Why Are Consumers Planning a 'Economic Blackout' on February 28?

An overview of shoppers at the Roosevelt Field Mall for Black Friday bargains on Nov. 25, 2022, in Garden City, New York.Howard Schnapp/Newsday RM via Getty Image

Consumers in the United States are encouraged to refrain from purchasing non-essential goods on February 28 as part of a 24-hour shopping ban designed to highlight the economic power of ordinary people.

The People's Union USA is pushing for the day of action, which advocates for "economic resistance, government accountability, and corporate reform." The group is a neutral body and a "movement for all."

"February 28 is a symbolic start to economic resistance, a day where we show corporations and politicians that we control the economy," said a note on the organization's website.

The initiative comes as customers get weary of escalating pricing for products and services.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), food prices increased by about 10% year on year in 2022, the fastest rate since 1979. While inflation has now eased, families continue to be affected by supply chain concerns, other inflationary pressures, and the looming possibility of tariffs against nations such as China, Mexico, and Canada, which could raise consumer costs. In fact, a consumer mood poll conducted by the University of Michigan predicts that inflation will reach 4.3%.

Here's what you should know about the upcoming economic blackout.

What stores are people boycotting?

Those who want to participate in the economic blackout are especially asked not to spend money on fast food, gas, or purchases at large merchants. The group states that exceptions might be made for the purchase of necessities such as food, medicine, or emergency supplies.

The economic blackout appears to be aimed primarily at large firms, mentioning Walmart, Amazon, and Best Buy. However, people are encouraged to cease buying altogether.

Participants are also invited to take the day off work if it is "safely" possible, according to an Instagram post by John Schwarz, founder of The People's Union USA.

What does this have to do with DEI?

While the People's Union USA strongly supports diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and considers rollbacks to such measures "regressive and unacceptable," Friday's economic blackout has nothing to do with DEI.

Other boycotts are targeting specific firms, such as Target, which said in January that it will reduce its DEI targets. The firm is one of several major shops that decided to do so after President Donald Trump issued an Executive Order aimed at ending all federal DEI.