Economic Blackout

February 18, 2025 – John Abrams

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It has occurred to me that an economic response to Trump and his broligarchy—reducing or stopping spending that further enriches the Musk-Bezos-et al. cartel—might make sense. I guess I’m not alone, because recently I received, from a politically active friend, this news about an upcoming “economic blackout.” Apparently, it originated with an organization called The People’s Union, about which I know little. But I like their idea. I am going to participate, and I urge you to join me and spread the word to others.

Here’s the deal:

The 24 Hour Economic Blackout

• As the initial act, we turn off spending for one day by not doing certain things.

When

• For 24 hours on February 28th, from midnight to midnight.

What Not To Do

• Do not shop online or in-store at Amazon, Walmart, and all major retailers.

• Do not spend money on fast food, restaurant chains, or gas.

• Do not make discretionary purchases.

• And DEFINITELY don’t buy a Tesla (on Feb 28th or any other day, for that matter), something I have been guilty of in the past.

What To Do

• Only buy essentials (food, medicine, emergency supplies), and only if necessary.

• If you must spend, only support small local businesses.

Spread The Message

• Talk about it, post about it, and document your actions that day!

Why This Matters

• If we disrupt the economy (somewhat) for just one day, it may begin something that becomes powerful over time.

• If they don't listen (they won’t), we make the next blackout longer and keep building the effort.

• Already there is an Amazon blackout scheduled for March 7-14 (please join that one too).

What We Want

• To build resistance to the destructive and unconstitutional actions of the Trump administration, Elon Musk, and the broligarchy of billionaires.

This is a beginning. Can it get traction and make a difference? We will only find out by trying.

Protests against the administration’s cruelty and law-breaking are beginning to mount, although they are barely reported in the mainstream media. See this article.

In addition, there is also a movement slowly building towards a general strike, with a goal of 11+ million participants, which may become important if we come to a full constitutional crisis. Historically, around the world, general strikes have been effective at catalyzing change. Have a look!

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