Is the recent uprising after 'The Arab Spring' about more than just class warfare?

Since 2001, we've seen more and more tax cuts passed that've greatly contributed to an unprecedented wealth disparity. The "Occupy" movement started in New York City and now has made a global impact. Naturally, independent observers and critics have questioned the organized efforts, claiming there isn't a goal or coherent message. The message is very clear: End the corporate crime and corrupt influence that has directly impacted so many lives. As former progressive Congressman Alan Grayson has repeated, There hasn't been one arrest made or trial conducted over those who continue to rig the financial game.

Yesterday, the United States along with the United Kingdom, were the only two nations who voted against accepting Palestine as a member of UNESCO, a humanitarian arm of the United Nations. State Department Spokeswoman Victoria Nuland dodged a direct question posed by a reporter. She was asked what "serious harm" has Palestine done that has outweighed its good to the global community. Nuland continued to persistently say the United States supports Palestine, but she never directly answered what "serious harm" the state has done. This vote should come as no surprise.

Each year, the U.S. and Israel have a strong business relationship worth billions for the U.S. in arms supplies for Israeli defense. Since Israel's independence and despite our mainstream press reporting, it has perpetrated numerous hostile aggressive actions in Palestine. The Gaza Strip is one of the most densely populated areas on the planet. So, who shoulders the blame?

The Oligarchy and Oligopoly System

Political dissident Noam Chomsky said democracy always comes at the expense of others. So, one can argue Israel's democracy comes at the expense of the Palestinian people. And our democracy also comes at the expense of the Palestinians. Are we truly looking after this region's best interests or our own? It appears the defense contractors and our Pentagon have the gold and make the golden rule.

The "Occupy" movement has inspired many to come out and have their voices heard -- voices silent for too long by those with deep, deep pockets. Oligopolies like the financial industry are being targeted for criminal behavior -- setting up a manipulative system that will vastly enrich their own pockets at the expense of others; others who have had their homes foreclosed on by shady mortgage practices, going bankrupt from health care bills, long-term unemployed who view themselves as useless to society, and unions who ask for a fair shake at the bargaining table where they can still retire with dignity and security.

Canesha and I have been to a General Assemby and marched to Capitol Hill with Occupy Atlanta. Both events were peaceful. We heard stories from individuals who have personally experienced the aforementioned effects from our olygarchy structure. The message is clear: We want democracy for all and not to the corporations, for the corporations, and by the corporations.

Many of us have been through hellish times, but we shouldn't discount all those times we've had with those who truly love and support us. Canesha and I have had unique journeys. Famed author Paulo Coelho wrote: "We can never judge the lives of others, because each person knows their own pain and renunciation. It's one thing to think you're on the right path, but it's another to think yours is the only path." We seemingly have too few in high places who feel their path is the only one. If you can't get on that path, then you will be stripped bare.