There’s a nationwide call for consumers to boycott spending later this month.

It began online.

“My fellow Americans, the 24 hour economic blackout is coming.”

With a group called the People’s Union urging people to speak with their wallets by refraining from spending on the last day of February unless it’s an emergency or if it benefits. small business.

“The economy does not belong to the rich. It belongs to us.”

The group’s website accuses major corporations of driving up prices, underpaying workers, and outsourcing jobs while raking in record profits.

See the full story from our news partners at CBS:  

Activists are calling for a nationwide boycott of Target stores following the company’s decision to roll back its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

The company announced on Jan. 24 that it would end its DEI goals that were previously set to increase Black employees’ representation and advancement, improve Black shoppers’ experiences and promote Black-owned businesses. They are also pulling back on efforts to include hiring and promoting women, minorities, LGBTQ+ people and veterans.

Activists held a press conference at Target headquarters in downtown Minneapolis Thursday morning.

“For decades, Target has benefitted from nearly unfettered support from Minnesota residents, families and consumers all around the country. In the past, Target was known for its diversity initiatives and reputation for supporting diverse communities,” said civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong. “Now Target has shown its true face by deciding to roll back its focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion by putting profits and politics over people.”

Armstrong encouraged Minnesotans to start boycotting Target stores indefinitely starting Saturday, Feb. 1.

Speakers at Thursday’s event made two requests: for employees to speak up and for shoppers to shop elsewhere.

The fact Target actually increased DEI efforts after George Floyd’s murder is making the company’s decision that much more unbelievable for people like Jaylani Hussein, spokesperson for CAIR-MN.

“If you would have told me in those summers and months to come here today, talking about Target reversing its decision, I would personally say I couldn’t believe it,” said Hussein.

“If we all decide to boycott and be like, ‘No, we’re not spending no money at these organizations,’ so many of us will be affected and our sales would drop our business would be hurt,” said Brown.

“We remain focused on driving our business by creating a sense of belonging for our team, guests and communities through a commitment to inclusion,” Target said in its initial statement explaining the rollback. “Belonging for all is an essential part of our team and culture, helping fuel consumer relevance and business results.”

The decision raised questions about the future of Target’s philanthropic commitments. A company spokesperson told the Associated Press that the “recent update does not impact Target Foundation giving,” but added that, “as always, the foundation will continue to evaluate how it best supports organizations, coalitions and networks.”

Shortly after Target’s announcement, Twin Cities Pride, a longtime partner, said the company would not be welcome at this year’s Pride celebration and renounced $50,000 in funding. Less than 24 hours later, Twin Cities Pride said community donations had filled the gap.

https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/how-to-watch-activists-call-for-boycott-of-target-following-rollback-of-dei-initiatives/