control of media by corporations. What are we trying to create through this effort? A government for the people and by the people. A fair and just economic system. Global unity. And, the working together as a planet for the good of the planet and the entire human race. Stronger social services and support for all citizens. What do we want this to add up to? Real change in government. A more inclusive Democracy. A stronger sense of community across the 99%. More jobs for all those willing and able. Solidarity, Freedom of expression and the eradication of consensual crimes. By which I mean anything that's illegal but does not harm the person or property of another, such as: Smoking marijuana, Prostitution, Gambling, Homosexuality in some circles etcetera etcetera [ASKS: What about medical marijuana?, SHE ANSWERS: ALL KINDS!] What does this effort seek to accomplish, achieve, establish or utilize?  The establishment of a People's Congress to ratify a petition for redress of grievances to our government. To strengthen social resistance to consumerism, commercialism, and mass media. A focus on self reliance for the production of food. Transparency and clarity of legislation in the legislative process and an end to corporate influence. What is the context?  Corruption at the highest level of government. Economic Failure and human suffering. Privatized Prisons and a de facto Police State. Lack of effective social services. What's at stake? The preservation of personal freedom for all humans. True, free, and fair trade. A just economy and economic success. The environment...

9:05 pm, Cheryl, [ANNOUNCES]:  We're going to be holding Strategic Planning Sessions every Saturday, from 1 to 3 pm. So if you want to get further into this on your own project or on these bigger issues, come out and join us. Do you know where PCU meets? Four blocks from here at, At 118 Winston Street, the Art Studio.

9:05 pm, Joe Serra, 5th Group:  What are the goals of this effort? To get the word out, to canvas and knock on doors into the neighborhoods. To go onto radio stations. To create a larger power base. To use symbols and badges such as flags that say 99%, Occupy LA... ...Talking in schools and maybe Venice Beach. What are we trying to create through this effort? A better society. Real Democracy. More equality. A banner workplace. Workers rights. What do we want this to add up to? No more fore profit jails. No more wars. [HE YELLS] No more Fox News. Free Education. What does victory look like? Full employment. A fair tax. A transparent government. A healthcare system. A beloved community. L:ocal communes. Green and renewable energy. A healthy planet. What does this effort seek to accomplish? To utilize the Internet.

9:09 pm, Luka, 6th Group:  What are the goals of this effort? To get money out of politics. Correct our corrupt monetary system. Also, to basically change the face of America forever, and to eventually change the world. The movement also aims to make these issues publicly know, also to make it more easy for the average person to get involved. We also want to bring up the issues of Global Warming and Militant Aggression thoughout the world. What are we trying to create through this effort? We want to create a New Democracy that actually is by the people and for the people. We also want to make a system where the corrupt individuals of society get what they deserve. We also want to make sure that the world gets the same New Democracy as America will hopefully get. We also want to ensure our Future Existence and we and to essentially save The Planet. What do we want this to add up to? We really want this to add up to an overall movement for change that tries to  right as many wrongs as it can. To right the very socially destructive wrongs that currently plague Our World. We hope for a Snow Ball Effect. That will win changes through policy and a systematic movement that will go about delivering true justice to all people and not just to a select group. We also want to make sure not to lose Our Cool and to lash out too much but to instead lead by peaceful example. What would victory look like? Real change in the world that addresses all the major gripes that the average person has with society as well as the government that rules over them. [CHERYL YELLS: DONALD CAN YOU KEEP IT DOWN BACK THERE, JEANIE ANSWERS FROM SOMEWHERE IN THE BACK: SO SORRY, SO SORRY]. We also need to break down false realities and propaganda and instead create a more inclusive society where we overlook arbitrary differences and to emphasize a great good to counter the presence of great evil that currently infests our world. What does this effort seek to accomplish? There are a plethora of problems that need to be solved, primarily the issue of people being able to do work that not only benefits society, but also actually matches the best of their abilities as well as their interests. We also want to utilize nature and all its natural resources in a way that can help our society without damaging it. We want to live mutualistically not parasitically with 'The Earth'. There also has to be active questionin of propoganda and the various things the government tells you. What is the context of this effort? A failed economic system and an excessive amount of human suffering as well as environmental suffering and the fact that the government has failed us in actually supplying us with what we want it to supply. What's at stake? If things keep going the way that they are going; essentially, every thing is at stake:  Our environment, our political system, our economy, and our overall mental attitude. The very potential and progression of humanity is limitless, but currently we are being held back with what could essentially be an infinite set of possibilities for our future. What are the biggest things that are connected to this effort? Technology's impact on jobs with regards to how it's putting various people out of business. There must be a way to keep these people still employed regardless of technology's influence. There are examples of participatory, ideal societies that we could and should emulate on a larger scale; namely certain small scale ones that can be seen in India. This also shows how helpful it could to uncomplicate our society and to just be more practical and use our common sense and just have mentality of doing things for the sake of human decency and not just for the sake of profit. What is the current Social-Economic-Political Landscape that we find ourselves in right now?  We live in a social system that has emphasized our arbitrary differences, I.e.: Race, Religion, Class, etcetera; and these divisions have turned us against each other while blinding us from the real foe, which is the system that has emphasized these arbitrary differences in the first place. [MASSIVE CHEERING AND APPLAUSE].

9:19 pm, Cheryl: [APPRECIATIVELY] Thank you guys very much. Thank you for your time. I know it's really cold. I can see my own breath. What we're going to do is do our committee confirmation and I would love for this GA to confirm us as a Committee. [SHE READS] To be an Occupy LA Commitee you have to be horizontal, democratic,... ...regarding civic engagemen related activities. We also... ...demonstrating, protesting,  boycotting canvassing. Our mission is to educate and empower people... ...statement is to individually, to identify and address the root causes of. OccupyLA@civicengagement.com That's where we'll be posting our minutes. We meet Tuesdays at 6 pm at Pitfire Pizza and then, on Sundays we do an online... ...Esteban must be watching and he texted me to... ...call me tonight. We have to do the confirmation. Can you guys confirm us?... ...and then, if we have to do it again, we'll do it again... ...Then we're going to open it up for committee announcements. and if you have an affinity group. [A COUNT] Fifty three, okay, thank you for coming out on a very cold night.

