Jamaicans in the US are participating in a nationwide boycott to protest cuts to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives attributed to the Trump Administration. Organized by The People’s Union USA, the boycott encourages a 24-hour economic blackout against major retailers while urging support for local businesses. Various community leaders express solidarity, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment and ongoing advocacy for equity. Subsequent boycotts targeting specific companies are planned in the coming weeks.
Jamaicans in the United States are joining a national boycott today, protesting recent cuts to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives as labeled by organizers as an affront from the Trump Administration. DEI aims to ensure equitable treatment and participation for historically marginalized groups, particularly regarding race.
The People’s Union USA has organized this 24-hour economic blackout, urging consumers to refrain from non-essential spending, particularly with major corporations like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and McDonald’s. Instead, they encourage supporting local businesses while discouraging the use of credit and debit cards for online transactions during the boycott period.
Among the supporters, Dr. Allan Cunningham, former head of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council for Southern USA, expressed his solidarity, emphasizing the effectiveness of collective action. Juliet Mattadeen, a retired real estate broker, agreed, noting the demands of the initiative are reasonable. Patrick Callum, leader of the New York Chapter of G2K, highlighted the significance of the boycott in maintaining fairness, even as some corporations claim to continue their DEI efforts.
Stafford Grant, president of the Ex-Service Men and Women of Jamaica, echoed the same resolve, stating the need to confront challenges faced by minorities. Mark Millward, founder of the Caribbean American Diaspora newspaper, and Ferris McLean-Edwards, a retired healthcare worker, also affirmed their commitment to the boycott. Some participants, such as Damion Bailey, noted logistical constraints made their participation inevitable.
The People’s Union USA received backing from the National Action Network (NAN), although NAN clarified it is not directly involved in planning the boycott. The organization’s stated mission is to empower individuals in taking charge of their economic future.
DEI programming can be traced back to a 1965 Executive Order by President Lyndon B. Johnson, which mandated non-discriminatory hiring practices. Following today’s boycott, additional actions against specific retailers will commence, targeting Amazon from March 7 to 14, Nestle from March 21 to 28, and Walmart from April 7 to 13.
The nationwide spending boycott led by Jamaicans in the United States serves as a protest against cuts to DEI initiatives. This movement, organized by The People’s Union USA, encourages consumers to support local businesses and resist major retailers. The participation of various community leaders highlights a collective determination to advocate for fair treatment and challenge practices that undermine equity. Future boycotts against other major companies are scheduled, reflecting ongoing efforts to address these critical issues.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
