In Shadow of Casinos, Occupy Atlantic City Struggles

By Matt Farrell

ATLANTIC CITY – One of the lesser-known Occupy groups in the U.S., Occupy Atlantic City, has had a tough start. After being denied access by police and Pinnacle Entertainment to the vacant lot where the Sands Casino and Hotel once stood, their daily picket campaign on the adjoining sidewalk has fizzled out. They are now holding General Assembly meetings at the city’s Korean War Memorial to find a new direction.

According to the group, widespread apathy, a lack of commitment and a population accustomed to oppression has led to their troubles in attracting new members and mustering enough demonstrators to make a statement. With this in mind, they have begun to consider what such a small group can do to help the people of Atlantic City and work together with the overall Occupy Movement.

Atlantic City is a unique place with unique needs. Occupy AC hopes to aid casino workers in improving their standard of living through collective bargaining as well as encourage the creation of more jobs and prevent the demolition of casinos, especially ones in historically significant buildings.

Atlantic City does not even have a supermarket. It’s a long-standing grievance that Occupy AC would like to see addressed.

Andrea E., who asked that her full name not be used, is a single mother of two who acts as facilitator at meetings and is heavily involved in their planning. She shared her thoughts on Occupy AC to date.