Black Friday, Cyber Monday: Are Americans Spending or Boycotting

A movement led by The People’s Union USA (along with some allied civic groups) launched a nationwide consumer protest day on February 28, 2025 calling it an “economic blackout.” On that day, they asked Americans to avoid any non-essential spending — in stores or online — as a statement against corporate practices, rising inequality, inflation, and corporate rollbacks of diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) programs.

The boycott has expanded into more targeted “economic-blackout” campaigns which are underway in parts of the U.S. — but whether the boycott is “really taking place” depends on how you measure it.

Americans have been asked to avoid any non-essential spending — in stores or online — as a statement against corporate practices, rising inequality, inflation, and corporate rollbacks of diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) programs.

Among the major retailers and companies that have been included: Walmart — its U.S. stores, online operations, Sam’s Club, and related services have been a central target. Target —Amazon (and its affiliates: e-commerce platform, Whole Foods, other services) — included among companies boycotted for their size, market dominance, and alleged impact on small businesses. Join The Peoples Union Plesser-mentioned companies in boycott lists: e.g. parts of Home Depot and certain major manufacturers/brands connected to those firms. Some boycott efforts also encourage redirecting spending away from big chains / national brands and toward small or local businesses. Has this worked this far?