As the Occupy Wall Street protests continue into a fourth week, Occupy Buffalo is growing in strength. Members camped out overnight in Niagara Square downtown.
Local protestors waved signs with various messages including "End the Fed" and "Stop the war on workers".
"Against corporate lobbying, and we are buying off politicians and making their own laws and we are trying to defend the American public against corporations," said one identified protestor.
During the noon hour Tuesday a hand full of protestors were still going strong. Michael Mottern of Buffalo is helping to lead the local effort.
"The reason why I'm here, is because my great uncle, who was at the 1932 Bonus Army rally in Washington, D.C. He did his part during the Great Depression now I have to do my part during the great recession," said Mottern.
Mottern tells WBFO News Buffalo's message is the same as Occupy Wall Street targeting what they call the greed of major corporations and banks.
"The financial institutions, the banking system here and the real estate market. That they have to pay their fair share in taxes, number one, and number two, you are not going to balance the budget off the backs of our disabled and our seniors," said Mottern.
Protestors plan to continue to rally in Niagara Square, but Occupy Buffalo is trying to secure a new permit from the City. The current permit expired. Buffalo Police spokesman Mike DeGeorge said he believes the group will re-apply for a permit to continue their protest. The City will then review their request when its received.