Black Americans are projected to spend nearly $2 trillion on goods and services by 2030. Despite this buying power, the NAACP says many corporations continue to profit from Black dollars while undermining diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) commitments. And in response to corporate DEI rollbacks, there is a growing movement to unionize citizens, educate consumers and disrupt the economy.
People’s Union USA is trying to unite all Americans for a 24 hour Economic Blackout on February 28. Unlike traditional labor unions, People's Union says instead of fighting for better wages at a single job, they are fighting for a fundamental shift in power.
"Power has always belonged to the people, it’s just been stolen from us, manipulated, and locked behind systems designed to keep us divided, distracted, and struggling," the union wrote on its website. "If we disrupt the economy for just one day, it sends a powerful message. If they don't listen (they won't), we make the next blackout longer (we will)."
Be an informed buyer
Inevitably, people will shop at some point. To promote informed spending decisions, the NAACP created the Black Consumer Advisory, an online guide with insight into companies that support diversity and those who don’t. The purpose is to help Black consumers be intentional in their economic decisions.
"We're done with empty, and broken promises," said Keisha Bross, NAACP Director of Opportunity, Race and Justice. "This is not a call to boycott, it's a call for corporations and individuals to buy into the values and principles that reflect our interests."
While the NAACP is promoting a buycott, local civil rights leaders and activist want an old fashioned boycott when it comes to Target. Target rolled back its DEI commitments in January, the same week that President Donald Trump ordered the end of DEI programs at federal agencies.
"Target is a Minnesota based business. Target knows what its commitment to DEI means to this community,” said Nekima Levy-Armstrong, local civil rights leader. “Until Target decides to reverse course, they are going to understand the power of our black dollar."
Instead of shopping at Target, consumers are asked to buy directly from the websites of Black businesses owners who sell products there. Local activist Monique Cullars-Doty likened efforts to the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott.
"For 13 months, no one got on the bus. Boycotts work if no one gets on the bus," she said, adding there is no exception for Tabitha Brown and Houston White, both prominent Black figures who sell products at Target. White, an entrepreneur from North Minneapolis, shared his opposing view in a social media post.
Several other major companies, including Walmart, Amazon and Meta have rolled back their DEI policies. According to the NAACP, these rollbacks not only harm Black communities, professionals, and entrepreneurs but also erode the progress made toward creating equitable economic and social systems.
Comments