9:23 pm:  Today is the 99th day of Occupy LA so maybe we can do a 99% chant[THE ASSEMBLY CHANTS: WE ARE THE 99%!].

9:25 pm:  [FROM NEW YORK TO LA OCCUPY THE USA].

9:25 pm, Melissa, Stay Occupied and Production:  ...get the message to the people peacefully... ...advance of the occupation and don't ever quit. Everybody that got shot out of a tree and everyone that is sovereign. We want to Stay Occupied. Power to the Peaceful!

9:27 pm, Shawn:  Facebook.com OTVSA.  The first thing we want to do is against Citizens United.

9:28 pm, Michelle Milner, Ethics Committee:  The Ethics Committee is taking comments on Campaign Finance Reform... ...we should get our own opinion voiced... ...[CHERYL: I WENT TO THE ETHICS COMMITTEE MEETING WAY UPSTAIRS, THEY ARE ENCOURAGING PEOPLE TO WRITE INT THEIR FEEDBACK]

On Friday at the Sheraton Auction.Com is going to be having another auction. We're going to be meeting  at 9:00, Friday the 13th at Pershing Square... ...and when the police come in to avoid a... ...This is an issue that a lot of people

AFFINITY GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS

Lucky, Project Shenanigans: I will be right over there after the meeting

Spread the word verbally, I have a list, but I am going to Occupy. If anybody knows some housing. It's not just me but it's a lot of people. If you want to sign up

Anabella: Monday and Tuesday we have a court date. Please we don't want anybody to get kicked out. We have to be respectful

Cheryl: On Monday, 210 west Temple on the 47th floor. If you're interest please see us. I got my activism started in that courtroom [SHE POINTS AT NORTHWEST CORN CITY HALL].

Dan: Tomorrow ..North Hollywood to discuss articulating the vision of Occupy 2.0. Another is occupy the parade. Speaking of people's parade, I spoke to one of the coordinators. For instance the perception of people. If you have your story, your stories are important. So if you want to share your story. 

Cheryl: It's an Occupy Martin Luther King Day Parade.

I just want to urge people to come for Emily at 9 am, Division 51 at 1 pm. Please keep you cellphones off and your hats off, and no filming. I want to see if other people can come.

Sergei: At the Orange Grove Quaker meeting. Sunday classes 520 East Orange Grove in Pasadena.

Michelle Milner:  I want to say we really brought it together.

Michelle Shocked:  [GIVES A SINGALONG].

JANUARY 4 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Moderator:  David Haas.

CoModerator:  Sarah.

Stackers Tiffany and Dave.

Time Keeper:  Eddy.

Note Taker:  Hae.

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

INTRODUCTION

Today is the 96th day of our occupation. We start our GA off with a Solidarity Clap. We're...

7:44 pm, Sarah, Facilities Committee:

7:46 pm, Cheyenne, Occupy San Diego:  I'm Cheyenne, and I'm from Occupy San Diego! [LOUD CHEERING AND APPLAUSE] I'm in LA just visiting friends but came to Occupy LA and I thought it would be good to [compare notes] from here and take it to Occupy San Diego to like how GAs work better. [MOD. YELLS; MIKE CHECK IT!]... [CHEYENNE BELLOWS ENERGETICALLY] I came to Occupy LA so I could take notes to Occupy San Diego to help GA work better and more efficiently.

7:47 pm, Sarah:  Do we have a volunteer to read the Statement of Non-Violence.

7:49 pm, Melissa: I'd like to read a statement of nonviolence. I've been told so.  Statement of Non-violence. We are an open, participatory, Democratic, horizontal, peaceful, and nonviolent movement. We are not a leaderless movement, we are a movement full of leaders. As a nonviolent movement we have agreed: to refrain from violence against any person; from carrying weapons; and, from destruction of property. We reject violence including property destruction because we recognise that it undermines popular support and discourages the broadest possible participation among the 99%.we believe nonviolence promotes unity, strength of message and an environment in which everyone's voice might be heard. That's your Statement of Nonviolence, and Seattle loves you.

7:50 pm, David:  Mic Check! Now can we have someone read the Principles of Solidarity.

7:51 pm, , :  Principles of Solidarity. We are the 99% and we have moved to reclaim our mortgaged future. Through a Direct, Democratic process we have come together as individuals and crafted these Principles of Solidarity which are points of unity that include but are not limited to:

Engaging in direct and transparent Participatory Democracy;

EXercising personal and collective responsibility;

Recognizing individuals' inherent privilege, and the influence it has in all interactions;

Empowering one another against all forms of oppression;

Redefining how 'Labor' is valued;

The Sanctity of individual privacy;

The Belief that Education is a Human Right; and,

Endeavouring to practice and support wide application of open source.

We are daring to imagine a new socio-political and economic alternative that offers greater possibility of equality.

7:53 pm, [ANOTHER] Sarah, [READS DISCUSSION TOPIC]:  What do you need as an Occupier to fully participate in Occupy LA? What will make you come? What will make you feel safe to participate? What do you need, to have your voice heard?

7:54 pm, Sarah, CoModerator:  Mic Check! Before we break [out] into Discussion Groups I will just describe what that usually looks like. Normally you get into groups of about five to ten people; but, if you feel like getting into a group of just three, go for it. Discuss the topic amongst yourselves; appoint someone to take notes; and then at the end of the discussion period, we would ask that you appoint someone to report back. ...We'll have about five people share what their group said. Go for it. 

[THEY BREAK OUT INTO GROUPS ALONG THE WEST STEPS OF LOS ANGELES CITY HALL].

8:17 pm, Sarah:  I think it is important to explain why we do what we do... ...some people are terrified to get up and speak in front of a large group... ...when those people are allowed to have a saFe place... ...a more intimate space... ...will feel more comfortable to speak to the GA... ...with that said it is now time for Report Backs.

REPORT BACKS ON FULLTIME PARTICIPATION OCCUPIER NEED$

8:20 pm, , 1st Group:  ...forming Affinity Groups or SubGroups... ...opening a community space... ...so that we can safely open dialogue and such... ...occupy the metro... ...what did you do today. Autonomy or Annihilation, What did you choose today... ...like patriarchy so that people can

8:22 pm, Jason: 2nd Group:  ...discuss the subject... ...a little more broadly about the movement. Several people longed for the days when we had a camp... ...several people... ...such as transportation, funds for transportation; how important car pools are; not only does it... ...but... ...you make friends... ...other concerns give that some people's life, busy as, it is... ...so that people that have jobs...

