Putting a Northeast face on Occupy Philly

Occupy Philadelphia is preparing to enter its second week and Tuesday’s noon-time crowd numbered a little more than 100 people.

Plain clothes police, reporters and the homeless mixed with activists on the plaza at City Hall. A number of Northeast Philadelphia residents joined the protest, all with different reasons.

Earl Refsnider of Lawndale is protesting the harsh treatment of the homeless by the government. “I am protesting the government screwing over people,” he said. It is getting harder and harder, as there are continued cuts in funding.”

Jodie Rizzo of Holme Circle joined to protest corporate greed and foreclosures. “It is unfair what is happening to working people when corporations are always getting the breaks.” She continued, “My mom is facing foreclosure even after working out a payment deal with the bank which she has kept up with.”

Jimmy Mlodzinski of Rhawnhurst came to help out making signs. “I like to help people, that’s why I am here.”

The Northeast Philadelphia residents protesting reflect the core of Occupy Philadelphia, all with different reasons for being here but with one common bound: frustration with the national government and corporate America. Events are planned through Oct. 15.

G.E. Reutter resides in the Fox Chase. You can visit him at his website.You can read his Fox Chase articles for NEast Philly here.

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