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By Hugh Cameron
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Another nationwide boycott of Walmart is set to commence next week, with Americans being urged to avoid the company's physical stores and online services.
The boycott, the second to face Walmart following one in early April, will take place from May 20 to May 26. The People's Union USA, the advocacy group leading the action, has accused the retail giant of "crushing" small businesses and underpaying its employees.
Newsweek has reached out to the People's Union USA via email and Walmart via online contact form for comment.
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Why It Matters
Several major American companies have been targeted by the "economic blackout" movement this year, including Amazon, Nestlé and food company General Mills. Those leading the campaign have cited tax avoidance, labor conditions as well as general harmful business practices by the corporations as their motivation.
Certain companies have also been subject to protests and boycotts in recent weeks for scaling back diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, something for which Walmart has faced criticism. The upcoming boycotts, however, are specifically focused on addressing what the organizers view as corporate malpractice.
What To Know
The People's Union USA has said it is including Walmart among the list of companies targeted by the blackout "because they've become the symbol of everything that's wrong with corporate power in this country." It listed encouraging corporations "paying their fair share of taxes" among the goals of the boycotts.
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In a post on its website before the April 7-14 boycott, The People's Union USA urged Americans to avoid all retail stores and online platforms, as well as the company's health services such as Walmart Pharmacy and Walmart Vision Center. The boycott also extends to Sam's Club, the membership-based warehouse retail chain operated by Walmart, and the company's financial services.
What People Are Saying
Walmart, in a statement shared with Newsweek during the April blackout, said: "Serving communities is at the heart of Walmart's purpose to help people save money and live better.
"As one of the largest corporate taxpayers in the country, not only do we pay our fair share, we are an economic force multiplier strengthening communities nationwide through job creation, supplier growth, and over $1.7 billion in cash and in-kind donations last year, equal to 8 percent of our profit before tax, supporting local charities and causes such as disaster response, hunger relief, workforce development, and conservation.
"We remain dedicated to earning the business of all Americans and giving our time and resources to causes that uplift and unite communities who rely on us every day."
The People's Union USA, in a post on its website in April, wrote: "Walmart is one of the biggest beasts in the game. A mega-corporation that has swallowed up local economies, crushed small businesses, underpaid their employees, and helped fund the same political machine that keeps us all stuck."
What Happens Next?
In addition to the Walmart "blackout," John Schwarz, founder of The People's Union USA, has announced a series of further boycotts:
- Target: June 3-9.
- McDonald's: June 24-30.
- Independence Day boycott: July 4.
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