8:24 pm, Hae, 3rd Group:  three or four timers, so we didn't discuss our discussion topic, but what it is to be an Occupier. [A MAN TAKES PEOPLE'S MIC]... ...we talked about Occupy really referring to transformation... ...that believes in our Principles of Solidarity... ...personally I think it is important that we think about this question... ...and we can spread this message to people that don't necessarily see themselves as Occupiers.

8:26 pm, Bruno, 4th Group:  ...it's not possible for other people to make it to every GA... ...actions are good to get people inspiered. Promote through KPFK... ...there is frustration with all the negative energy of back and forth discussions, and get people to take a deep breathe... ...at the Rose Parade, no information was available for newcomers on how to get to GAs... ...a welcome card... ...like the Welcom Tent... ...half hour before the GAs to [INDOCTRINATE] the new people.

8:28 pm, Suzanne, 5th Group:  ...we focused on what would make us feel safe at GAs. Most people... ...a place where we didn't feel caged in... ...a lot of people are still feeling uncertainty. They don't feel... ...people are wondering what's in it for them... ...a lot of people still need to be helped within our group... ...people at hom... ...creaating chaos because they don't have solutions... ...at home... ...another idea... ...people... ...vent... ...maybe before GA. That's all.

8:33 pm, Sarah, Our Moderator:  I can sense a general feeling of focus, we should all acknowlege that.

8:34 pm, Dele:  6th Group:  ...the successes and the victories that we are making in the courts... ...media committee present in the court... ...tell the people what is happening in those courts... ...that Occupy LA should be more functional... ...has a lot of International... ...International issues. We supported the idea... ...Shell... ...by Candace and... ...that a lot of people gathered today with a new kind of energy... ...for 2012.

8:36 pm, Elise, 7th Group:  WE'D FEEL SAFER IF THE POLICE WERE PROTECTING US INSTEAD OF CORPORATE INTERESTS... ...that was uncomfortable to a large group of people and the ratio is changing... ...making sure when out of GA... ...we are in fact in Downtown LA and there are always the same people going to parking lots, metro stations... ...we also discussed, listening, coming from a place of responding, and not reacting... ...more sharing in group discussions... ...compassion empathy and love with discussions with people in and out of our movement... ...that we don't get distracted from our greater goals.

8:39 pm, 8th Group:  no cursing, no aggression, show empathy and respect. Do more than watch. Express concerns when you see disruptive behaviour...

8:40 pm, 9th Group:  ...debate without conflict and emotion. We want to have conversations without name calling and people talking over each other. We talked about... ...suggested that the most quiet people had the most to say... ...how consensus... ...and sometimes one person with a hard block can derail... ...and make people not... ...civility in general... ...a healthy environment for everyone is addressing people smoking in GA.

8:43 pm, Sarah:  [TEACHES/DEFINES HAND SIGNALS]... ...the first is from Emily who has a court case tomorrow and has some pertinent information.

EMERGENCY ANNOUNCEMENTS

8:48 pm, Emily:  My court case is tomorrow. I'm in trial for three misdemeanors. November 17th, if you saw me get arrested...  or have footage or can tell me in your perspective exactly what happened; because the cop that testified today, what he said that happened, didn't happen. Also an African American gentleman was pulled from the crowd on the side on broadway, November 17th. The cop was saying that everybody that was on the sidewalk was fine. There's video footage of them pulling him out of the crowd. So if anyone knows who he is, I know his face but I don't know who he is...[SHE DESCRIBES]...African American gentleman. He's a little shorter than him [POINTS TO 'BIG MONEY'] pretty attractive, a little musclee [LAUGHING]. November 30th, if anybody knows Charles Florenza's number, he said he would testify as a witness. Again if you he saw me getting arrested on November 30th. A lot of the cases from November 30th are getting dismissed because the Disbursal Order was issued over on Los Angeles [Street]. A lot of the people were over hear on Broadway. I personally never heard the disbursal order. If you can talk about the general rumors going around the camp at the time of the raid, the fact of the matter is we had the Mayor and the City Council's support; and then they raided us. Also, the Sunday before the raid, if you guys remember that, there were people laying down in the streets, they didn't get arrested, so all of a sudden people get arrested for laying down in the streets just because we had less support. Also, if you know who... ...Lawrence Zeis's number, that's another one. So, if you can be a witness, or you have footage, or you can show support, this case has a possibility to set a precedent if I win. The public defender said "It's a maybe" [ONE STEPS UP WITH LAWRENCE'S NUMBER] Please come if you can tomorrow. It starts at 9:30, this building right here [?SHE POINTS?], 7th floor, Department 51[ONE ASKS:  What's your name?]... Emily, Emily Francis, and I represent The People and everybody else. [ANOTHER ANNOUNCES ALOUD] Her name is going to be under 'Jane Doe' so look for 'Jane Doe' on that chair.

8:53 pm, Leone:  ...this is a follow-up to what Emily was saying...a dozen cases have already been dismissed... ...we really need more court support. 9:30 am, Criminal Courthouse,... ...9:30, Division 51, Criminal Court House, 7th floor. DJ's trial is going on across the hall from Emily's in Division 46... ...so please come tomorrow at 9 am if you can. I just

8:57 pm, Michael:  Tomorrow night at... ...ILWU meeting in San Pedro... ...there is a planning meeting on Saturday and Isaac has information about that... ...ILWU Clerks.

8:58 pm, James:  Tomorrow night on these steps...A nonviolent communication... ...compassion... ...that's from 6 to 8 pm tomorrow. Also, Shell...

9:09 pm, Sarah:  ...Proposals

PROPOSALS

9:00 pm, Sarah:  The first proposal is Occupy Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Will you please read the proposal.

