Friday, October 7, 2011

10/7/2011 Occupy Portland - In Memory of EJ

Posted by Tony Bessey at 10:39 PM

It seems like we have seen protests for the better part of a decade. We have seen people protest war, public policy, politicians, corporations and much much more. My good friend and fellow photographer EJ loved to photograph these events. Were he alive today, I know he would be standing in front of the Portland Public Library snapping pictures and taunting the participants of Occupy Portland in an attempt to get just the right photograph of the event. The big difference between EJ and me is my preference for night photography.


This evening I quietly drove into downtown Portland and set-up my camera and Tripod behind a small tree in front of the Maine Bank and Trust Building. The time was about 9 PM and the crowd was obviously winding down for the evening. There was lively discussion and plenty of support from passers by honking. One sign I saw encouraged all to "End Corporate Personhood." Another declared that "Occupation is not a protest, its a vortex!" Very enlightening. I am sure the daytime activity is much more interesting, but that light does nothing for me.



My last stop was the Occupy Portland slum at Lincoln Park on Congress Street. Signs like these litter the fence around the park. Across the street at Portland's Central Fire Station two Portland Police Sergeant's Explorers were standing by. I am sure they are not there all the time, but I have a feeling they are there more than normal.


Once I had the chance to photograph the gate, I took some time to step into the park and capture this image of the slum. I have no idea what the living conditions are in these tents, but they are covered with tarps which means the owners know little to nothing about caring for tents and they are probably pretty wet inside. I am also left to wonder if there is a permit process or fee requirement to use a public park for camping in Portland? In the end, I don't think it matter's much. With the recent extreme fluctuations in temperature and heavy rains these tents are going to be health hazards of the worst kind. I don't wish the kind of ignorance on anyone.

Here's to you EJ. I did it my way, but I shared my view of Occupy Portland from my Ordinary Maine.

Tony

 

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