Corporate Resistance Thread - Boycott on February 28

[Jaymann]

The idea is a show of strength by the resistance. On that day don't buy anything, no food (including fast food), no gas, no widgets (including online), nothing. It is difficult to find things you can do to resist the darkness. Here you can participate by literally doing nothing. I may go to the store on the 27th, but I'm in.

Post if you plan on participating.

[hepcat]

I can find no indication that this is happening. Are you sure this isn't an attempt to just have a boardgame day at your place with your friends having nothing else to do because of the "boycott"?

[Max Peck]

Every day is leg National Consumer Boycott Day here in Canada when it comes to anything labelled "Made in USA".

[hepcat]

EXCEPT for Hepcat brand hair products, right? I say that because I don't believe I've seen any photos of Canadians lately with flat, lifeless hair.

[LordMortis]

Most days are non consumerism days for me. I pretty much pay bills I have to pay, fill the tank once a month, and get groceries every week to two. I will say the 28th might be inconvenient and grocery day, when it happens, is generally on Fridays, as Friday is the day when most ad previews come up before most weekly deals expire. Except for Kroger, who do 4x gas points of Fridays. This and I already am a non consumer of fascist support businesses whenever possible. As example, even membership to the Chamber of Commerce will see me looking to take my business elsewhere. Anyone stupid enough to both advertise their business from their driveway while also flying a "Make Liberals Cry Again" flag from their home? "Well, bye."

I have some major purchases this year, for the first time in a very long time. Foundation work, new roof, and new car are all on the front burner for 2025. I will be taking into consideration how the money flows for all of these purchases. Including having something approaching disloyalty to auto assembled in my state. I may even try to find a good non affiliated mechanic and try to hold off on the new car for another (few) year(s). It's hard to say. A Ford Focus wasn't really meant to last 18+ years.

[$iljanus]

How is not going to my local coffee shop or restaurant fighting the power? Don't buy from Amazon or a big box store that rolled back DEI, sure. Maybe people should just leave Twitter for a day or two or forever instead of penalizing a small business that can use your cash.

I'd support a minority worker sickout.

[hepcat]

There WAS a National Day Without Immigrants protest a few days ago.

However, since the United States considers SexyLand a territory, I'm not technically an immigrant.

[$iljanus]

Maybe we need a national strike.

But I think we also need even more motivated lawyers to join the fight and wage an effective resistance. Everyone is quick with lawyer jokes until their rights are being trampled.

I'm not a lawyer. As a retired scientist though I'll say everyone also laughs at the nerds and elite scientists until they're begging for that new cancer drug that that was either researched at or had funding by the NIH because their cancer no longer responds to conventional treatment. But I digress

[LordMortis]

How is not going to my local coffee shop or restaurant fighting the power? Don't buy from Amazon or a big box store that rolled back DEI, sure. Maybe people should just leave Twitter for a day or two or forever instead of penalizing a small business that can use your cash.

Works for me. And works for me for more than just the 28th. Maybe it's time to close my FB account for rolling back DEI. That's something I will now be thinking about. Amazon already only have me for when I am forced into gift cards from them, which is surprisingly often or when I literally can't find a specific widget somewhere else (B&M specialty widget stores have gone extinct, but I've been able to still alt source most things reputable alternates). I didn't do this Amazon for political purposes. I did it because Amazon have come to be nonchalant to point of being negligent of their (non prime?) customers in the last decade.

is there a running list of corporations rolling back their DEI?

[Kraken]

I routinely go days at a time without buying anything so odds are I'd participate in this even if I didn't know about it. If it becomes an actual movement? Easy-peasy.

[Max Peck]

is there a running list of corporations rolling back their DEI?

Spoiler: It's all of them.

GM, Pepsi, Amazon Appear To Remove Some References To DEI From Annual Reports—Here Are All The Companies Rolling Back DEI

[LordMortis]

I'm not sure I have the ability to cut google at this point but I'm seriously contemplating shutting down FB entirely. Those are the only 2 from that list that I knowingly interact with. I even went so far as to block Xhitter embeds on my own (my blocker makes the rule even more draconian. By plonking embeds it also plonks the links, so now curiosity can't even pull forward for me anymore. FB may next. I'm thinking very hard on it). I am ambivalent about OO doing it, but for all intents and purposes Xhitter is dead to me.

[Jaymann]

How is not going to my local coffee shop or restaurant fighting the power? Don't buy from Amazon or a big box store that rolled back DEI, sure. Maybe people should just leave Twitter for a day or two or forever instead of penalizing a small business that can use your cash.

I think the concept is to show the impact of a concerted effort on the economy, not to punish small businesses. If you must purchase, use them. If Amazon, Walmart and Starbucks see a significant dip they may take notice.

[Blackhawk]

is there a running list of corporations rolling back their DEI?

Spoiler: It's all of them.

GM, Pepsi, Amazon Appear To Remove Some References To DEI From Annual Reports—Here Are All The Companies Rolling Back DEI

I was about to say that. I've said that Indiana only does horrific things after Florida or Texas do them first and absorb all the media attention. That's corporations now. So many companies have cut DEI (and similar programs) that you simply don't hear about them anymore.

