When tens of thousands demonstrate against the system in the United States, it occasions media hand-wringing over the demise of a movement, and commentary over how the demonstrators have failed to achieve anything.

Not so when the same rally takes place in Russia.

Upwards of 50,000 clog the streets of Moscow to demand reforms from/to Putin's strongman government, undeterred by threats of enormous fines for participation, and in spite of having speakers brought before an “investigative board.”

What is Occupy and what is not? Tens of thousands of protesters gather in the middle of Moscow to protest Putin's iron-fisted rule and for a more democratic society. For activists, attending demonstrations carries risks – more than being pepper-sprayed. The Kremlin denounces rising radicalism and says $9,000 fines for any one attending rallies that “cause harm to people or property.” A stiff fine given the average Russian yearly salary amounts to less. Several leading activists called before an Investigative Committee on an alleged criminal case, an attempt to deprive the event of its headline speakers. NY Times

You know your movement or protest is making headway when the world's financial blogs take notice and chastise you for “not taking responsibility” being “leaderless,” and acting out “lawlessness.” Such is the panic the Quebec street protests provoke in blogger Larry Elkin, who gets worked up over the 100,000 who took to the streets May 22^nd to celebrate their 100^th day of protests.

Shareholder activism is a growing tactic for the 99% percent who have been Occupying board rooms and annual meetings. The latest company hit is Chevron, where several resolutions are filed at the company's annual board meeting, including one which attempts to separate the CEO from the board. Other cite the company's “risky business practices,” several of which are outlined by triplepundit.com

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