Summary:
People’s Union USA initiates an economic blackout against big corporations.
The movement aims to empower consumers against corporate influence.
Support for fair wages and labor practices is a key focus.
Small local businesses are encouraged as alternatives during the blackout.
The impact of the blackout on corporations will be assessed in the coming days.
The People’s Union USA, a grassroots movement, has initiated an economic blackout encouraging shoppers to abstain from spending on major retailers like Walmart and Target.
The Purpose Behind the Blackout
The goal of this movement is to empower consumers, reminding them that they hold power against the influence of large corporations. According to Patrice Luoma, a professor at Quinnipiac University, this blackout aims to highlight consumer power in the face of corporate decisions that impact diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Standing Against Corporate Decisions
Supporters are particularly concerned about recent rollbacks of diversity initiatives by corporations, especially post Black History Month. Mercy Quaye, Founder and CEO of The Narrative Project, emphasized the widespread discontent among consumers regarding these changes.
Advocating for Fair Practices
The movement also champions fair wages and labor practices. Participants are encouraged to refrain from purchasing from fast food chains, gas stations, and major retailers for 24 hours, instead opting to support small local businesses. For instance, Witch B. Thrift in New Haven is offering a 13% discount on cash purchases to promote local shopping.
Community Reactions
Local business owners like Virginia Semeghini from Witch B. Thrift expressed their support, highlighting that while major corporations can survive a day without sales, many small businesses cannot. Customers like Brian Hernandez acknowledged the blackout, but shared their need to shop for essentials, while Sephene Bryant voiced her support, citing the high cost of living and inadequate pay scales.
The Impact on Corporations
As the day concludes, the critical question remains: what impact will this blackout have on big corporations? Luoma suggests that the true effects will only be known in the following days.
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