There is a call on people across the United States to keep their money in their pockets and avoid buying anything on Friday at major retail stores, fast food outlets, and online.
The People’s Union USA is behind what is being called the “Economic Blackout.” The goal is to not spend any money at major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart as well as fast food places and gas stations, according to the group’s website. People are also urged to not use credit or debit cards for “non-essential spending.”
People are encouraged to only buy essentials that are absolutely necessary, such as food or medicine, and to only support small, local businesses.
John Schwarz, the group’s founder, said in a post on Instagram that the movement is about two things.
“It’s about giving us an opportunity to unite,” he said. “So many people say they wanna take part in something. Well, this is the easiest way you’ll ever have to do it. You don’t have to do anything. You don’t have to go anywhere and don’t spend any money. And the second thing we are showing is look, 340 million people in America. A lot of people are gonna go out and shop on February 28th. But if millions of us don’t, it still shows a great stand of resistance.”
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Tyler Schipper, an economist at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, told KNX News’ Jon Baird he’s not sure a 24-hour boycott will accomplish much.
“I love the idea of using the market to fight back, but ultimately I think this is so broad that it's one of those things where people might hold back today, but they're going to buy the stuff tomorrow,” he said.
The People’s Union USA is planning to take more action in the future that involves targeting specific corporations.
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