Participants of the Occupy Buffalo movement in downtown Buffalo's Niagara Square say they're preparing their tents for the coming colder and snowy weather. As snowflakes fell over downtown Buffalo Wednesday afternoon, they were even making light of the situation, singing "Let it Snow."
An Occupy Buffalo spokesman told WBFO on site that winterization efforts were made to better protect protestors from the elements. The tent city currently includes two professional grade tents, one of which was donated. One is used as a food preparation and distribution tent, the other as a meeting center.
Protestors say they're determined to stick it out, in some part in response to critics who have accused them of being fair-weather protestors who would fold up and leave the grounds in the event of adverse weather conditions.
They also face a potential challenge from the city, whose mayor, Byron Brown, has described relations with the Occupy Buffalo movement as positive and professional to this point. The issue: in the event of a heavy snowfall, the city would use Niagara Square as a dumping ground for snow cleared off the streets. Occupy Buffalo members suggest they are determined not to relocate, with one participant adding that they might find both practical and fun uses for the snow.
Support for the movement shows no signs of waning, with two cars pulling up during WBFO's visit, both delivering offers of food and supplies.
In the audio link, WBFO further explores the Occupy Buffalo movement and learn why the local effort is enjoying a more friendly relationship with its city, as opposed to the troubled camps in New York City and Los Angeles.
