We the people will be taken to a whole new level on Friday as Americans are encouraged to participate in a 24-hour Economic Blackout.
The event is in protest of retailers who have responded to President Donald Trump‘s executive order and scaled back on diversity, equity and inclusivity (DEI) policies. Newsweek reported that PBS has closed its DEI offices, and Google, Amazon and Target are following the same steps.
ELPIS, a non-partisan organization devoted to promoting civic engagement, encourages local residents to join in the the 24-hour event, which is promoted by The Peoples Union USA.
“The 24-hour Economic Blackout is intended to show that we consumers can make a statement by voting with our dollars. Corporations care about their bottom lines. By choosing to refrain from economic activities for one day, we aim to highlight the impact of our collective actions and the importance of civic involvement,” an ELPIS representative said.
After thorough research into the non-partisan status of The Peoples Union USA, ELPIS believes the initiative presents an opportunity for individuals to collectively demonstrate their influence and power within the community and beyond.
“If we disrupt the economy for just one day, it sends a powerful message,” The Peoples Union USA wrote on its website.
The event is designed to raise awareness and empower participants to reflect on their role in the economy and society.
“The People’s Union is not just about resisting corruption, it is about exposing it. For decades, corporations, politicians and industries have worked together to rig the system against the American people.”
The following details of the Economic Blackout were taken from the website of The Peoples Union USA.
From Thursday, February 27 at midnight until Friday, February 28 at midnight:
• Do not make any purchases
• Do not shop online or in-store
• No Amazon, no Walmart, no Best Buy
• No major retailers
• Do not spend money on fast food or gas
• Do not use credit or debit cards for non-essential spending
What to do:
• Only buy essentials that are absolutely necessary (food, medicine, emergency supplies)
• If you must spend, support small, local businesses.
ELPIS is a small, but growing, group of local residents in and around Staunton, who began coming together in late 2024 to focus their attention and the attention of others on the power of community service as a positive force for our future. ELPIS is the Greek goddess of Hope. When Pandora opened the jar that released sickness, death
and other evils into the world, ELPIS remained inside to comfort humankind. The name’s initials also represent ideals that the group hopes to promote: Engagement, Love, Peace, Inspiration and Strength.
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Rebecca Barnabi
