A nationwide boycott of Walmart is set, spearheaded by People’s Union USA. The movement represents growing frustration with major corporations amid claims of corporate greed and the abandonment of social responsibility initiatives that many liberal consumers value. How effective have previous boycotts been at changing corporate policies?
Walmart Faces April 7 Boycott Amid Policy Changes
A nationwide boycott targeting Walmart stores is scheduled for April 7, organized by activist group People’s Union USA in response to the retail giant’s recent policy changes. The boycott specifically addresses Walmart’s decision to discontinue its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, including halting racial equity training and withdrawing from the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index.
People’s Union USA explained their motivation, stating, “No matter what side of the political fence you stand on, you should be able to agree that corporate greed and political corruption are choking this country.” The organization encourages consumers to shop locally instead of at the retail giant, representing a growing movement against what they perceive as harmful corporate practices.
Walmart boycott starts today. pic.twitter.com/cj6gMfL5rJ
— Heather Thomas (@HeatherThomasAF) April 7, 2025
Previous Boycott Results and Consumer Impact
A previous boycott on February 28 that targeted multiple retailers reportedly caused Walmart to experience a 5% drop in web traffic. However, data suggests Walmart’s consumer traffic has not been significantly impacted by its DEI policy changes overall, with only a modest decline noted among Asian consumers.
Interestingly, competitor Costco, which has maintained its DEI programs, saw a 22% increase in traffic on the same day as the previous boycott. This comparison highlights the potential business implications of corporate policy decisions around social issues and consumer alignment with brand values.
Liberals are now BOYCOTTING Walmart, because they’re ending their DEI policies…
— American AF 🇺🇸 (@iAnonPatriot) December 2, 2024
Broader Movement Against Corporate America
The April 7 boycott is just one part of a larger campaign planned by People’s Union USA throughout spring and summer. Additional actions include another Walmart boycott from May 20 to May 26 and a general economic blackout on April 18, demonstrating a sustained effort to pressure corporations.
Other major companies targeted in the upcoming boycotts include Amazon, McDonald’s, and General Mills, indicating a widespread movement against corporate practices. Civil rights leader Al Sharpton has also added to the pressure, calling on PepsiCo to restore its DEI programs or potentially face boycotts.
The organizers advocate for alternative shopping habits, stating, “If you need something, look locally; if you can’t find it locally, wait. We are cutting the cord.” This approach suggests a fundamental rethinking of consumer behavior as a tool for social and economic change.