'Occupy Philly' Group Disputes Nutter's ''Changed'' Characterization
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Leaders of the "Occupy Philadelphia" protest today accused Mayor Nutter of trying to discredit and divide the group.
They spoke one day after Nutter ordered an increased police presence at the Dilworth Plaza encampment (see related story).
About a dozen leaders of the encampment addressed reporters today from a stage set up on Dilworth Plaza.
"We haven't changed -- the mayor has!" said Gwen Snyder (at lectern in top photo) on behalf of the protesters.
The mayor has ordered a stepped-up police presence because of what he said were growing safety and health concerns at the tent city.
Last Friday, the group voted not to leave the plaza despite a long-planned, $50-million renovation due to get underway this week (another related story).
Another speaker, Jody Dodd (far right), said the Nutter administration had so far not provided basic information about alternative sites.
"We received no response. The lack of information that the city could have easily provided contributed to the General Assembly's decision," she said today.
But one speaker, Michael Blas (in blue shirt at right), said even if the group as a whole does agree to move, some will stay:
"Of course I'm staying. And a lot of other people will stay as well."
Reported by Mike Dunn, KYW Newsradio 1060
