In a bold statement of unity, Gather Here, a stitch lounge in Cambridge, will close its doors on Friday, joining a nationwide grassroots effort termed an “economic blackout.” Owner Virginia Johnson emphasised the importance of supporting local businesses since the store’s inception in 2011, encouraging shoppers to be mindful of their purchasing choices. This collective action is spearheaded by The People’s Union USA to address corporate greed and advocate for economic resilience.
Johnson aimed to halt credit card transactions for the day, as 96% of store sales involve fees imposed by credit card companies, impacting their earnings. By doing so, she hopes to inspire others to appreciate the power of collective consumer action. Gather Here isn’t alone; other local businesses, like Lola’s Coffee in Medford, are also supporting this cause by offering discounts to cash-paying customers.
The economic blackout campaign advocates for non-essential purchases to cease from midnight Thursday to midnight Friday, encouraging shoppers to abstain from major retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Essentials can be purchased from small local shops, highlighting the need to rally against corporate dominance in the marketplace.
John Schwarz, founder of The People’s Union USA, sees this protest as crucial in shifting public perception about consumer power. He shared a vision of breaking free from corporate narratives that dictate economic norms and prices. “For one day, we are going to finally turn the tables,” he asserted, seeking to demonstrate that consumer choices can challenge the status quo.
Nevertheless, critics remain sceptical about the effectiveness of a one-day protest. Kevin Thompson from 9i Capital Group remarked on its potential minimal impact yet acknowledged the significance of the movement’s ideas, comparing it to historical acts of civil disobedience like the Montgomery Bus Boycott. If the economic blackout garners momentum, it could blossom into a larger movement advocating for consumer power against corporate exploitation.
Gather Here in Cambridge is closing on Friday in support of a nationwide economic blackout aimed at resisting corporate greed. The campaign, led by The People’s Union USA, urges consumers to avoid non-essential purchases from major retailers while supporting local businesses. Johnson plans to suspend credit card payments to highlight the impact of fees on small retailers. Critics question the movement’s effectiveness, but historical parallels suggest its potential.
Gather Here and other local businesses are participating in an economic blackout to challenge corporate greed and highlight the strength of consumer choices. By halting credit card transactions and encouraging cash payments, they aim to rally consumers around the cause. This grassroots movement seeks to impact economic norms and foster solidarity among Americans struggling with rising living costs.
Original Source: www.boston.com
