PR Tips: Committed People Move a Message

Committed People Move a Message

By Nicole Hayes

For more than three weeks, Americans have witnessed a collective increase of committed people joining in a movement to highlight wealth inequality in the United States. “Occupy Wall Street,” which protests corporate tax avoidance and Wall Street bailouts,  started with angry New Yorkers and now people in cities across the country are ‘occupying’ this message. The 99% are telling the 1% “we’re not taking it anymore.” The movement has gained widespread participation, with ongoing demonstrations in Washington, DC as reported in this video clip. Organized demonstrations have been primarily driven by social media outreach. So far the demonstrations have been relatively peaceful and it’s hoped this continues. Will their message of “we’re not taking it anymore” bring about desired results?

A similar question was asked when a committed and hopeful people sought change and it happened: The resignation of longtime Egyptian president, Hosni Mubarak—a decision fueled by millions of in-person and virtual protestors. These protests, though very violent, were the catalyst for giving the Egyptian people a chance at democracy and deciding their future. In this, and other instances (ex: Civil Rights Movement), committed people communicating the same powerful message can bring about change.