MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - Occupy Memphis protesters rallied downtown Tuesday, November 15, 2011. The group was speaking out and marching in support of protesters in New York City who were kicked out of their camp the night before. Those here in Memphis told abc24.com it's a matter of civil rights and they want their voices heard.
"We will not sit by and allow anybody to oppress our bothers and sisters any more,” said one protester.
Occupy Memphis supporters came out in mass to support of their counterparts in New York City.
"It's just not fair, it's personal property, it's a public park they have every right to be there doing their free speech," Becky Muehling told abc24.com.
Protesters in New York were removed from Zuccotti Park. The mayor, citing public health and safety concerns, issued an eviction order. Those here rallied at Civic Center Plaza. Newly elected district 7 city councilman, Lee Harris was also on hand to support the movement.
"It's important to organize, it's important to protest, it's important to tell you elected officials exactly what you think. So I appreciate them, I appreciate them for having a voice and making sure they're heard," Harris told abc24.com.
The group marched to the Civil Rights Museum, a tribute they said to preceding generations who fought for their rights. The same rights the protesters told abc24.com have been ignored in places like New York.
"We're not out here for hand outs, we're out here for reformation, we're trying to restore the democracy that society was founded on," said Tristin Tran.
