A second boycott against Walmart is set to take place from May 20 to May 26, 2024, organized by The People’s Union USA, a grassroots advocacy group led by John Schwarz. This follows the first Walmart blackout that occurred in early April.
Schwarz emphasizes that the group’s objective is to hold corporations accountable rather than targeting them specifically for their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This clarification comes in light of recent actions by Walmart, where the company has rolled back several DEI programs, including ending a five-year commitment to an equity racial center initiated after George Floyd’s death. Furthermore, Walmart will no longer take into account the race and gender diversity of its suppliers or engage in surveys related to workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Schwarz, in a statement, referred to Walmart as “one of the most exploitative companies in the country” and highlighted that their strategy focuses on affecting corporate behavior through economic pressure rather than violent protests or empty promises.
In conjunction with the Walmart boycott, the group has also planned additional boycotts targeting Amazon from May 6-12, Target from June 3-9, and McDonald’s from June 24-30, culminating in a call for action on Independence Day, July 4.
This ongoing movement reflects a growing trend among consumers who are becoming more vocal about corporate responsibility and the ethical practices of the companies they support. Through these actions, advocates like Schwarz are striving to create significant change in corporate America.
The upcoming Walmart boycott, alongside the other organized protests, represents a significant moment for consumers to express their power and influence over corporate practices in the U.S.