A Walmart DEI boycott begins on Monday. Here's what Wisconsin shoppers should know
Walmart is latest retailer consumers across the U.S. are boycotting for rolling back DEI initiatives, as a 40-day spending freeze on Target continues with other actions planned throughout the year.
In recent months, major corporations, including retailers like Walmart and Target, have reversed such policies — several of which began rollbacks prior to President Donald Trump returning to office and taking action to eliminate federal DEI programs.
The retail giant announced changes to its DEI policies last year following pressure from a conservative activist, USA TODAY reported in late November.
Though there have been various actions from advocacy groups, The People's Union USA are behind recent week-long boycotts — and also organized the 24-hour economic spending blackout on Feb. 28. The group, led by John Schwarz, has scheduled more for the coming months.
Here's what Wisconsin shoppers should know:
When does the Walmart boycott begin?
The Walmart boycott begins on Monday, April 7. It will run until Monday, April 14.
What is included in the Walmart boycott?
The week-long Walmart boycott includes all of the retail giant's stores and online platforms, according to a post on Schwarz's Instagram. Sam's Club, Walmart's membership-only warehouse, is also included in the consumer spending freeze.
Shoppers are also urged to avoid Walmart's private label brands, including Great Value, Equate and Mainstays.
A full list of what's included in the boycott can be found below.
How many Walmart stores are in Wisconsin?
There are 82 Walmart stores in Wisconsin, its website says. There is also one neighborhood market and four discount stores throughout the state.
How many Sam's Club locations are in Wisconsin?
There are 10 Sam's Club warehouses in Wisconsin, according to Walmart's website.
Will the 40-day Target boycott end during the Walmart boycott?
No. The Target "fast" will still be ongoing after the Walmart boycott ends.
The 40-day protest, organized by Atlanta Pastor Jamal Bryant and other faith leaders, coincides with the duration of Lent. It ends on Thursday, April 17.
What other consumer boycotts are upcoming?
The People's Union USA has more consumer boycotts through July, including a newly announced three-day economic blackout scheduled for Easter weekend. Here's the schedule:
- Walmart: April 7-14 and May 20-26
- Second economic blackout: April 18-20
- General Mills: April 21-28
- Amazon: May 6-12
- Target: June 3-9
- McDonald's: June 24-30
- Independence Day boycott: July 4
Moreover, the Latino Freeze Movement is urging the Latino community to be “selective” in where they shop following DEI policy rollbacks, NIH funding cuts and various immigration actions.
The National Action Network, founded by Rev. Al Sharpton, said in a Feb. 25 news release that it will announce an authorized boycott at the NAN Convention in early April.
USA TODAY reporter Jessica Guynn contributed to this report.