Friday, Feb 28, 2025 all day, Global Economic Blackout

About: No spending for 24 hours

Americans are pledging to stop making any purchases for a full 24 hours on February 28.

The national economic blackout is scheduled as a way for Americans to boycott major retailers that have pulled back on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies as a response to President Donald Trump.

Why It Matters

Early into his presidency, Trump ended several DEI initiatives in the federal government. He issued an executive order that funds could be frozen for companies that do not comply, and Trump also outlawed any messaging that promotes inclusion-based language.

The orders have caused PBS to close its DEI office, while major companies like Amazon, Target and Google are taking steps to dissolve DEI initiatives.

What To Know

While the nationwide economic blackout applies to all discretionary spending, the organizers are targeting some retailers in particular.

This includes:

• Amazon
• Walmart
• Best Buy

But participants are also asked to refrain from spending money on fast food or gas.