The popular talking point in the media at large is, and has been, our economic deficit; how we got into this mess and who is going to lead us out of it. However, by focusing solely on this one deficit, we prevent ourselves from addressing the others from which we truly suffer.

To paraphrase Slavoj Zizek, we have, in this country, a deficit of participatory democracy, a deficit of critical thought and creative action.

The Occupy movement provided, and continues to provide, a creative way to engage in critical thought with our comrades and our communities. It also provides an avenue by which we may truly participate in democratic action, and thereby feel empowered. After 10+ years of actively organizing, it is THE MOST engaging and empowering effort I have ever been a part of.

Occupy provides the creative inspiration and direct involvement that feeds a movement for generations. It is, in its evolving manifestations, what I have been waiting for my entire life. That is why I occupy.