9:01 pm, , :  Wellness is asking for the Occupy Los Angeles's endorsement, and participation in a march and rally against corporate controlled HealthCare. OLA would be participating in solidarity with California Health Professional's Student Alliance and a campaign for a healthy... ...These coalitions are rallying to pass healthcare Single Payer Healthcare [Senate Bill] 810, the California State Healthcare Bill Act. Approximately 300 single payer activists and 400 will medical and health professional students will rally in Sacramento on the same day in support of this bill. Supporters in Sacramento will march to California's State Capitol Building. Supporters in Los Angeles will march to insurance giant Anthem Blue Shield. 8th and Fiqueroa. How, assemble at Pershing Square, at 11 am, on January 9th. March to Anthem Blue Shield at 810 Fiqueroa Sstreet. March will be themed as a New Orleans funeral procession live Jazz Band and added props. There will be a public Speak Out!... ...Why, healthcare is a human right. SP810... ...will save Californians $345 billion... ...would deliver Healthcare to everyone while insurance companies... ...and deny healthcare to others... ...attention must be drawn... ...remove corporate control... ...half of medical... ...debt... ... had health... ...died directly due to lack of insurance.

9:06 pm:  [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED].

9:07 pm, David:  The next proposal is the Occupy DC Roadtrip.

9:08 pm, ,Occupy DC Roadtrip:  This proposal started in Long Beach... ...if we the Occupation of the Los Angeles Area, we should chip in and get a motorcade and end at Washington DC for the... ...Congress... ...we need the commitment of the Los Angeles General Assembly... ...but we need the approval to get these prices... ...

9:10 pm, David:  Do we have any concerns or questions of clarity.

9:10 pm, Point of Process:  I feel like a proposal like this needs a dollar amount otherwise we'll be bankrupting ourselves without knowing what we are doing. To put in perspective the amount it would cost to take your average bus across the country and back would be approximately $2650, each bus for gas only. It's going to cost a lot more than that for four buses. We're talking about more money than the movement has.

9:11 pm, Sarah: [ASKS TO MOVE THIS PROPOSAL OVER TO THIRD PROPOSAL OF THIS ASSEMBLY SO THAT THE PROPOSER MAY OBTAIN HARDCOPY FOR HIS PROPOSAL IN PREPARATION FOR THE ARISING CONCERNS ON THIS HIGHLY CONTENTIOUS PROPOSAL]. [NO TEMPERATURE CHECK WAS TAKEN AND NO CONSENSUS WAS REACHED].

9:12 pm, Sarah:  The next proposal is 'The Re-Assert Our Right to Protest' proposal.

9:12 pm, Jessica, Proposer:  Hello! I am not a cop! [SOME LAUGHING, SOME CLAPPING] but I am proposing a statement that's been online for three days... ...ListServe... ...What! A statement by Occupy LA in the spirit of constant public protest calling for a year of struggle among all communities and across all issues to unite against State Sponsored Reppression and assert the inherent right of The People to assemble. [It is] to be realeased and placed upon our website as a resolution for the year 2012 and distributed by all social media, public relations, and media teams as a communique in solidarity with other Occupations throughout the world. [It is] to be distributed in other languages to those engaged in struggles for labor power; and to different neighborhoods and varying organisations. How! Is this statement: Occupy Los Angeles in solidarity with the Occupy Movement asserts our right to live, work and organize peacefully and politically without repression. On October 1st, we assembled together to explore and create collective will to address the various special interestst that have taken hold of our governing processes. We stand together again at the dawn of a new year to reassert our dedication to developing a peaceful, nonviolent, resistance movement in Los Angeles and neighboring cites in California and throughout the world. Our efforts to organize and petition for justice were met with the following measures utilized by the LAPD, City Attorney, Mayor, and City Council; THE COMPLICIT SUPPORT, if not, express coordination of the Federal Government. ONE! Restrictions on individual and commercial free speech and Press including the selection of a Media Pool. TWO! [AND SHE CONTINUES READING A LONG LIST OF ABUSES]... ... NINE! The private contracting and institution of a re-education course on the First Amendment. TEH! A full scale paramilitary operation to remove Occupy LA from Solidarity Park paid for by taxpayers but orchestrated by the LAPD, City Attorney, Mayor, City Council, and the support, if not, express coordination, of the Federal Government. ELEVEN! The CIA's refusal to process the Freedom of Information Act Request exposing what rule, if any, they played in the orchestrated evictions of Occupy encampments nationwide. TWELVE! And final one... ...we hope to expose upon the world... ...the intent to silence... ...oppress... ...harrassment... ...intimidation... ...as a direct response to... ...a year of struggle... ...to unite against state sponsored repression and assert the inherent right of the people to assemble...[MORE]. ... by Striking on MAY 1ST.

9:27 pm:  ...Free Speech Zones... ...free speech is being criminalized... ...by holding peaceful individuals... ...the indimidation of... ...willing to engage... ...10 a full scale paramilitary operation to remove Occupiers... ...of the Federal Government.... ...12 the concession of basic civil liberties... ...by special interests. We... ...and move to notify our... ...representatives... ...explicitly documented rights... ...at the hands of our... ...the growing discontent... ...to unite against state sponsored oppression... ...we will stand in solidarity with each other... ...to re-establish these rights and mobilize... ...please join us to demonstrate... ...by striking on May 1st. Organize!... ... 

9:32, Franchesca, RESTATES HER PROPOSAL:  a call for your struggle because we had a crackdown on our civil liberties. 12 points...

9:33 pm:  [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED].

[SARAH ASKS THE FIRST PROPOSER TO RESTATE HIS PROPOSAL WITH FRIENDLY AMENDMENTS].

9:35 pm, Alan:  The Occupy DC RoadTrip Proposal. The Occupy... ...from January 10th to January... ...will travel United States... ...How, to rent two to four buses... ...additional travel services... ...Why,

[THERE WERE CONCERNS BY NESTOR, DONALD, AND MICHAEL].

[THROUGHOUT THIS PROPOSAL PRESENTATION THERE WAS CHUCKLING AND ISOLATED COMMENTING].

[FACILITATORS AND A NUMBER OF MODERATORS FROM PREVIOUS GENERAL ASSEMBLIES BREAK OUT].

9:46 pm, Big Money:  [GIVES A SOLIDARITY SONG] Happy New Year!... ...banks got bailed out, we got sold out... ...Occupy Wall Street to Minnesota and LA [THREE TIMES]... ...[LOUD CHEERING AND APPLAUSE].

[THE PROPOSAL WAS TABLED].

