'Occupy Detroit' Protest Planned For Friday
DETROIT (WWJ) - Up to 1,000 people are expected to protest in downtown Detroit on Friday in an effort to spread the "Occupy Wall Street" movement message.
Having gained its start a month ago in New York City, the so-called "protest against corporate greed" has since grown to include demonstrations in both large and small communities throughout the country.
Now, it's Detroit's turn.
In the wake of reports from across the country of demonstrations by American who are fed up with the condition of the nation's economy and the continue joblessness, what are Detroit Mayor Dave Bing and other city leaders are anticipating?
"No sure just yet. We've got [Detroit Police Chief Ralph Godbee] prepared for whatever that may occur," Bing told WWJ Newsradio 950's Pat Sweeting.
"We are working to ensure that all citizens are able to assemble and express themselves peacefully and in accordance with the law," Bing added later, in a joint statement with the Chief.
"Occupy Detroit" protesters are planning to rally in front of the Spirit of Detroit statue.
Other groups demonstrated earlier this week near financial institutions in downtown Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. A protest is also planned for Friday in Flint.
Meantime, a new survey out from Time Magazine found that 54 percent of Americans have a favorable impression of the protests, while just 23 percent have a negative impression. An NBC/Wall Street Journal survey, meanwhile, found that 37 percent of respondents "tend to support" the movement, while only 18 percent "tend to oppose" it.
