The ‘economic blackout’ boycott, explained
A social media campaign has sparked plans for an “economic blackout” on Friday, one of several boycotts planned by activists intent on sending a message to large corporations at a time when many Americans are struggling to keep up with costs.
The initiative calls on consumers to suspend all spending, both online and in-person, for one day. Its organizer, The People’s Union USA, bills itself as a nonpartisan, grass-roots movement dedicated to economic resistance.
The People’s Union USA website lists boycotts throughout the spring, including:
March 7-14: Amazon, including Whole Foods and Prime purchases (Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post.)
March 21-28: Nestlé, whose brands include Nescafé, Toll House, Stouffer’s and Purina
March 28: A 24-hour economic blackout of all large retailers
April 7 to April 13: Walmart
April 18: A 24-hour economic blackout of all large retailers.
April 21-27: General Mills, whose brands include Betty Crocker, Cheerios, Gold Medal, Green Giant, Pillsbury and Yoplait
Caption from article by Ben Brasch and Jaclyn Peiser.