ANNOUNCEMENTS

9:49 pm, Beth, Web:  Global Revolution which is the media team for OWS got arrested. Lucckily they've been released... ...not worrying about spending money... ...the web site has been growing, we have 4,000 members. We're ... ...looking for people with druple experience... ...web development, pictures... ...Japanese Blogger... ...if anybody has... ...multicultural blogs... ...I also built our web... ...media page... ...i can give you status to build your own website or help you...

COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

9:53 pm, Jeanie:  ...Vancouver... ...the broke down the cost for Vancouver... ...how much did we save this city in housing, medical costs, water; and, we break that down... ...and tweak the [ ] out of it.

9:55 pm, , :  ...outreach is important. Occupy the Hood... ...talked about outreach a lot... ...I've heard a lot about... ...for outreach... ...and write... ...

9:56 pm, Michael, and  General Strike Preparation Committee:  ...based on the approval of the GA has established a number of subcommittees... ...we had a meeting Saturday... ...about 80 people... ...the next meeting of the entire ... ...will take place next Saturday at noon, at Corazon del Pueblo, 2003 East First Street, in LA. We are planning to reconvene... ..

I am also a member of that committee. Yesterday... ...an LAPD, stopped their car and got out, and asked a question... ...this morning they had an informal check point. They... ...and this was their way of welcoming... ...their new law that says that the cops cannot confiscate the car... ...Cesar Chavez Avenue and... ...one of the attorneys of the people that got arrested... ...12 o'clock.

Kelly, Resources:  Our... ...was accepted by the State of California... ...we are going to open an account... ...we consensed on a new mission statement. We consensed on a new... ....which ... ...Our next meeting is next Friday at OccuBucks... ...at 6:30 pm. We meet four times a week...

10:04 pm, , The People's Collective University: ...My co-Teacher is ... ...Why Don't They Care About Public Education... ...why they don't fund education any more. [HE SPEAKS]. ...we're discussing a lot about what education really means. It's about.. ...because this power structure that exists of teacher and student is detrimental not only to... ... so we invite you to become part of that... ...the class is from 2 to 3 pm, at 118 west Winston. It's a gallery...

10:-06 pm, Joan, Resources: ...including a Tea Committee, but not a party... ...meeting Mondays, 6:30 pm on these steps... ...today was the first day that we held an Occupy SoCal Call... ... I need you support, your participation... ...we did a consens... Occupy Critical Mass... ...which will take place... ...Long Beach,... ...starts at 1 o'clock. bring some friends.

10:08 pm, Elise, Actions:  We're having an action committee meeting Friday at 4:30 pm, at StarBucks...

10:10 pm, David

10:11 pm, Barry:  ...our main project is to get a united... ...building.... ....however several of the groups which will be making up the... ...technically a... that will be meeting this Sunday at 9 pm, at the Poncho Villa,... ....on May 1st, come to that meeeting... ...the Occupy has played a role in gettin... ...for the same day for the same cause... ...hopefully... ...

AFFINITY GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS

10:13 pm, Shakti and Rolando:  ...I'm going to Jalisco's first if you want to go with me you have to be out there.

10:14 pm, Rolando:  ...we got the support of the community over there... ...I heard this Occupy Movement doesn't do as much work as it can do.. ...you have to be proud... ...this took less than one month... ...it's beautiful to see how the community responds... ...

10:15 pm, Shakti:  I'm working on the People's Platform... ....hopefully get people to join us. .. ...I going to be talking about that platform tonight... ...I'll be at Jalisco's after the GA... ...see how this platform this far...

10:16 pm, Anthony, Keep'n It Real:  ...I noticed that the Principles of Solidarity that we leave out... ...'acceptance and love'... ...so now I want everybody to reach out to their neighbor and give love... ...shrooms brought me to the realization that... ...corruption and greed, and that we are truly the heroes... ...and we do keep it real... ...we are too legit, too legit, too legit to quit! Keep'n It Real.

10:19 pm, John, Newspaper Occupied Los Angeles Times:  ...It's real. We got it out under challlenging circumstances... ...let me offer ten seconds of silence so you can concentrate on what it would take in getting it out... [10 SECONDS OF GA SILENCE].

Soren, Occupy Minnesota:  ...and I came out here for the West Coast Port Shutdown... ...InterOccupy calll... ...and they were hoping... ...on the call... ...you may not know that there is an additional action planned... ...with Occupy Cale... ...and Occupy ... ...call to action. If you're a member of the... ...they ask you to take... ...it was a resolution... ...ILWU rank and file and bring that to... ...shop steward... ...to pay for the... ....transpired... ...to Longview and Occupy Calets... ...that $5,000... ...is something you might be able to... ...the needs to... ...there will be buses or caravans from Longview.... ...The range ship to dock is from January 20th to February 20th.

10:26 pm, Nestor, Queer Affinity Group:  We are meeting up this Saturday at 1 pm, at Plumber Park... ...Lavender Coalition. Go to our website. QueerAffinityGroupOccupyLA... ...something to do with the Smithsonian Institute....

10:27 pm, Lucky, Project Shenanigans: ...Occupy is bigger than City Hall, is bigger thatn the Financial Districts, is bigger than... ...I will be having a meeting right over there....[points].

Sky ...news announcements... ...Mayor Villaraigosa was reported in the Los Angeles Times and I've confirmed this with LAPD... ...they're not getting overtime... ...there's an opportunity here, like I said this is not a popular thing. I don't know how you think about that, I just want to put it out there.

Elise POINTOF INFORMAtION. ...additionally unpaid. So, Mayor Villaraigosa is saying "Doesn't get them paid."... ....they will be paid and getting even less.

10:32 pm, Sky There is another bill going throught he hous of Representatives... ...hostile to... ...they could have their citizenship removed and... ...NDAA, possible craziness.

10:33 pm, Emily, Structure Working Group SubCommitte of the Coordination Group is having a meeting at Jalisco's after the GA.

DECEMBER 28 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Moderators:  Sarah and Richard.

Stackers:

Time Keeper:

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega

INTRODUCTION

7:38 pm, Sarah, Facilities Committee:  Today is number 89 of the Occupation.

7:43 pm, Concerned:

7:44 pm, First Nighter:

7:45 pm, Sarah, 

7:45 pm, A Man:  [READS OUR 'PRINCIPLES OF SOLIDARITY'].

7:46 pm, Friend in Blue:  [

7:47 pm, Woman [ON THE STEPS]:  [READS OUR 'STATEMENT OF NONVIOLENCE].

