On February 28, 2025, a nationwide economic boycott is set to take place as consumers abstain from non-essential spending for 24 hours. Spearheaded by The People’s Union USA, this grassroots movement aims to protest rising economic inequality, corporate greed, and the lack of accountability among major retailers and financial institutions.

What is the Economic Boycott?

The economic boycott is a one-day event where participants are encouraged to:

• Avoid major retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
• Refrain from dining at fast food chains and purchasing gas.
• If spending is necessary, prioritize small and locally owned businesses.
• Use cash instead of credit or debit cards to minimize financial tracking by corporations.

Why is This Boycott Happening?

The movement is a response to growing financial hardship, particularly among marginalized communities. Corporations continue to raise prices while wages remain stagnant, leaving many struggling to make ends meet. This boycott aims to demonstrate consumer power and demand greater corporate responsibility.

How Does This Impact LGBTQ+ Communities?

LGBTQ+ individuals, especially those who are Black, Indigenous, or people of color, face higher rates of economic insecurity. Studies show that LGBTQ+ individuals experience wage gaps, employment discrimination, and barriers to accessing capital for entrepreneurship.

According to the Human Rights Campaign, LGBTQ+ people are more likely to live in poverty than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts, with transgender individuals experiencing even higher rates of financial hardship. This boycott serves as a reminder of the economic injustices these communities face and highlights the need for systemic change.

How to Make an Impact

Beyond just avoiding major corporations, participants can take additional steps to support economic justice:

• Support LGBTQ+-owned businesses: Shop at queer-owned businesses, support LGBTQ+ artists, and invest in community-led financial institutions.
• Raise awareness: Use social media to share why the boycott matters and encourage others to participate.
• Advocate for policy change: Push for fair wages, anti-discrimination protections, and increased support for small businesses and minority entrepreneurs.

Moving Beyond February 28

While the economic boycott is a single-day event, it is part of a larger movement toward financial justice. The goal is to encourage long-term strategies such as:

• Divesting from exploitative corporations.
• Investing in community wealth-building initiatives.
• Continuing to support businesses aligned with economic justice values.

The February 28 economic boycott is more than just a temporary protest—it is a statement about consumer power and the need for systemic reform. By taking collective action, individuals can push for a more equitable economy where financial security is a right for all, not just a privilege for a few.