Mayor Quan’s Statement:
Oakland has shown its support for the 99%. Now it is time for this encampment to show its support and respect for the people of Oakland.
We renew our call on Occupy Oakland to make a decision to leave immediately.
Occupation is a tactic, not a solution. Frank Ogawa Plaza cannot sustain permanent living quarters and our economy cannot sustain this occupation.
While I am pleased to see a consensus developing on the Council to remove the camp, I call on elected leaders who are clamoring for an immediate raid to put forward a plan that does not cause additional injury to people, property and our reputation, or result in another re-occupation. I urge them to join me, the City Administrator, Police Chief and community leaders in implementing a plan to remove the encampment. We know that a tiny minority thinks it is a sound strategy to pit our Police against demonstrators. We call on everyone to reject provocation of violence.
We will talk with the demonstrators, the community, and the police to build a common understanding around a peaceful resolution.
This has been a test of leadership and a test of conscience. Oakland is a city of hope and opportunity. We are the 99%.