A week-long boycott of Walmart began on April 7, 2025, as consumers across the United States respond to the retail giant's rollback of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Organized by the grassroots group People's Union USA, the boycott is part of a broader movement aimed at holding corporations accountable for their policies and practices that many believe contribute to economic inequality.
The boycott, which runs until April 14, includes all Walmart stores, online platforms, and Sam's Club locations. Shoppers are also urged to avoid Walmart's private label brands, such as Great Value, Equate, and Mainstays. John Schwarz, the founder of People's Union USA, has been vocal about his criticism of Walmart, calling it "one of the most exploitative companies in the country" in a recent Instagram video. He emphasized that the protest is not merely about the rollback of DEI policies but also a stand against corporate greed that he claims has led to rising prices and stagnant wages for American workers.
The impetus for this boycott stems from Walmart's decision to not renew a five-year commitment to an equity racial center established after the police killing of George Floyd. According to reports from NPR, Walmart also announced that it would no longer consider race or gender diversity in its supplier contracts, a move that has drawn ire from many consumers and advocacy groups alike.
Schwarz established People's Union USA in February 2025 to unite consumers against what he describes as the "greed and corruption" of large corporations. The group previously organized a 24-hour economic blackout on February 28, which was aimed at protesting companies that had dialed back their DEI initiatives following the return of President Donald Trump to office.
In his communications, Schwarz has urged supporters to "hold the line" during the Walmart boycott. He stated, "From today, the 7th to the 14th, absolutely no Walmart shopping. No in-store Walmart, no online, no Sam's Club, nothing Walmart. We will show them that we are the economy and without us they are nothing." He further explained that the boycott aims to compel corporations to pay their fair share of taxes and to support local businesses.
Walmart has responded to the boycott by asserting its commitment to community support, stating that it is "one of the largest corporate taxpayers in the country" and that it donated over $1.7 billion in cash and in-kind contributions last year. In a statement, Walmart emphasized its role in job creation and community support, claiming, "Serving communities is at the heart of Walmart's purpose to help people save money and live better. 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."
As the Walmart boycott unfolds, it is part of a larger context of consumer activism aimed at various retailers. A concurrent 40-day spending freeze on Target, which began earlier this year, is also in effect, targeting the same issues of DEI policy rollbacks. The People's Union USA has outlined additional boycotts through the summer, including future actions against General Mills, Amazon, Target, and McDonald's.
In total, Walmart operates 144 stores in North Carolina alone, with 22 Sam's Club locations. The reach of the boycott is significant, as the company employs thousands of workers across its locations. Critics of the boycott argue that it may lead to job losses and store closures, particularly in areas where Walmart is a primary employer. However, supporters maintain that the protest is necessary to hold corporations accountable for their actions.
As the boycott progresses, the impact on Walmart's sales and customer footfall remains to be seen. Social media has played a crucial role in mobilizing supporters, with Schwarz's accounts on TikTok and Instagram gathering substantial followings and engagement. Some consumers have expressed their commitment to the boycott, citing a desire to become more conscious of their shopping habits.
Looking ahead, the People's Union USA plans to continue its advocacy efforts, with more boycotts scheduled in the coming months. The organization aims not only to protest corporate practices but also to foster a sense of community among consumers who feel disenfranchised by large corporations.
The ongoing boycotts highlight a growing trend of consumer activism in the United States, as more individuals seek to use their purchasing power to influence corporate behavior. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how effective these boycotts will be in achieving their goals and whether they will lead to lasting changes in corporate policies.