I'll also say that the whole issue is more complex than it appears on the surface.

Variants of the term "DEI" are toxic right now. Some companies have simply carefully rephrased their policies and/or changed how they're communicated. Some companies continue to support the idea behind DEI, but can't afford the losses that come with keeping the terminology, especially keeping the terminology public-facing. And it gets far more complicated for companies with government contracts. They eliminate DEI, or they lose their contracts and go out of business.

Some of those companies deserve not just continued support, but to have as many people as possible shift from the truly awful companies (Amazon and Walmart, for example) to them. The problem is, the companies continuing to quietly support DEI under different names can't do so openly, so we have no idea who they are.

If there's going to be action (like strikes, or boycotts), it's going to have to include the good companies with the bad, which sucks. It may also be one of the only tools we have. Hell, rename it 'Corporate-free Fridays' and make it weekly. That would make a dent.

But I'll also state that this should be limited to corporate businesses. And if any have the guts to openly stand up for diversity, they should be excluded as well. Instead, continue to shop local, or shift your business local-only as much as possible. It'll take just as much of a bite out of corporate bullshit, but won't punish mom-and-pop stores. Not only that, it'll make the whole thing more practical - you don't have to stop shopping or stop eating out one time (or once a week!), but it will absolutely have a similar impact on corporations.

[Blackhawk]

Personally? I just convinced myself. Local Fridays are now a thing for me.

I've already dumped my Facebook account. There were two people I stayed there for. One went MAGA +5, the other left as well. My Twitter account was deactivated long ago. I've pulled back as much as possible from Amazon (which is tough, living in the middle of nowhere), and only shop at Walmart when I have to (it's the only general goods store left within 25 miles of me.)

[Zarathud]

EXCEPT for Hepcat brand hair products, right? I say that because I don't believe I've seen any photos of Canadians lately with flat, lifeless hair.

This is why they wear toques. To hide the shame.

[hepcat]

I'll be honest, I feel like annexing Canada based solely on the fact that toque is fun to say.

[gilraen]

I'm probably in just by virtue of already having plans that day that do not include any new purchases whatsoever.

[Jaymann]

The word is spreading...

[El Guapo]

EXCEPT for Hepcat brand hair products, right? I say that because I don't believe I've seen any photos of Canadians lately with flat, lifeless hair.

And gilk. Obviously gilk is a necessity.

I've been thinking about how to alter my consumer habits in light of...everything, so I may do this. I did read I think that CostCo is an exception to big companies rolling back their DEI, so thinking about spending more money there.

[hepcat]

They do have great prices on tubs of frosting.

Spoiler:

CALLBACK

[Blackhawk]

Can I make a suggestion? Rename this to ''The Corporate Resistance Thread' or something similar. People aren't just boycotting on the 28th, they're changing their spending habits to avoid the worst offenders, they're degoogling, they're dropping problematic corporate stocks, they're parking/selling their Teslas, they're changing what apps they use, and so on.

It would be good to have a central place to discuss these subjects and share ideas. This thread is already headed in that direction.

[gbasden]

is there a running list of corporations rolling back their DEI?

Spoiler: It's all of them.

It's not *all* of them. I'm happy to be working for a company that is absolutely committed to keeping their DEI initiative.

https://www.axios.com/2025/01/16/dei-ro ... -mcdonalds

[Alefroth]

is there a running list of corporations rolling back their DEI?

Spoiler: It's all of them.

It's not *all* of them. I'm happy to be working for a company that is absolutely committed to keeping their DEI initiative.

https://www.axios.com/2025/01/16/dei-ro ... -mcdonalds

Is it one we can support?

[Blackhawk]

Makes me wish I had a Costco around here instead of just a bunch of Walmarts and Sam's Clubs.

I will still say that I hope there is a big, behind-the-scenes difference between language and action.

Language

Stanley Black & Decker

The company scrubbed references to diversity, equity and inclusion from its website. A rep for the company did not return Axios' request for comment.

Action:

Lowe's

Lowe's told employees it would revise its resource groups, stop participating in Human Rights Campaign surveys, and stop sponsoring or participating in festivals and parades.

One of those could still be taking worthwhile action and just not talking about it, the other is taking meaningful steps to eliminate beneficial actions.m

[gbasden]

is there a running list of corporations rolling back their DEI?

Spoiler: It's all of them.

It's not *all* of them. I'm happy to be working for a company that is absolutely committed to keeping their DEI initiative.

https://www.axios.com/2025/01/16/dei-ro ... -mcdonalds

Is it one we can support?

You certainly can if you wish. I work for Microsoft supporting California State Government agencies.

[Zarathud]

They do have great prices on tubs of frosting.

Spoiler:

CALLBACK

And Wheat Thins.

Spoiler:

Needs more callback.

[hepcat]

Callbacks have to be accessible by the folks here. They don’t have access to our group emails. Which, considering your love of describing in detail any and all warts and corns found on your person, is something they should all be going to church daily to thank God.

