NEW YORK (AP) — A grassroots movement called an “economic blackout” started on Friday, encouraging people to avoid spending for 24 hours. Yet, it’s unclear how many joined in or if it impacted major retailers and restaurants. The group behind the protest claims it’s a response to the influence of billionaires, large corporations, and political parties on the lives of everyday workers.
The blackout kicked off at midnight EST and lasted until 11:59 PM EST. By midday, market research expert Marshal Cohen reported no notable dip in consumer spending. He mentioned that minor fluctuations can happen daily due to various reasons, such as weather.
In addition to the blackout, some groups are planning longer boycotts against companies that have reduced their diversity initiatives or against political leaders trying to eliminate DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs.
The People’s Union USA, founded by John Schwarz, a meditation teacher from Chicago, organized the event. Schwarz sought funding for the initiative via a crowdfunding campaign, which raised over $95,000. However, his past legal issues, including a conviction in 2007 related to voyeuristic material, have raised eyebrows. Schwartz claims he did not commit any wrongdoing and hopes to expunge his record.
The movement’s name echoes a 2020 protest encouraging conversations about racism in the music industry. This time, the People’s Union USA is planning another blackout on March 28 and is promoting boycotts against companies like Walmart and Amazon.
Participants of the blackout were encouraged to avoid purchases altogether—whether in stores or online—and even to skip fast food and gas stations. Some shared their commitment on social media, showcasing their efforts to save money while others turned to local small businesses for essentials.
Rachelle Biennestin, a first-grade teacher, joined in by not shopping that day. She prefers stores like Costco, which maintain their DEI commitments. She noted, “I won’t forget how these big companies rolled back on DEI. That will influence where I spend my money.”
While some criticized the blackout on social media, small businesses appeared to benefit, as consumers sought alternatives. Mischa Roy, owner of a tea shop in Massachusetts, reported brisk sales instead of the anticipated slowdown.
Several organized boycotts are emerging, like a 40-day boycott urging Christians to avoid Target starting on Ash Wednesday. This follows Target’s decision to halt its commitments to promoting diversity in hiring and supplier recruitment.
Experts are unsure how much impact the blackout will have. Some argue it may cause a temporary dip in sales, but not a long-lasting effect. Anna Tuchman, a marketing professor, believes this could empower consumers for a day, but sustained changes are unlikely.
Some boycotts in the past have had contrasting effects. For example, Goya Foods experienced a sales spike after a boycott due to its CEO’s Trump endorsement, but this increase didn’t last. In another example, Bud Light grappled with a significant drop in sales after a promotional misstep involving a transgender influencer.
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Diversity, equity and inclusion, Amazon.com, Inc., Retail and wholesale, Bud Light, Protests and demonstrations, Power outages, General news, Trending News, General Mills, Inc., U.S. news, John Schwarz, Donald Trump, Mischa Roy, Race and ethnicity, Rachelle Biennestin, United States government, Business, Costco Wholesale Corp., Anna Tuchman, Associated Press, Race and Ethnicity, U.S. News
