Historically, poverty has been a problematic situation that has always been present in every nation in the world. Here in the United States, the light is shone on the vast divergence between wealth and poverty that, ironically, exists here in a country of enormous wealth. Following the government's bailout of major financial institutions and large corporations, combined with reports of large bonuses given to key staff who obviously did a terrible job, many people are now questioning the system which does not treat the vast majority fairly. majority of their citizens. The fact that these large multinationals and powerful financial institutions exercise their enormous influence on those who govern is a fact that can no longer be tolerated. The Occupy Wall Street movement, faced with these injustices, took to the streets to express their frustration against greedy bankers, malleable politicians, the influence of lobbyists and the domination of multinationals. The effect of this hierarchy of wealthy individuals has proven detrimental to the well-being of our nation and ourselves. The cry “we are the 99%” has become the signature slogan of a society calling for progressive reforms (Occupywallstreet.org). The voice of the people must demand that our government come together, represent the citizens of this country and commit to a positive outcome. The fundamental principle of a democracy is that it is based on the will of the people, who are sovereign and the government must respond to their needs. It is our right to speak out against our government if it does not protect or fulfill its obligations to its constituents. It is not only our right, but our duty to be an integral part of how our nation is governed. What the Occupy Wall Street movement started was a conversation that sparks a desire for a different version of our world, which is a prerequisite for change. Everyone