Occupy Asheville’s future? If revived, make changes

Say it ain’t so, Joe.

Alas,  the informal group that spearheaded Occupy Asheville disbanded the local movement on Sept. 14 in a ceremony at Wall Street Coffee House and Emporium in downtown Asheville.

About 17 people met and agreed that the “small amount remaining in the treasury was distributed to several local charities. The checking account is to be closed, the website shut down,” according to Occupy participant James Latimore.

Only two or three of the 17 people who had gathered wanted to keep Occupy going. The group has been inactive for several months, as many of the former activists ran out of energy. 

We admire the never-say-die spirit, as expressed by Occupy member John Spitzer, who said that the group is dormant and could eventually return to action.

We also think that any revived Occupy would need to make some changes. For instance, we have yet to meet anyone around Asheville who likes to think of being “occupied.” Maybe the group could give itself some less threatening name?

On another front, it would be helpful to its supporters, or potential supporters, if Occupy were to clarify and narrow its focus and stance on issues. 

Occupy served a useful  purpose in bringing much-needed attention to overlooked problems and getting people active.