On Tuesday FIERCE participated in a non-violent action at the Future of New York conference organized by the city's business sector. They were meeting today to create policy recommendations geared towards "strengthening the city's economy." We came, along with other grassroots organizations across the city, to say that the people of New York (queer and trans youth, homeless, workers, immigrants...) were being left out of this very important conversation. No, we weren't invited but we went anyways to deliver a letter to our mayor so that we set up a meeting with him and share with him some policy recommendations that actually reflect community priorities for the city's economic future.
Unfortunately, eight organizers (one from FIERCE) were arrested at the Grand Hyatt hotel where the conference was held.
We thank everyone for showing community solidarity across New York City and also to stress that DEMOCRACY is NOT DISORDERLY CONDUCT.
February 3, 2009