OWS is an acronym that stands for Occupy Wall Street. Originally coined in 2011, Occupy Wall Street refers to a series of protests and demonstrations centered around Lower Manhattan's Zuccotti Park, adjacent to Wall Street, in New York City. The movement aimed to protest economic inequality, the influence of corporations on government policies, and the perceived unjust distribution of wealth in society.
OWS symbolized a broader social and political movement against corporate greed and social disparities, bringing attention to the widening income gap and the global financial crisis that negatively impacted many individuals and communities. Participants, known as the "99 percent," protested peacefully, emphasizing the idea that power and wealth were disproportionately concentrated among a privileged few.
The movement utilized nonviolent strategies such as general assemblies, consensus-based decision-making, and direct action to advocate for change. OWS quickly gained national and international attention, inspiring similar protests in various cities worldwide.
While Occupy Wall Street did not present a unified set of demands or a specific agenda, it effectively raised public awareness and ignited conversations regarding income inequality and economic justice. The movement's legacy continues to influence social and political discourse, contributing to ongoing conversations surrounding wealth distribution, corporate influence, and the efficacy of grassroots activism in addressing systemic issues.
