FLINT -- The “Occupy Together” movement that started on Wall Street continues to sweep cities across the nation. On Friday the grass roots effort moved to Flint.
Hundreds of people descended on downtown Flint for the event that started around 12:00p.m. on the corner of Saginaw and First Streets.
The group was protesting a number of things from political corruption and corporate greed to the lack of jobs in the area.
People chanted “we want change” over and over while they carried signs with messages of disenchantment they felt with America.
"People are struggling to pay their bills and they keep raising our bills," said Flint resident Stan Downes.
"People have to make a living. They have to have houses. They have to have some security,” said Swartz Creek resident John Apperson.
The Flint protest is part of a nationwide movement called “Occupy Together.” It started in mid-September on Wall Street and is now sweeping cities across the nation. The purpose of the protests is a little vague. The Washington Post is calling it “a leaderless movement without an official set of demands.” Whatever the case may be, one thing is clear, these people are fed up with the country’s state of affairs.
"I see too many people that are homeless, losing their jobs or homes and it shouldn't be that way, " said Clio resident Juanita Coleman.
"We are supposed to be the richest country, so prove it and help the poor,” said Downes.
"I think it's about time that American's stood up for their rights and make the corporate world accountable for they do especially to people lives," said Flushing resident Pam Bakken.
Flint is now one of more than 200 cities joining the "Occupy Together" movement over the last weeks.
State and U.S. leaders have referenced the protests but whether the demonstrations will make a difference remains yet to be seen.
"I think we have elected people to take care of these things and they should have some ideas and get them through. They need to work together,” said Coleman.
"I hope it makes a difference. I really do. What other choice do we have right now?" said Downes.
