Summarize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs A nonpartisan group is planning additional boycotts against major U.S. companies until at least July as part of its ongoing “Economic Blackout Tour.”The People’s Union USA, a grassroots anti-discrimination organization, says its motives lie in protecting the American working class from “the greed and corruption that’s kept us divided, distracted, and struggling for decades.”Newsweek reached out to The People’s Union USA for comment.Why It MattersOn April 7, a seven-day boycott of Walmart began to protest what the group sees as the corporate giant’s tax avoidance, inequality and rising prices.Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, said in November that it was rolling back DEI policies, including no longer considering race and gender when making decisions about suppliers, ending various diversity programs, and removing the words “diversity” and “DEI” from documents in favor of language about “belonging.”
People join in a “Hands Off!” protest against the Trump administration on April 5, 2025, in Riverside, California.
People join in a “Hands Off!” protest against the Trump administration on April 5, 2025, in Riverside, California.
David McNew/Getty Images
What To KnowThe initial boycott, which concludes on April 14, includes all of Walmart’s online and retail stores and services, and pharmacy and grocery pickup and delivery services. Club stores like Sam’s Club are also being boycotted. All private-label brands affiliated with Walmart, like Great Value and Parent’s Choice, are also part of the blackout.The People’s Union USA says it’s nonpartisan and that its movement is “just getting started” and “not stopping anytime soon.”The “economic blackout tour” has dates listed until July 4, with some of the most well-known companies on Earth among those impacted:Walmart – April 7-14Economic Blackout 2 – April 18General Mills – April 21-28Amazon Boycott 2 – May 6-12Walmart Boycott 2 – May 20 to 26Target Boycott – June 3 to 9McDonald’s Boycott – June 24 to 30Independence Day Boycott – July 4″It’s simple: stop spending,” The People’s Action USA says on its website. “On blackout days, avoid shopping, streaming, online orders, fast food, and everything in between. If you absolutely need something, buy it from a small, local business.”This is about discipline and awareness. The less we give them, the more power we take back.”In the same vein as Walmart, companies like Target and McDonald’s have also reversed their DEI policies. A 40-day boycott of Target began the first week of March and remains ongoing. Reverend Jamal Bryant, a Georgia pastor, spurred the boycott.Prior to President Donald Trump’s inauguration, citing a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action, McDonald’s—the world’s largest fast-food chain—announced that it would eliminate specific diversity benchmarks for senior leadership and halt a supplier-focused initiative meant to increase minority representation and training. Trump’s MAGA supporters praised the move.What People Are Saying:Walmart told Newsweek: “As one of the largest corporate taxpayers in the country, not only do we pay our fair share, we are an economic force multiplier strengthening communities nationwide through job creation, supplier growth, and over $1.7 billion in cash and in-kind donations last year…We remain dedicated to earning the business of all Americans and giving our time and resources to causes that uplift and unite communities who rely on us every day.”The People’s Union USA founder John Schwarz previously told Newsweek: “Our mission is simple: we want these corporations to start paying their fair share of taxes so the American people can finally be relieved of the burden of federal income tax.”What Happens NextThe People’s Action USA claims its national influence is expanding to additional cities and states, involving increased media efforts and larger community forums and alliances. It says it’s not a trend but “the beginning of a national transformation.”
