Occupy Kona general assembly, Nov. 26 at Hale Halawai. (Photo courtesy of John Wicart)

Special to Hawaii 24/7 by Duke Kell

On Saturday, Nov. 26, 104 motivated citizens filled the picnic tables that lined the open hall of the Hale Halawai in Kailua-Kona. They were attending the first public general assembly for Occupy Kona, an open forum to voice concerns about the future of the community and the country.

People of all ages were present and anyone who desired was allotted four minutes to speak.

On the stage under the open beam ceiling, moderator Herman Lange gave a brief introduction to the occupy movement. He introduced Sandra Scarr, who showed a power point presentation outlining the problems that the country face’s and how to address them. What followed was a rational deliberation of individual thought and showmanship.

Steven Sakala gave a fervent speech for direct action protests of banks trying to foreclose on homeowners.

Randyl Rupar of Mauna Kea sanctuary addressed protesting with money, insisting that if you buy local and support the farmers markets, you’re taking part in a form of protest.

The words danced in the salty air wafting though the open walls as each speaker delivered an impassioned view of what they might write into an amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Yes, an amendment to the Constitution. The Occupy Movement, at only 10 weeks old, has narrowed down the long list of grievances to one simple goal: Push for a Constitutional Convention.

Under Article 5 of the Constitution, two-thirds of the states can call for a convention.

Why? Organizers believe the political process has been hijacked by the 1% and have no reason to think there will ever be consensuses by the legislative branch strong enough to get the money out of politics.

Why would they? In today’s political climate politicians, lobbyists and the various forms of mass media are all benefactors of the status quo.

These meetings are more than just signs and catchphrases, they are a resurgence of engagement in the system, a spark that is quickly spreading and lighting a fire under the sleeping giant. As the 99% start to awaken from their slumber, the powers that be have begun to falter.

Over the past few weeks, pepper spraying photos and video have shed light on a gross overstep against civil liberties and the first amendment rights.

Albert Einstein once said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”

Yes, the changes that need to happen are going to be difficult and yes, there will need to be sacrifices made, but what is the alternative?

History dictates that the country change or like all great civilizations before fade into obscurity. The choice is up to the people.

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Continuing weekly support rallies:

* Kamuela/Waimea – 3-6 p.m. every Monday in front of Foodland on Highway 19
* West Hawaii – 3-6 p.m. every Monday on Highway 11 south of Henry Street (Mormon Temple)
* Hilo – 4-5:30 p.m. every Monday at 1437 Kilauea Ave. fronting Merrill Lynch; and 3:30-5 p.m. every Friday at the downtown Post Office
* Honokaa – 10 a.m.-noon every Saturday in front of Honokaa People’s Theatre. Live music, free lilikoi juice and coffee.