'Economic Blackout' Planned For Friday: Find Out What's Planned

LONG ISLAND, NY — On Long Island, some residents are preparing to participate in what's called an "Economic Blackout" Friday — when they will refrain from buying anything from major retailers for 24 hours.

An organization called The People's Union USA, founded by John Schwarz, wrote: "What we are building is not just about resisting corruption, it is about exposing it. For decades, corporations, politicians, and industries have worked together to rig the system against the American people. They have built an economy designed to exploit workers, suppress wages, and keep the majority of us in a constant state of struggle. These are the forces that have stolen our financial freedom, manipulated our government, and kept power in the hands of the wealthy elite."

On Friday, from midnight to midnight, the organization urged Americans not to make any purchases, shop online or in-store. "No Amazon, No Walmart, No Best Buy," they wrote, adding that shoppers should not spend money on fast food, gas, and major retailers, and shouldn't use credit or debit cards for non-essential spending.

People can, they say, buy essentials such as food, medicine and emergency supplies but should only frequent local, small businesses.

"Corporations and banks only care about their bottom line," the People's Union USA wrote on their website. "If we disrupt the economy for just ONE day, it sends a powerful message."

On Long Island, residents are ready to participate. Beth Shapiro, a member of the Facebook group Suffolk Progressives, wrote: "A couple of friends reached out to talk about the motivation for the economic blackout tomorrow," she said. "Do I think it will have an impact on the economy? No. Do I think it will have an impact on the stock market? No. But here's what I do think: Two points. We have been underestimated. I think there will be genuine shock that millions of us are organized and ready to do battle. 100 people calling their Long Island representatives every day sends a good message. But I would be shocked if (Rep. Andrew) Garbarino or (Rep. Nick) LaLota believes we are coast to coast, north to south in solidarity. (Senator Chuck) Schumer doesn't believe it. And for sure, the felons in Washington don't believe it. So there's my motivation."

She added: "The second point is that this is good for us! We are regrouping after a brutal few months. We are planning and taking action. I, for one, will be very happy to see so many of us on one page tomorrow. And we all deserve that satisfaction."

"We have nothing to lose," another member of the group wrote. "But we have an opportunity to send a message."