Wave of Boycotts Sweeps America in 2025: From Retail Giants to Cultural Icons
As of March 20, 2025, the United States is experiencing a surge of consumer boycotts, driven by a mix of political, social, and economic grievances. Fueled by grassroots movements, social media campaigns, and reactions to corporate and government actions, Americans across the ideological spectrum are using their wallets to express dissent. Here’s a rundown of what’s currently being boycotted and why.
#Economic Blackouts and Corporate Targets
The People’s Union USA, a nonpartisan grassroots organization, has spearheaded a series of "economic blackouts" and targeted boycotts to protest corporate greed, the influence of billionaires, and rollbacks of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Their efforts began with a 24-hour spending freeze on February 28, urging Americans to avoid all purchases, including gas and fast food, to send a message to big corporations and politicians. Following this, they’ve scheduled additional actions:
- **Amazon**: A weeklong boycott from March 7-14, extended in some circles, targets the e-commerce giant for scaling back DEI programs and its owner Jeff Bezos’ decision to halt a Washington Post endorsement of Kamala Harris during the 2024 election cycle. Critics also point to Amazon’s labor practices and market dominance.
#BoycottAmazon #NoDEI
- **Walmart**: Frequently cited in blackout calls, Walmart faces backlash for retreating from DEI commitments and its perceived alignment with policies under the Trump administration.
#BoycottWalmart #CorporateGreed
- **Target**: A focal point of multiple campaigns, Target is under fire from DEI supporters for rolling back initiatives like its Black History Month and Pride collections. A 40-day boycott, starting March 5 (Ash Wednesday), led by Black faith leaders, and a separate effort by We Are Somebody since February 1, aim to pressure the retailer. Conversely, conservative groups continue to shun Target for its past progressive stances.
#BoycottTarget #DEIMatters
- **McDonald’s**: Slated for a boycott from June 24-30 by the People’s Union, though some activists have already begun avoiding the fast-food chain over its corporate policies and perceived political neutrality.
#BoycottMcDonalds #FastFoodFail
Politically Charged Boycotts
The re-election of Donald Trump and his administration’s moves—such as slashing federal DEI programs and proposing aggressive tariff policies—have intensified boycott activity:
- **Tesla**: European sales have dropped amid a growing boycott linked to Elon Musk’s role in Trump’s administration and his controversial leadership of X. In the U.S., some liberals are joining the call, though Trump has labeled these efforts "illegal," citing economic disruption.
#BoycottTesla #MuskOut
- **U.S. Goods Broadly**: Internationally, Canada and parts of Europe are boycotting American products in response to Trump’s tariffs and provocative statements, like suggesting Canada become the 51st state. Apps like “Buy Beaver” in Canada help shoppers avoid U.S.-made items, from whiskey to pizza toppings.
#BoycottUSGoods #TradeWars