The organizers of the national Walmart boycott have issued an update ahead of the action beginning on Monday, April 7.
Newsweek has reached out to Walmart via an online contact form and to John Schwartz of the People’s Union USA via email for comment outside of regular working hours.
Why It Matters
There have been waves of consumer-driven blackouts across America following the reelection of President Donald Trump and there is a growing trend of people engaging in consumer activism, targeting corporations for their decisions on issues like diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies.
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What To Know
The People’s Union USA is organizing the boycott of Walmart, following similar action from the union directed toward Nestlé and Amazon.
Ahead of the boycott beginning, John Schwartz of the People’s Union USA shared an update in a video on TikTok.
“To those fighting the fight, this Monday we begin the Walmart blackout. Seven days no shopping, no orders, nothing. And this is not about hate, this is about strategy, it’s about our power. Because if we don’t start fighting the fight now, there won’t be much left to fight for.”
He continued, “This is where we once again draw the line, this is again where we say enough. Seven days of economic resistance, and not just Walmart, it’s time to get serious across the board. Start pulling back, stop spending on what you don’t need.”
Schwartz added, “This movement is not against the people. It is for them. We lift each other up, we protect our communities, and we show the giants that we’re not afraid to fight back. Be safe my friends, be vigilant, but don’t be quiet.”
The boycott is directed at: Retail Stores, Online Platforms, Private Label Brands, Pharmacy & Health Services, Financial Services, Warehouse Clubs, Subscription Services and Grocery Delivery & Pickup.
What People Are Saying
John Schwartz of the People’s Union USA in an email shared with Newsweek: “We’re boycotting Walmart because they’ve become the symbol of everything that’s wrong with corporate power in this country… Our mission is simple, we want these corporations to start paying their fair share of taxes so the American people can finally be relieved of the burden of federal income tax.
“We’re also calling for real equality, across the board, without question. This boycott is about showing them that we are the economy. We fund their success. And we can shift our money to local businesses or simply choose not to shop at all, anytime we want. If they want our dollars, they need to start respecting the people who keep them in business.”
One social media user commented on John Schwartz’s TikTok post: “This is crazy! All you are doing is forcing them to downsize its workforce. Many people will lose their jobs, and stores will close. In this economy, who can afford it?”
Another social media user wrote: “I haven’t shopped at Walmart of Sam’s Club for almost one full year. Never will again. My boycott is forever. Join me.”
What’s Next
The boycott begins on April 7 and will last until April 14.