US Uncut Action at Bank of America in Berkeley

US Uncut is a new movement that started in England as UK Uncut, targeting tax dodging corporations who are harming our economy and society by not paying their fair share of taxes on huge profits. Federal, state and local budgets are all suffering, yet these giant corporations with their giant profits get away with paying little or no taxes, and with sheltering profits offshore instead of paying into the communities where they make their money. B of A was the first US target; over 50 actions took place beginning on Feb. 26 ( see www.usuncut.org). The Berkeley action at the B of A on Telegraph and Durant drew about 30 protesters who held signs calling for B of A to pay taxes, gave speeches, spoke with passersby to tell them that B of A earned over $4.4 billion in 2009 and paid ZERO taxes on that profit. A group of about 10 went inside the bank to cash faux checks for $1.5 billion, the amount B of A owes in 2009 taxes. The customers, tellers and managers were informed that B of A is dodging its tax obligations. The managers called the Berkeley Police, who were conveniently stationed just down the street. The police cleared the building, then the managers locked the doors, so we essentially closed the branch! A line of protesters stood in front of the doors, and customers were asked to bank elsewhere. Occasionally a customer was let inside, but we felt victorious in getting our message out that B of A needs to pay. Great action! Join US Uncut, US Uncut California, US Uncut Oakland, and/or US Uncut San Francisco: www.usuncut.org