Nationwide Economic Boycott Highlights Consumer Frustration with Corporations and Politics

The February 28 'economic blackout,' initiated by a grassroots organizer, aims to challenge corporate practices and rising costs but faces questions about its long-term impact.

John Schwarz, a meditation facilitator with no prior organizing experience, called for a 24-hour boycott of major retailers like Amazon and Walmart to protest corporate greed and rising living costs.
The movement has gained traction online, driven by public anger over economic inequality, corporate influence, and political decisions, including the rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives by major companies.
Experts remain skeptical about the boycott's effectiveness, citing its broad focus and lack of sustained action, with comparisons to historically successful, long-term protests like the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk have faced backlash, with European Tesla sales dropping significantly as customers protest Musk's controversial political actions and alignment with President Trump.
Schwarz plans to organize future targeted boycotts, including a week-long boycott of Amazon in March, as he seeks to build a more coordinated and impactful movement.