Priyanka Tiwari
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Walmart is once again in the spotlight, facing backlash from consumers protesting against corporate greed, economic inequality, and the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The movement has been organized by The People's Union USA and is part of a broader campaign called the “Economic Blackout Tour.”
Why Walmart Is Being Boycotted
Led by John Schwarz, the boycott of Walmart stems from several key concerns:
Corporate Taxes: The group accuses Walmart of not paying its fair share of taxes, placing a financial burden on Americans.
Economic Inequality: Critics argue that Walmart profits while wages remain stagnant.
DEI Initiatives: The protest also targets the company's withdrawal of DEI programs, a trend that followed former President Donald Trump’s rollback of federal DEI initiatives.
The boycott extends beyond Walmart’s stores to include its pharmacies, health services, online platforms, and Walmart+ subscription services.
In response, Walmart said it paid over $1.7 billion in cash and in-kind contributions last year and highlighted its role as one of the largest corporate taxpayers in the U.S.
Walmart’s Official Statement
“We remain faithful to earning the business of all Americans and giving our time and resources to causes that uplift and unite communities,” Walmart said in a statement to Newsweek. The company added that it continues to support disaster relief and hunger alleviation programs.
2025 Boycott Schedule: Major Retailers Affected
The People's Union has announced a series of boycotts targeting some of the largest U.S. retailers. Here is the full list of upcoming boycott dates:
Walmart: April 7–14
Economic Blackout 2 (multi-brand): April 18
General Mills: April 21–28
Amazon (Round 2): May 6–12
Walmart (Round 2): May 20–26
Target: June 3–9
McDonald’s: June 24–30
Independence Day Boycott (nationwide): July 4
Organizers say the movement is ongoing and will continue through July 4 as part of a broader push for corporate accountability.
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