Occupy L.A. protesters are camped indefinitely (Gabriella Hecht/Neon Tommy)

Food booths, medical and supply stations, and a library are visible amidst the countless signs and personal tents outside of City Hall. Cardboard signs announce the day count of the peaceful protest, and the activists do not look like they are going anywhere anytime soon.

“I’ve been here since Day 1. I want economic and social justice and I’ll be here for as long as it takes,” said Jacob, a college-aged camper stationed in “The Village” behind City Hall.

His friend agreed, saying he is tired of corruption and he does not want his kids to grow up without opportunity. Neither Jacob nor his friend knew what tangible outcomes they hoped to gain from participating in Occupy L.A., simply that they were upset with the current status quo.

Many of the protesters are aware of the media’s criticism of the movement, claiming it to be disorganized and pointless. However, this does not dissuade them from their purpose.

“The media has been trying to murk the waters. First we were ignored and now they are trying to claim that we have no goal because we are a leaderless movement,” said Occupy L.A. media representative Gia Trimble. She said the goal is to remove money from media and politics and above all, attain financial equality.

“…It’s all about reaching a consensus, which takes time,” explained Mark Media, who is a regular assembly speaker at Occupy L.A. “We’re building a new society and believe that not having a leader is a strength.”

Despite such criticism, the movement has seen progress. The Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed a resolution Wednesday supporting the activists saying that the council will stand by them for as long as the peaceful protests continue.  

According to Occupy Together, the central website for people to find movements near them, there are 1,689 cities across the world that are standing in solidarity with the Occupy Wall Street movement. For these activists, it is not about where they are, but what they are doing. 

“I occupied a bar last night,” Gia said laughing. “It doesn’t matter where you are, as long as you occupy somewhere.”

Reach staff reporter Gabriella Hecht here.