Reeling from what increasingly appears to have been a well-coordinated, nationwide crackdown upon Occupy encampments, the imminent question now facing Occupy Nova Scotia is, “What now?”
The notion of maintaining a communal space remains of paramount importance, and some have devoted themselves to finding an alternate living arrangement. Despite an open invitation from Eddie Carvery to come and Occupy Africville, the Africville Genealogy Society seems to have stonewalled the idea. Many of the Occupiers have been evicted into homelessness; with the first winter storm upon us, and camping clearly a police-enforced ‘no-no’ in park lands across the HRM, Occupiers are looking at indoor options.
Yet even without a home base, Occupy continues to outreach throughout the community. The group is showing films, many with a political twist, every Tuesday at 7pm at the Khyber. “U of Occupy” has attempted to set up outdoor structures and “free school” events at various campuses across town.
This Friday also marks “Buy Nothing Day,” which coincides with the post-American Thanksgiving kick-off of the Christmas shopping season. In celebration, Occupy Nova Scotia will open its larder and clothes cupboard, giving away many of the items not claimed after the police eviction caused many to flee and not return for their possessions. With no kitchen tent, and no communal space to prepare food, edible donations will also be distributed. Check for central locations on Dalhousie and Saint Mary’s campuses. On Saturday, a “shopping cart brigade” will be handing out food and clothing to along Spring Garden Road.
