Consumers Plan Boycotts Against Amazon, Walmart, Target on Black Friday/Cyber Monday
Consumer boycotts are gaining momentum as activists call for economic actions against major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. These movements, particularly during the peak shopping seasons of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, aim to challenge corporate practices perceived as detrimental to consumers and communities.
Key Dates for Boycotts
The scheduled boycotts align with significant shopping events in 2025:
- Black Friday: November 28, 2025
- Cyber Monday: December 1, 2025
The Movement Behind the Boycotts
The People’s Union USA is a prominent group organizing these economic protests. They advocate for “economic resistance, corporate accountability, and real justice for the working class.” Their initiatives have included spending pauses that last from 24 hours to one week.
Details on the Economic Blackout
This year, the People’s Union USA has announced a blackout running from November 28 to December 5, 2025. Participants are encouraged to refrain from shopping, streaming, and fast-food purchases. Instead, they are urged to support small, local businesses.
Another initiative, Blackout the System, plans its economic blackout from November 25 to December 2, 2025. Participants will likewise refrain from spending and are encouraged to stay at home during this period.
Responses from Major Retailers
Major retailers have faced significant backlash due to previous consumer boycotts. Target recently reported a decrease in sales and cut around 1,800 corporate jobs following adverse public perception linked to its rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Former CEO Brian Cornell stepped down in August amid the turmoil.
Walmart has defended its community contributions, stating it provided over $1.7 billion last year in cash and in-kind donations. The company has reassured customers of its commitment to community strengthening and economic support.
In a similar vein, McDonald’s expressed disappointment in response to claims targeting their corporate values, asserting their ongoing commitment to inclusion and community service.
The Rationale for the Boycotts
The current wave of boycotts specifically targets the reduction of DEI initiatives within corporations. Activists believe that by withholding spending during critical sales periods, they can send a clear message regarding corporate practices and priorities.
John Schwarz, the founder of the People’s Union USA, emphasized the importance of Black Friday as a significant opportunity for economic protest. He believes it’s essential to remind corporate leaders that consumers have the power to influence the marketplace effectively.
Conclusion
The upcoming Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales events in 2025 will serve as a crucial test for the effectiveness of these consumer boycotts against major retailers. With increased awareness and coordination among activists, these economic blackouts signal a growing demand for corporate accountability and ethical business practices.