[Jaymann]

Can I make a suggestion? Rename this to ''The Corporate Resistance Thread' or something similar. People aren't just boycotting on the 28th, they're changing their spending habits to avoid the worst offenders, they're degoogling, they're dropping problematic corporate stocks, they're parking/selling their Teslas, they're changing what apps they use, and so on.

It would be good to have a central place to discuss these subjects and share ideas. This thread is already headed in that direction.

Done. And I can change it again after the 28th.

[Zarathud]

First Republicans targeted socially responsible investing, now DEI. Because they cant let liberals take over capitalism. Investing based on the long-term risks and effects of the business decisions to consumers and government leaves no room for the short term 80s era Pump and Dump Capitalism that is Trump’s business model. You can’t include the others, you take them over and replace him with a White guy who will do business your way. Nevermind that you’ll miss the international market or new ideas that DEI brings into the discussion. They leave no room for being a racist philanderer.

[Blackhawk]

As of today, I'll be canceling my Amazon Prime renewal, worth about $15 per month. I've had the account active since probably 2008. That money, instead of being funneled to Jeff Bezos, will instead go to the local Pride Center.

[Blackhawk]

...and done.

[Apollo]

We're doing this to protest companies getting rid of DEI? Seriously? All the things he's doing (or plotting) and we want to make this tiny statement that will probably go unnoticed about the most popular thing Trump has done?

The Left keeps digging their hole deeper and deeper, but you guys go ahead. I'll wait for the protests against his illegal policies that help him and other Billionaires cheat the system, his total disregard for the law, his desire to hurt America's friends and help it's enemies, his desire to get rid of every part of the government that restrains his power as chief executive, etc. etc.

[Blackhawk]

Why not both?

[Alefroth]

We're doing this to protest companies getting rid of DEI? Seriously? All the things he's doing (or plotting) and we want to make this tiny statement that will probably go unnoticed about the most popular thing Trump has done?

The Left keeps digging their hole deeper and deeper, but you guys go ahead. I'll wait for the protests against his illegal policies that help him and other Billionaires cheat the system, his total disregard for the law, his desire to hurt America's friends and help it's enemies, his desire to get rid of every part of the government that restrains his power as chief executive, etc. etc.

What are you doing?

$15/month isn't tiny for everyone.

[gilraen]

We're doing this to protest companies getting rid of DEI? Seriously? All the things he's doing (or plotting) and we want to make this tiny statement that will probably go unnoticed about the most popular thing Trump has done?

The Left keeps digging their hole deeper and deeper, but you guys go ahead. I'll wait for the protests against his illegal policies that help him and other Billionaires cheat the system, his total disregard for the law, his desire to hurt America's friends and help it's enemies, his desire to get rid of every part of the government that restrains his power as chief executive, etc. etc.

Okay, please let us in on the grand action that you are taking that will make all the difference. I'll wait.

[hepcat]

I hope it involves the giant baby Trump balloon.

[LordMortis]

Surprising me at least, this was a top headline on my stock ticker on my phone.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/economic-b ... les-union/

I can easily not spend a dime next Friday. That's doesn't even register as barely an inconvenience for me but I can't see it being a blip on anyone's radar. Even if 10 million people stayed home for one day and then prepaid consumption or waited until Saturday that's next to nothing for the economy. It might hit some restaurateurs who likely aren't largely the object of the blackout anyway. Then you add that if a blackout feverish (in)action spread somehow was awareness raising enough beforehand then MAGA would over consume on Friday and wealthy would somehow find their their single time in a generation to lavishly charity spend for a day.

However, if they gain traction (which I doubt but at this point they would get my notice) I'd be happy to see a 2020s more successful and enduring Occupy like movement to get behind and I would do more than what is not even an inconvenience for me...

But, he added, the economic blackout could become bigger, snowballing into more events across the U.S. The People's Union is planning additional blackouts aimed at specific retailers, such as an event from March 7-14 to halt spending at Amazon.

Which again would require no effort or consideration on my part unless OO or BGA is using AWS. When we get to blacking out META for a week let me know. That will actually require the bare minimum from me, to not check in for a week. Alphabet. Now that would be a pretty big inconvenience, even as I have already reduced my Google footprint by probably 30% or more in the past month. I probably should find a minimal paid for mail and planner solution that I can mindlessly coordinate between desktop and phone that also has a good UI. They are still the hardest presence for me remove practically, affordably, and efficiently. Aside from that, I still youtube my morning fitness program with guerilla ad blockers so I can actually do my morning fitness program. I'd need to find an alternative to that. I probably should find one now, quite frankly.

[Victoria Raverna]

You can always go to TikTok for your morning fitness program.

[Blackhawk]

It won't have any economic impact, no. At best*, corporations might see a 10% drop one day, followed by a 7% boost the next (as people buy their stuff on Saturday instead.)

The potential benefit is that it could be an ice breaker. It's an effortless opportunity to actively do something, to make a choice. Once people have made that choice the first time, it becomes easier for them to make another choice, and another. It could help get people moving.

*numbers based on carefully selecting random figures that popped into my head