The “Feb 28 Economic Blackout,” a protest against rising prices and corporate policies in the United States, Organized by The People’s Union USA–an organization dedicated to economic resistance, government accountability and corporate reform–calls for consumers not to make any purchases on Feb. 28, either online or in large physical stores. The goal is to target big corporations and raise awareness about inflation, high living costs and economic inequality.
According to some posts created for the event by online supporters, the favorite targets are mega-chains such as Walmart, Amazon, Target, Ford and McDonald’s, especially after the abolition of DEI (diversity, equity & inclusion) programs following Trump’s decree. The People’s Union USA says it has no political affiliation, but focuses on “equity, economic justice and real systemic change.”
In particular, the protest comes at a time when price increases have drastically affected various sectors and products such as food, gas, housing and utilities. The soaring cost of eggs in particular has been seized upon as emblematic of the overall trend, averaging $4.95 per dozen in January. “All our lives, we’ve been told that we have no choice … that we have to accept these crazy prices, corporate greed, billion-dollar tax breaks, all while just struggling to survive,” said John Schwarz, founder of the grassroots movement “The People’s Union USA” in a video posted on his Instagram account. “On Feb. 28, the 24-hour economic blackout: no Amazon, no Walmart, no fast food, no gas, not a single useless dollar spent … for one day, we will finally turn the tables,” Schwarz said. As of this writing, the video is approaching 5,000 likes.