7:51 pm, Seraphim:

7:52 pm, Advocate for the Arraigned:

7:54 pm, Questioners:

7:55 pm, Seraphim:

7:55 pm, Advocate... :

7:56 pm, Individual Announcer:

7:57 pm, Richard:

7:57 pm, Sarah:  Now is the time for discussion groups... ...

7:58 pm, Karoline:  Now I'm going to read... ...[SHE READS]...

8:06 pm, Sarah:  [ANNOUNCES 'AUTONOMY' FOR DISCUSSION GROUPS OF TEN].

8:06 pm:  [THE ASSEMBLY BREAKS OUT INTO GROUP DISCUSSIONS].

BREAKOUT GROUP DISCUSSION TOPIC: AUTONOMY

8:31 pm, , 1stGroup 1:  In our group we felt that it's important to preserve the solidarity that our movement has and to protect it from...

8:32 pm, Joel, 2ndGroup 2:  We also talked about the balance between autonomy and solidarity... ...sometimes there are people that get on the news and saying things for the newspapers... ...we aren't the Tea Party. We are not the Democratic Party... ...total autonomy and we reject...

8:34 pm, , 3rd Group 3:  It's necessary to make... ...in autonomy... ...autonomy helps us... ...focus on local issues... ...rais a support level even higher. Shakti... ...the last measure for autonomy, vote.

8:36 pm, , 4th Group 4:  We oriented our... ...autonomy is good... ...autonomy in relation to Occupy... ...people who spoke for the movement without the GA's approval. We didn't like that kind of autonomy... ...we liked the part where they said "They will influence each other". ... ...and we spoke about how Autonomy should not become Automatic... ...repetition, except on the People's Mic.

8:38 pm, , 5th Group:... ...the relationship between OWS and Occupy Los Angeles... ...different problems... ...New York and Los Angeles... ...how to change laws... ...institutions... ...how we need to work within or without... ...a suggestion to elect a 'Black Suit' Party... ...playing the system from within... ...discuss in the future of possibility producing a political candidate

8:41 pm, , :... 6th Group 6: ...autonomy is about independence from outside movements... ...it is about our independence in our... ...there is a question of whether you represent OLA... ...a new definition for community.

8:43 pm, Donald, 7th Group 7th: I did something different. I went around and tried to find as many groups as I could that I could get some input from... ...this was an autonomous action on my part. What I got from people if I can try tosum it up is that autonomy... ...to do so without stopping someone else from... ...sovereignty is not... ...we  an agree on certain things without agreeing on everything... ...is not the same as making actions for... ...and none of the... ...should be in the name of the movement.

8:44 pm, Sarah:

8:45 pm, Karoline:  [INTRO

PROPOSALS

8:47 pm, Richard:  We're going to talk about transparency. Basically we want... ...fundraisers... ...What? All revenue rasising activities... ...to the GA, ... ...contact Resources Committee... ...posted to a list that will be maintained... ...for example Occupy Los Angeles dot org, Los Angeles GA Dot Net etcetera, etcetera, etcetera... ...etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. Why?... ...and resources thinks that it is important... ...for example a Hip Hop Benefit was promoted... ...and advertised on... ...this was not... ...at our GA. This was not a problem; however,... ...contact Resources with a plan where they will... ...to the GA... ...but this is not... ...limiting... ...[8:53 pm]...

8:54 pm, Steven:  To paraphrase [ANTHONY YELLS "NO!" (PROCESS)]... what he means is...

8:08 pm, Steven:  [BEGINS TO READ A PROPOSED AMENDMENT].

8:09 pm, Sarah: ...the point of consensus making is that we craft ideas together... ...make our ideas the best that they can be. So with that said, if you have a Hard Block you should be prepared to... ...why you are... ...also you should state why you would walk away from the movement if the proposal were to pass.

[THE ASSEMBLY PREPARES TO TAKE A TEMPERATURE CHECK].

9:11 pm, Richard:  Is anybody here going to Hard Block?...

9:13 pm, First Hard Blocker:

9:14 pm, Sarah:  It appears that we have another Concern...

9:15 pm, First Hard Blocker:  The wording of the proposal is so intimidating that... ...instead of... ...it's worded like [HE DRAMATIZIES] if you go ahead with the event! We're going to sue you!...

9:16 pm, Steven: ...I will Table this tonight so that we can have a better consensus...

9:18 pm, Sarah: ...Steven... ...so find him. Okay the next proposal...

9:19 pm, , Occupied Los Angeles Times:  So the proposal is for coming up with $750... ...Why? So that... ...How? Print a four page paper... ...So issue II will have... ...arrests... ...a piece on money in politics... ...a piece on media distortion... ...So, give us the money... ...$750 will give us 10,000 copies.

9:21 pm, Sarah:  ...open stacks for Questions on Clarity...

9:22 pm, Bruno:  I want clarifications on Occupy the Hood...

[JOHN ANSWERS]...

9:24 pm, Bruno:  In my experience...

9:25 pm, Prospective Contributor:  ...articles... who can I see?

[JOHN ANSWERS]...

9:26 pm, Barry:  In view of the problems of publicizing and writing for it... ...

9:27 pm, Sarah:

9:28 pm, Questioner:

9:29 pm, Freedom:  [FRIENDLY POINT OF CLARIFICATION (OUT OF PROCESS)].

9:31 pm, Sarah:  Okay, questions on Clarity have concluded [SHE OPENS STACKS FOR CONCERNS AND TAKES A TEMPERATURE CHECK].

9:32 pm, Karoline:  I don't like money... ...free printing...

9:33 pm, Clarifier:  ...for the deadline of the third issue.

9:34 pm, Dylan:  My concern is that 10,000 people is not enough... ...if we publish on the Internet, it would cost no money and reach in to the Global...

9:34 pm, Clarifier:  Is it now that only one person decides what articles go into the paper?

9:35 pm, Ed:  Who are the customers? Who is the circulation going to? Are we going to be preaching to the choir and is it really going to have that much impact?

9:36 pm, Clarifier:  

9:37 pm, Questioner and Clarifier:  ...so my concern is that this Committee is that

9:39 pm, : ...you said you wanted to distribute to the Rose Parade... ...is it going to be ready?

9:40 pm, John:  [ANSWERS].

