A nationwide economic “blackout” is set to occur this week, spearheaded by The People’s Union USA, an anti-corporate advocacy group. The campaign, which aims to urge consumers to abstain from all spending except for essentials, has garnered attention through a message from its founder, John Schwarz, to his 500,000 Instagram followers. The direct appeal is simple: “No spending. No shopping. Nowhere.” The group has yet to respond to media inquiries regarding the initiative, but it represents a continuation of the organization’s mission to challenge corporate practices that they deem unethical or detrimental to the working class.
The economic blackout is not an isolated event; it falls within a broader context of multiple boycotts aimed at significant corporations. This year alone, various companies have faced backlash for rescinding commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These boycotts reflect a growing anti-corporate sentiment among consumers dissatisfied with corporate accountability. While many experts believe that grassroots movements like these have limited capacity to create substantial corporate change, some organizations have noted that public sentiment can impact a company’s reputation and financial performance.
The People’s Union USA is characterized as a grassroots advocacy entity, unaligned with any political party. Its objectives stem from a commitment to economic resistance, corporate accountability, and social justice for working-class individuals. The ongoing “Economic Blackout Tour” focuses on addressing price gouging, worker exploitation, tax evasion, and other unethical practices by corporations. This summer, the group has planned an extended boycott against several prominent brands, highlighting their strategy of leveraging public sentiment to challenge major players in the retail landscape.
In previous “economic blackouts,” The People’s Union has encouraged consumers to refrain from a wide range of activities—streaming services, online orders, fast food, and more—while advocating for purchases exclusively at local small businesses when necessary. However, Schwarz has indicated that the latest blackout aims to channel a broader discontent among the populace, urging participants to engage in various forms of protest beyond mere economic abstinence. He emphasized the importance of collective action, suggesting community gatherings, protests at local governance sites, and even a pause in business activities.
John Schwarz has articulated that The People’s Union represents a faction of the American populace that is growing weary of corporate greed and inequity. He has promoted the August 9 event as a critical moment for collective action, stating that it is time for Americans to stop waiting and hoping for change. The organization communicates that the power to effect change lies in consumer spending habits, asserting that withdrawing financial support from corporations can disrupt their influence and operations. This approach stresses the significance of economic resistance as a non-violent yet impactful method for advocating change.
Looking ahead, the planned economic blackout will last for 24 hours and serves as a precursor to further boycotts scheduled for September, targeting major players like Amazon, Uber, and Pepsi. Observers, including political economist Michelle Meagher, highlight the necessity of regulatory measures to complement consumer boycotts, suggesting that while economic resistance is a powerful tool, it is most effective when supported by governmental accountability and legal frameworks. This upcoming blackout and subsequent actions indicate a strategic evolution in The People’s Union USA’s approach to economic resistance and corporate accountability.
