Democracy Now

Uranan Kou Yang      

SOC 122

4/13/2016       

Democracy Now:

Over 400 Arrested at U.S. Capitol Protesting Corruption & Money in Politics

            This article reveals that about 400 people were arrested on Monday April 11, 2016 for doing a sit-in in the U.S. capitol, protesting against the corruption of large amounts of money on corporate lobbying in politics and unfair election system. The protest consisted of over 140 organizations protesting under the name of Democracy Spring, which marched from Philadelphia to Washington.  The campaign director of Democracy Spring Kai Newkirk, explains that he wants this protest to be the largest civil disobedience act in history. The people within this protest is fighting for the congress to end corruption of big money in politics ensuring free and fair elections giving the people an equal voice. They have introduced four bills that will introduce a public finance, overturn Citizens United, Voting Rights Advancement Act, and Voter Empowerment Act. A fifth one was also introduced to confirm a nominee to the Supreme Court who will vote to uphold political equality. The video highlights framing throughout the discussion between Amy Goodman and Kai Newkirk. For example his speech, "The American people won't take this anymore! We're going to end this corruption! This is just the beginning! This is just the beginning! Join us! Join us! Join us!" The speech was not only motivating, but very powerful because his speech was geared towards the well-being of the people through the tone of his voice and choice of words. Resource mobilization theory can also be seen within the video. For example, the mobilization of not only one, but over 300 organizations from all over the country are coming together to protest and fight for the unjust use of large amounts of money on corporations and politicians.