EXPLAINER: There are calls to boycott McDonald’s, here’s why

HOUSTON – You may have seen calls for boycotts against McDonald’s online and across social media, but while the calls to do so are real, the question remains whether an economic blackout will have an impact.

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The People’s Union USA, led by John Schwarz, is now calling on people to boycott McDonald’s starting Tuesday through next Monday, explaining in an Instagram post that he’s demanding “fair taxes, an end to price gouging, real equality, and corporate accountability.”

Back in January, McDonald’s became the latest company to shift its diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in the wake of a 2023 ruling and conservative backlash. The fast food giant joined other big companies like Walmart, John Deere, and Harley-Davidson, for example, that rolled back their DEI initiatives last year.

That’s why Schwarz, a meditation teacher based in Chicago, advised participants to join in an “economic blackout” back in February, and refrain from making any purchases either in stores or online, to shun fast food, and to avoid filling their car gas tanks. Shoppers with emergencies or in need of essentials should support a local small business instead, he said.

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Experts say an economic boycott can be an effective form of protest-- when executed properly. However, CNN notes Schwarz’s “economic blackout” effort is relatively uncoordinated and nebulous.

Some retailers, though, may feel a slight pinch from a broad “blackout.” Renewed inflation worries and President Donald Trump’s threat of tariffs on imported goods have already affected consumer sentiment and spending.

In a statement to CNN, McDonald’s said that it welcomes “honest dialogue with the communities we serve, but we’re disappointed to see these misleading claims that distort our values and misrepresent our actions.”

The company also said its “commitment to inclusion remains steadfast,” pointing to the “meaningful work opportunities” provided to 800,000 restaurant workers and the millions of dollars spent with suppliers.

“The McDonald’s System also generates billions in federal, state, and local taxes annually, and we’ll continue to pay our fair share,” the statement concluded..

CNN and The Associated Press contributed to this report.