By leah jones
A consumer boycott, referred to as an "economic blackout," is taking place for 24 hours on Friday, Feb. 28.
This boycott is calling for Americans to avoid spending money, especially at big companies like Target, Walmart, Amazon and Whole Foods for the day.
Consumers and activists have been spreading word on social media in response to companies withdrawing DEI initiatives and Donald Trump's efforts to abolish DEI.
The purpose is to send a message that consumers are unsatisfied with policies and labor practices. Additionally, it is to reinforce that consumers hold the economic power.
John Schwarz and his organization, The People's Union USA, is credited with organizing the boycott. They claim no political party and says it is a "movement for all people."
The People’s Union USA describes itself as "a grassroots movement dedicated to economic resistance, government accountability, and corporate reform," per the official website.
Those that wish to participate in the boycott are encouraged to avoid spending on Feb. 28, including on things like gas, fast-food, online products, etc.
Those who need to make essential purchases are encouraged to shop from local and/or small businesses.
Even for just 24 hours, a well organized boycott can hurt businesses' sales and force them to take action. It can also rally more people to participate in later boycotts.
Consumer commitment and large scale participation is vital. Persistence and unity are what makes a boycott successful, like that of Nike in 1990 protesting its unethical practices.
Schwarz's organization and others are preparing for more boycotts in the coming months. This includes a 40-day boycott of Target beginning on Mar. 5 led by Black faith communities.
The People's Union is planning boycotts of companies like Amazon (Mar. 7-14), Nestle (Mar. 21-28) and Walmart (Apr. 7-14).
Latino communities and other groups are also calling for boycotts of businesses that have abandoned DEI practices to demonstrate community spending power.