Some U.S. consumers participated in a 24-hour buying boycott on Feb. 28, targeting all economic activity—especially major retailers—as a way to show politicians that everyday consumers can control the economy.
The blackout was organized by The People’s Union USA and was its first action, described as “a symbolic start to economic resistance, a day where we show corporations and politicians that we control the economy,” per the group’s website.
Consumers were instructed to not shop online, or in-store, and not to spend money on gas and fast food. They were also advised not to use their credit or debit cards for non-essential spending. The People’s Union website made a point of noting that consumers can buy “necessary” essentials including food and medicine, while maintaining the key aim of supporting small, local businesses.
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The People’s USA founder John Schwarz posted on Instagram on Friday evening that the blackout was a success, and thanked those who took part. He alluded to mass movement and participation in the blackout, though true numbers of the economic effects of the blackout have yet to be determined.
“I have been receiving comments and emails and comments all day from people across the country, all across the world, who are standing in solidarity with us,” he said. “We have made the economic blackout a household name. The People’s Union USA, a movement, an organization that started three weeks ago, has massive traction, and it is because of you.”
Here’s everything you need to know about the movement behind the blackout.
What is The People’s Union USA?
The People’s Union USA is a “movement of people” organized to show consumers that they are “stronger together,” according to the group’s website.
“If you believe in taking back power, breaking free from economic control, and building a future where the people ‘not corporations’ decide the direction of this country, then join us,” the website states in a call to action.
The People’s Union USA has also planned more 24-hour boycotts in March and April, as well as specific and targeted boycotts in later months, including an Amazon-focused boycott in early March, a Néstle-centric boycott in late March, and a Walmart-aimed boycott in April.
The movement has also fundraised over $100,000 as of Saturday morning, according to the GoFundMe page linked on its website. The People’s Union says the money will go to “legal fees, organization development, web development, outreach, marketing, event organization, and more.” On the “Your Donations” tab of the movement’s website, they break down their expenses so far.
The group’s goal is to “unionize the people,” which would eventually include establishing a nonprofit organization and legal representation, and organizing membership in order to “establish the infrastructure necessary for a functioning nationwide union or citizens.”
Is The People's Union USA affiliated with a political party?
The movement specifies on its website that it is not affiliated with any political party, but rather aims to “transcend political labels.”
"We are a movement for ALL people, regardless of race, gender, religion, or political affiliation,” the movement states on its Frequently Asked Questions page. “We fight for fairness, economic justice, and real systemic change, something neither party has prioritized.”
Though they are not affiliated with a political party, they still have political stances publicized online.
Under a question about whether they support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), which has come under fire by the Trump Administration, the movement reiterated their firm support.
“We stand firmly for equality and freedom for ALL people, regardless of race, gender, background, or identity,” their position reads. “The idea that companies and institutions should abandon diversity and inclusivity is regressive and unacceptable.”
Other political stances on the website include advocating for no more federal income taxes for American citizens, making basic goods affordable, term limits for Congress, universal free healthcare, and more.
They also state that they are not against any one specific individual—President Donald Trump and new DOGE Administrator Elon Musk included: “This movement is not about one person… Our focus is systemic change, not political drama.”
Who is the founder of The People's Union USA?
The People’s Union USA was founded by John Schwarz, according to its website, a Queens-born musician and meditation teacher.
“I am not a politician. I am not a corporate backed activist,” he said in his bio. “I am just a man who has lived through struggle, seen the truth, and decided to do something about it.”
Schwarz describes the struggle throughout his life, and how that showed him that “the system wasn’t built for people like ‘him.’”
“It didn’t matter what religion, spiritual belief, or political affiliation someone had,” his bio reads. “The system is designed to keep all of us trapped.”
When was The People's Union USA founded?
The People’s Union does not have a founding date on its website, but Schwarz began posting about his idea for the movement and the economic boycott in late January and early February, 2025.
“The People’s Union is here and our website is live.” Schwarz said in an Instagram post on Feb. 5. “This is no longer just a moment, this is truly a revolution of the people.”