...address the structural and transparency issues... ...so there were three editors last time... ...although one is in Europe at the moment... ...meetings will be well publicized. Hopefully more people will be brought in... ...I can't agree at all that we should only use the Internet... ...30%,... ...some people can't get on the Internet let alone afford it... ...lastly about the seven of the thirty-one... ...most of the... ...are actually Occupiers... ...as opposed to the people who are writing.

9:45 pm, Sarah:  ...[RESTATES THE PROPOSAL]... ...Temperature Check.

9:46 pm: [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED].

9:47 pm, Anthony:  To move the location of the GA for a special occasion... ...This is the What. Friday December 30. will be held ad Pan Pacific Park on the 3rd Street corner... ... and... ...will be asked to meet there instead of Solidarity Park... ...this is the How... ...This is the Why... ...Free Speech Zones suck. I don't really like it here where we're being watched by cops...

10:08 pm:  [TEMPERATURE CHECK, ONE HARD BLOCK].

10:08 pm:  [FRIENDLY AMENDMENTS PROPOSED].

10:32 pm, Anthony, Proposer:  [READS THE PROPOSAL WITH FRIENDLY AMENDMENTS].

10:33 pm, Freedom, With Concerns:  [CALLS: PROCESS] You said that if there were any concerns you would Table it. I had a concern so you're supposed to Table it.

10:34 pm:  [TABLED].

10:35 pm:

INDIVIDUAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

10:38 pm,

10:39 pm, Ashley, Occupied Los Angeles Times

10:40 pm, Alyssa

10:41 pm, Omar:  The people have the power...

10:44 pm, Barry:  ...We have an anti-Imperialist... ...5th Fleet has been intervening... ...Iran... ...sovereignty... ...get people's views etcetera etcetera and get people's opinion... ...opinion. Scott Walker is the... ...215 people were at the Los Angeles Convention Center... ...Alyssa... ...will be in Newport Beach as a member of the 400 Club... ...Governor Walker is going to be at the 400 Club at 5 to 7 pm, at 4040 ...

Z:  I will be handing out at Rose Parade, Casting Sessions.  We will be... ...if you have talent in that department. If you have political awareness... ...we will be having a casting session tomorrow. It will be... ...at otrpCasting@gmail.com.

10:49 pm, Shakti, Association for Autonomous Nationhood [NEW]:  ...basically a declaration at Wall Street... ...our demands.... ...if you don't want to vote for the Democrats or the Republicans... ...you can... ...we're going to meet next Wednesday, late night after the GA at Jalisco's.

10:51 pm, Chase, Occupy Boston:  I can't tell you how good it is to be able to have an outdoor GA without risking Hypothermia. I also want to say that the process at Occupy LA is just as frustrating... ...liaison between the two Occupations... ...as much as the GA a works... ...it would be nice to have a Physical body to... ...messages for all of you. The outstanding message was simple. Solidarity! We stand in solidarity with you... ...we love you. I love you all... ...Please let me know if you'd like to get messages... ...I can get you physical addresses to real people. Also, please introduce yourself to me. I've been at Occupy Boston for a long time and I would like to make some friends.

10:55 pm, Sarah:  The last announcement.

10:55 pm, , :  ...out of 48 confirmed guests only two showed up... ...we watched 38 new homes become 14... ...the next action is going to be a week from... ...we need like 25 people to substantially slow down or to end these auctions... ...The next one here is Friday the 13th... ...stop the foreclosures... ...it's about taking it back

10:57 pm, We are the people 99%ers everywhere we go people want to know so we tell them we are LA 2X Occupiers we plan to regulate... ..educate all the people about the recession about the depression banks got bailed out we got sold out. from new york to LA Occupy USA 3X Solidarity Clap [THE ASSEMBLY CLAPS].

DECEMBER 21 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Moderators:  Vanessa and Esteban.

Stackers:  Rush and Rudy.

Minutes Taker:  Dennis de la Vega.

INTRODUCTION

7:41 pm, Esteban, Facilities Committee:  Today is day 81 [CHEERING AND APPLAUSE].

7:42 pm:  [OUR 'PRINCIPLES OF SOLIDARITY'].

7:45 pm:  [OUR 'STATEMENT OF NONVIOLENCE'].

7:47 pm:  [RAPPER REVIEW].

PROPOSALS

7:52 pm, Barry, Labor Committee:  James Moy who is the organizer for California Nurses Association/National Nurses Union... ...That Occupy LA join striking nurses at Long Beach Memorial Hospital Complex, 2801 Atlantic Avenue in Long Beach, Tomorrow, 122211 from 7 am to 11pm, as well as endorse similar nurses strike against Sutter System in Northern California.... ...Especially at noon Rally. Transportation details given... ...They want to cut back on ratio of nurses to patients as well as detour around the law re-staffing through changing rules... ...by functionally making nurses work through their breaks, if they want to... ...they’re going to be having their health care taken away... ...charging high amounts for healthcare, amongst other attacks on nurses rights and conditions.

7:57 pm:  [STACKS ARE OPENED FOR CONCERNS].

[A ROUND OF CONCERNS]

8:09 pm:  [CONSENSUS WAS REACHED].

8:10 pm: ...the first thing we need to do is talk about it. In your groups... ...First question: How do you envision the General Strike; what does it mean to you, how do you see it... ...and what will you do to make the General Strike a success... ...you break out into  groups of about ten...

8 13 pm:

REPORT BACKS FROM BREAKOUT GROUPS

...

...

ANNOUNCEMENTS

8:54 pm, Vanessa: ...

8:55 pm, Esteban: ...we're going to open up stacks

8:56 pm, , Occupy Our Homes [NEW]: ...needs a ride tomorrow morning to help save his home. A volunteer is desperately needed... ...call this number (404) 931-4888 ...

8:58 pm, Lisa, Media Committee: ...Media's been doing a great job building some infrastructure... ...we have a meeting tomorrow at Pitfire [Pizza] and a another meeting on Wednesday at 838 West Washington... ...information on how to interview... ...email OccupyLAMedia@Live.com

Aya:  The People's Collective University:  Our next class will be meeting on January 8th... ...if you need to see me I will be in the back.

