A demonstration on Friday outside the New York Stock Exchange led to the arrest of at least five individuals, which included a parliamentary candidate from Queens.
Democrat Chuck Park was taken into custody while obstructing the entrance to Wall Street, according to his team.
In a statement on X, they indicated, “Chuck was exercising his right to peacefully protest in support of workers, and those values have always been at the core of his campaign.”
His team further emphasized that the current economic system has favored billionaires and corporations over workers and union members vital to New York City’s functionality. They stated, “It’s time to tax the wealthy and ensure billionaires finally pay their fair share.”
Reports confirmed that at least four other individuals were also apprehended by the NYPD, with multiple people being taken into custody.
It’s still unclear why the protesters faced arrests or if they will be charged with anything.
Around 150 demonstrators gathered at the Stock Exchange as part of a larger call for a nationwide economic blackout, blocking the entrance to Wall Street.
In Washington Square Park, another rally took place, with Mayor Mamdani voicing support for the protesters. He reflected on the hard-won rights that workers enjoy today, such as 40-hour work weeks and workplace safety standards, and stressed the need to protect and advance these rights.
Meanwhile, similar demonstrations were occurring in California, where organizers urged supporters to refrain from work, school, and shopping as a sign of solidarity against corporations.
Park, who resides in Flushing, joined forces with the Sunrise Movement New York City, an organization of young activists advocating for a Green New Deal.
He is running against long-time Assemblywoman Grace Meng, focusing on the rights of working-class and immigrant communities. Park’s campaign website asserts, “I’m not just running against an indifferent incumbent. I’m running against the corporate class that controls her.”
