Since last month, protesters have crowded into Manhattan and occupied Wall Street. The movement has quickly spread across the nation, with celebrities like Kanye West, Talib Kweli, David Banner, Bun B, and Russell Simmons participating. But what really is the movement about?

I went down to Freedom Plaza in Washington DC last week to ask organizers and protesters why they were all out there and the issues they were fighting for. I also spoke with DC Police Chief Cathy Lanier about how the movement has been going in the city. Watch below.

Organizers explain what the movement is about and its many goals

DC Police Chief Lanier discusses what it’s been like working with the DC Occupiers

Visit OccupyDC.org for more information on the movement and protest schedules.

*Edited by Mena