9:01 pm, Jeff and Stephanie:  We have spent time talking to some of you... ...support groups... ...that some of our Brothers and Sisters are hurting both physically and emotionally... ...if you can help or if you need help please come see us... ...in times of need: Wellness.OLA@tmail.com

Mike, Food Committee: ...Christmas there will be a potluck if everybody brings food... ...it could be here or some other 'where'... ...wouldn't it be beautiful if we get kicked off the Archdiocese on Temple... ...by some dude named Jesus.

Freedom: ...I am personally interested in gathering with some of my Brothers and Sisters... ...on that day.

Omar, Occupy the Hood: Repeat after me [CHANTS: WHO HAS THE POWER. THE PEOPLE HAVE THE POWER]... ...LA Can Office... ...our plan is to have an excellent visit to our lovely Mayor's pad. We're not sure how it is going to turn out unless all of you get together: 530 South Main Street... ...OmarOccupyTheHood/OccupyLA@ 

Art is having a rally in support of... ...the current art communities... ...held on January 16th: ArtsEdu@gmail.com

9:08 pm, Cali, Resources: ...Our meetings are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at the... ...is about getting the Occupy

9:10 pm, Dan, Occupy the Rose Parade:  ...CNN and NBC have covered us... ...Spencer Mills the number one LiveStream guy in the country will be here...

Not only will we be Occupying the Rose Parade, but we're going to be Occupying the Air-Waves... ...sign up:  we need people to hold the banners, peacekeepers... ...sign up with one of us.

9:12 pm, : ...I did this in 2008... ...200 million people watching globally... ...and you can sign up to participate on the web site.

Eddie, : ...I need some people to call in... ...teleconference... ...if you go to wwwInterOccupy.org you can get the information, you can get the times of when the conferences will be... ...one being monitored in Oakland at about 12 pm and one at 2 pm...

:  ...Steven!... ...here's what I know... ...Court Room Support... ...it's part of the N30... ...over there [HE POINTS TO SUPERIOR COURT BUILDING]... ...Department 40... ...thanks for your being there and for your support...

9:17 pm, Barry:  The second and fourth Sunday meetings will not take place on Christmas... ...new time to be announced... ...we will be meeting in January ... ...coordinating... ...May 1st annual march has been from  Olympic to Broadway... ...up to here at City Hall... ...also we'll participate and hopefully make it as big and as broad by getting Occupy LAs involvement in planning etc.... ...First weekend meeting at a future General Assembly... ...Sunday meetings at Casa Poncho Villa, 2100 South Maple Avenue, near San Pedro Street, across from Santee Education Complex.

Beth:  We had our first meeting today [WEB]... ...we're going to be having classes on Social Media... ...we also did an Action today... ...we shut down the Egyptian Consulate... ...we also had a visit from DHS... ...the police had to meet us... ...follow their story and get some Actions... ...[SHE CALLS FOR OCCUPY HIP HOP AFFINITY GROUP]... ...as an Affinity Group... ...we decided we can appropriate money... ...$200 is going to Occupy the Hood... ...$200 is going to go to the Christmas Party... ...$100 will go to the next benefit to pay for flyers... ...and proper advertisement so we could get ten times the people and hopefully get ten times more money... ...[SHE ALLOCATES OTHER MONIES]... ...can I have someone from Resources Committee to take this money off my hands... ...Quinto del Sol... ...DJ Indigenous... ...[AND READS A DOZEN OTHER DJs AND ARTISTS]... ...if everyone agrees to this... ...could I have a temperature check? [YELLING: "PROCESS"]...

9:29 pm, :  Tomorrow 10 to 12 pm, Mayor Villaraigosa is going to be taking pictures in there [SHE POINTS AT CITY HALL]... ...just thought I'd mention that [LAUGHING].

9:29 pm, Richard:  [ON SOLIDARITY WITH EGYPT TO STOP POLICE BRUTALITY].

9:30 pm, Esteban:  [CHANTS, ASSEMBLY FOLLOWS CHANT].

9:31 pm, :  ...with the outrageous detention of our Brother Steven... ...raising awareness of political prisoners such as our Steven, Bradley Manning [NAMES SEVERAL OTHERS]... ...come see me and we can get this going.

9:32 pm, Brad, ‘Justice Against NewsCorp’ is the reason I am here today. I was the founder of MySpace... ...before NewsCorp and Rupert Murdoch decided to steal it... ...now they're teamed up with Google and FaceBook... ...I have a Federal lawsuit... ...thank you for your time to listen. I need to... ...so one of the largest corporations can be brought to justice... ...therefore, I have some handouts. I am willing to give stock for anyone who is willing to help... ...brought to justice... ...in... ...court... ...you can follow me on Twitter under the handle Occupy

9:37 pm, Sergei: ...the giant corporations have lost numerous trials pressed against labor unions... ...they had a case in Supreme Court...

9:39 pm, Esteban: ...Let me introduce the new youngest facilitator... ...seven years old.

9:40 pm, John, Queer Affinity Group:  If you like that beautiful blinking hat that Nestor is wearing [HE POINTS] come get one from Nestor. Come Friday evening to the 'Queer Posada', in Silver Lake... check the Facebook page. The Queer Affinity Group is organizing a Saturday queer themed GA. Please get in touch with John at waibling@yahoo.com if you want to get involved.

Josh:  I have said so much unheard or ignored... ...please read the Tribal Communist... ...page... ...I have a message for some other leaders [NAMES SOME LEADERS OF OTHER COUNTRIES].

OPEN MIC

9:43 pm, Damien: ...forgot my notes... ...do this solely from memory. There is an art show that is organizing around the Occupy LA Movement. The thing that... ...this from others... ...around 4 O'clock... ...three different time zones... ...this is to bring 1355 Westwood Boulevard on January 14th.

Lillian:  [ESTEBAN TRANSLATES: She says that after the meeting there is a... ...for Bikini Riot and Dancing... ...you do not have to wear a bikini yourself but... ...organize this bikini [tactic]... ...meet me after the GA

9:47 pm, Esteban

9:48 pm, Alyssa:  ...whether that is on [NAMES MEDIA]... ...we represent this movemenT... ...my dream is to truly have the 99% with us so long as we represent our principles [of Solidarity] they will come...

9:49 pm, Soren:  ...a couple of us came out from Occupy Minnesota to participate in the West Coast Port Shutdown... ...greetings thanks from Occupy Minnesota and we'll probably be here for a couple of days.