The Culture of Occupy Wall Street

Occupy Wall Street was a movement that began on September 17, 2001 against the powers of major banks and Wall Street’s fault in the economic recession. This movement has spread across North America, including 100 American cities. The occupiers have named themselves the 99%, who’s wealth continually grows in difference from the rich. Supporters of the movement seek a change in the unfair economy ruled by the world’s richest 1%.

The shared beliefs and values motivating the 2000+ occupiers was the basis of the culture which bound together the protesters. Occupy Wall Street’s organizational culture was based off the mutual agreement members shared on the unfair distribution of wealth, corporate and government corruption, and unemployment. Although the reasons for the occupation were negative, the environment was positive and supportive. Occupy Wall Street was born from the power of the protesters, therefore, the organization truly was the people. Although the measurable change created by Occupy is debatable, the inspiration and solidarity showed the power and potential of society. I believe the message and values the culture of Occupy Wall Street created was the change they sought.

Occupy Wall Street: To Big To Ignore

 

Citations

Various Supporters.”About.” 25 November, 2011. <http://occupywallst.org/about/>

Contributors. Wikipedia. “Occupy Wall Street.” 25 November 2011. 25 November, 2011. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occupy_Wall_Street#Organization_and_group_process>

Youth Empowered

I found Sonia Sidhu’s blog on Social Enterprise at its Finest, to show the growing trend in society to uplift and inspire youth.  Youth United will empower the young to believe in and contribute to the change they seek for their future.I find many of the social issues, Youth United, wishes to tackle in line with those of We Day.
Founded by Craig and Marc Kielburger, We Day sets to unite youth across the globe in a movement of positive change. Young people fill stadiums across the world all in support of the education and inspiration of possible change through the power of youth.

WE DAY

We, the youth, will become the leaders and the deciders of global change. I believe organizations such as Youth United and We Day are helping to shape the trend of empowering youth. They also entice more young people to become change makers and make tackling social issues ‘cool’. Craig Kielburger and Jyothindra Nath are both social entrepreneurs whom organize and create social ventures with the importance of youth in consideration. They are harnessing and uplifting a power which will undoubtedly affect the future.

 

Citations:

Sidhu, Sonia. Social Enterprise at its Finest. 21 November, 2011. 25 November, 2011. <https://blogs.ubc.ca/soniasidhu/2011/11/21/social-enterprise-at-its-finest/>

WeDay. 25 November, 2011.<http://www.weday.com/about>

 

CO2 Calculator

An online calculator which reveals the amount of CO2 being emitted from hot water use, has been made available for UK homes. Producers, Energy Saving Trust, states the personalized report will relate carbon emissions and the cost of the water and energy to the amount of water used in the household. 6% of the UK’s CO2 emissions are attributed from energy used in the water sector, 89% of which come from home and businesses. Energy Saving Trust also provides readers with access to energy and water saving tips.

By countries setting a tone towards the importance of sustainability, businesses are likely to follow suit. This online calculator is a great strategy for companies and households to make the connection between water and energy efficiency. UK businesses have the opportunity to capitalize on this online resource and recognize their corporate social responsibilities.

Sources:

Kinver,Mark. Water CO2 Calculator for UK Homes Goes Online. Science and Environment Reporter, BBC News. 16/06/10. 22/11/11. <http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/10310883>