It's 'Economic Blackout' Day: Americans Urged to Abstain from Spending for 24 Hours

As the sun sets on Feb. 28, Americans are being encouraged to participate in a unique form of protest: a 24-hour economic blackout. The People's Union USA, a grassroots organization, is urging consumers to abstain from spending any money for one day, with the exception of essential purchases. The goal? To send a powerful message to corporations and the government about the economic power of everyday people.

The economic blackout, which began at midnight, is a symbolic act of resistance against what the group sees as the malign influence of billionaires, big corporations, and both major political parties on the lives of working Americans. The People's Union, founded by meditation teacher John Schwarz, is not affiliated with any political party and stands for fairness, economic justice, and real systemic change.



Participants are advised to avoid making any purchases, whether in-store or online, from big retailers or chains. This includes fast food, gas, and even credit or debit card transactions. Instead, they are encouraged to support local, small businesses if they must spend money on essential items.

While the impact of a one-day economic blackout on major retailers and the broader economy is uncertain, some experts believe it could have a minor effect. Marshal Cohen, chief retail advisor at market research firm Circana, suggests that any meaningful sales declines might be more noticeable in liberal-leaning coastal regions and big cities. However, he also acknowledges that the overall impact may be limited, with consumers simply delaying their purchases rather than canceling them entirely.



The economic blackout is just one of several planned protests and boycotts aimed at challenging corporate and political entities. Other ongoing boycotts, such as those targeting Target and Amazon, are focused on specific companies' rollbacks of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The People's Union has also planned additional blackouts and weeklong boycotts against specific retailers, such as Walmart and Amazon, as well as global food giants Nestlé and General Mills.

While the effectiveness of a one-day economic blackout in influencing corporate policies and government actions remains to be seen, the movement highlights the growing frustration among consumers with rising prices, corporate greed, and the perceived lack of accountability among elected officials. As the economic blackout comes to an end, it will be interesting to see if the message resonates with corporations and the government, and if similar protests gain traction in the future.

In conclusion, the 'economic blackout' day is a unique and symbolic form of protest that encourages Americans to use their economic power to challenge corporate and political entities. While the impact of a one-day blackout on major retailers and the broader economy is uncertain, the movement highlights the growing frustration among consumers with rising prices and corporate greed. As the economic blackout comes to an end, it will be interesting to see if the message resonates with corporations and the government, and if similar protests gain traction in the future.