On February 28, 2025, a grassroots movement known as The People’s Union USA is organizing a nationwide “economic blackout” in the United States. This 24-hour boycott aims to challenge major corporations by urging consumers to refrain from making any non-essential purchases, both online and in-store, from midnight on February 27 to midnight on February 28.
What is the Economic Blackout?
The economic blackout is a protest against what many see as corporate greed and the erosion of social and economic justice. It targets large retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, as well as fast food chains and gas stations. Participants are encouraged to avoid using credit or debit cards for non-essential spending and instead support local businesses if they must make purchases.
Why is it Happening?
The initiative is a response to several issues, including the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts by major corporations. It also seeks to address concerns about corporate corruption, equitable wages, and labor practices. The People’s Union USA argues that by disrupting the economy for just one day, consumers can send a powerful message to corporations about who truly holds economic power.
How Does it Work?
– Duration: The blackout lasts for 24 hours, starting at midnight on February 27 and ending at midnight on February 28.
– What Not to Do: Avoid all non-essential purchases at major retailers, fast food chains, and gas stations. Refrain from using credit or debit cards for non-essential spending.
– What You Can Do: Buy only essential items like food, medicine, and emergency supplies. If possible, support small, local businesses instead.
– Spreading the Message: Participants are encouraged to share their experiences and spread awareness about the blackout through social media and community networks.
Impact and Future Plans
While some experts doubt that a single day of boycotting will have a significant impact on major corporations, organizers believe it could be the start of a larger movement. The People’s Union USA plans additional blackouts, including a week-long boycott of Amazon from March 7-14 and another event targeting Nestlé in late March.
Conclusion
The February 28th economic blackout represents a grassroots effort to challenge corporate power and advocate for systemic change. Whether it achieves its immediate goals or not, it highlights the growing dissatisfaction among consumers with corporate practices and the desire for greater accountability and fairness in the economy. As the movement continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it shapes public discourse and corporate behavior in the future.
Read More
[1] https://www.npr.org/2025/02/27/nx-s1-5311972/economic-blackout-february-28-explainer
[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/economic-blackout-feb-24-hour-february-28-2025-peoples-union/
[3] https://www.axios.com/2025/02/28/economic-blackout-feb-28-no-shopping-day-boycott
[4] https://www.today.com/news/economic-blackout-february-28-rcna193872
[5] https://www.businessinsider.com/economic-blackout-boycott-protest-feb-28-2025-2
[6] https://apnews.com/article/feb-28-economic-blackout-2025-d6b0bf2d1c989ee3071016e36598d76c
[7] https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/28/business/economic-blackout-february-28/index.html
[8] https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/02/28/feb-28-economic-blackout-protest-2025-what-to-know/80727498007/