WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — Customers and small business owners are boycotting major retailers as part of “Economic Blackout.”
The movement calls for boycotts against corporations across the country for rolling back Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Multiple groups including The People’s Union USA—which said it is not tied to a particular political party—are spreading the word to boycott retailers like Target, Amazon, and Best Buy for rolling back DEI.
“I’ve been boycotting Target and boycotting other companies that have said they do not stand for the same values that I stand for,” said D.C. Pop Up Shop Owner Rahama Wright.
Black-owned small business owner Rahama Wright closed the doors of her D.C. Pop Up in solidarity with the movement.
”Even though we are a small business and we’re not part of the movement in terms of being boycotted, I think it’s really important for us to understand and share why this boycott is happening,” said Wright. “It’s happening because our values are under attack.”
Shoppers were disappointed with the fact that major retailers have decided to roll back their DEI programs.
“It’s a shame that they are, you know, private sector companies are supposed to be able to do what they want and not be imposed by the government, and it’s just really a shame that they’re being so easily—just rolling over,” said boycotter Kelly Healy.
Supporters decided to wield the power of the purse to push back.
“Enough people have to take like participation for it to make a dent, because you’re kind of trying to hit them where it hurts their wallet,” said supporter Larson Bukowski.
Meanwhile, other customers continued to shop despite the movement.
“It’s important that people express their opinions, but it’s not something I feel particularly strongly about one way or the other,” said shopper Prescott Farris.
Organizers are planning another boycott targeting Amazon on March 7.
DC News Now reached out to the People’s Union and has not yet heard back.
