Wall Street Protests

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Mayor supports protestors

Mayor Mike McGinn on Thursday said protesters could have an "organizing tent" that could remain overnight, but said protesters would have to allow the park to be cleaned and promise to protect park property while allowing others access to businesses.

McGinn also said the city would allow protesters to stay overnight at City Hall Plaza, with "reasonable restrictions" on tents so that people could use the plaza during the day. City Hall has restrooms, he noted, while Westlake doesn't.

Protesters would be allowed to use the plaza for two weeks, the mayor said.

Also notable is the presence of labor union members among the supporters of the protest.

The labor leaders threw their support behind the Occupy Seattle movement Thursday, boosting morale a day after 25 protesters were arrested. Top union members visited Westlake to let protesters know they share a similar view: The economy isn't fair and more jobs are needed.

"It's their movement, but it's our message," said Kathy Cummings, a spokeswoman for the Washington State Labor Council, which represents 750 local unions.

The labor group also has asked members to drop off bottled water and ready-to-eat packaged foods at the council's office, Cummings said.

I will be joining them today at midday.