MTSU students march in front of SunTrust Bank during a Nov. 4 rally in Murfreesboro, Tenn. (TMP/M. KEMPH).
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More than 50 people with the Occupy Murfreesboro movement marched Friday around the Square to voice their grievances against nationally owned banks that have branches downtown.
Although several banks, including Bank of America, canceled plans to implement debit card fees last week, many of the protestors said the movement encompassed much more than objecting to transaction charges.
“This goes back farther than debit fees,” said Jane Walsh, who is also a member of Middle Tennesseans for Religious Freedom. “The 2008 bank bailouts went straight into vaults – not to improve the economy or help customers.”
Walsh said she was glad to see college students, as well as people of all ages, exercising their First Amendment rights, noting she has participated in various politically related events since she was in college.
“When you start having to make very difficult choices, you find your voice,” she said.
Several MTSU students who are active in on-campus organizations participated as well, including MTSU’s chapter of Solidarity, a student-run socialist organization, and members of Young Americans for Liberty, a student-run libertarian group.
“It’s time to take back what the banks have stolen from us,” said MTSU student Jase Short, who is a member of Solidarity.
Many cited the bailouts as an example of how the federal government is more concerned with corporate interests than the average American voter.
John Stefanski, who co-founded Occupy the Alter, said he attended because he believes Americans should look to God to help solve the nation’s problems.
“We must play the hand we were dealt,” Stefanski said. “Pray for our leaders. For me, this is not about making a political statement. This is about getting Occupy protestors to turn to Jesus Christ.”
Matthew Hamill, who has been active with Occupy Murfreesboro from its inception, said he was glad to see so many people attend the march.
“I’m excited and inspired,” Hamill said. “We had an excellent turnout and look forward to holding more events.” |
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