An online movement is gaining momentum, encouraging U.S. consumers to participate in a day of protest by refraining from spending money on February 28. Started by John Schwarz, the idea has spread on social media, with celebrities like Stephen King, John Leguizamo, and Bette Midler promoting the economic blackout. Schwarz aims to unionize working-class people through his website, The People’s Union, by resisting corporate greed and economic exploitation.
The movement calls for a 24-hour economic blackout, urging people to avoid nonessential purchases and support small, local businesses. Schwarz has gained a significant following on social media and plans additional weeklong boycotts of specific companies throughout the year. Several political organizations have voiced support for the protest, specifically opposing the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives by major companies.
While the planned blackout has echoes of the Occupy Wall Street movement, it differs in its call for inaction rather than street protests. The movement aims to draw attention to wealth and income inequality and demand fair treatment for working-class Americans. However, translating online traction into real impact may prove challenging due to the dependence of many Americans on large chain corporations for daily purchases. Despite this, the movement has struck a chord with those who prioritize supporting local businesses and upholding DEI efforts.
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