Jamaicans in the US are participating in a nationwide spending boycott on November 3, 2023, organized by The People’s Union USA. The boycott is in response to cuts in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies by the Trump Administration. Participants are encouraged to abstain from purchasing from major retailers and instead support local businesses, with prominent community leaders expressing their solidarity.
On November 3, 2023, Jamaicans throughout the United States will participate in a nationwide spending boycott organized by The People’s Union USA. This boycott protests the Trump Administration’s cuts to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which aim to ensure equitable treatment for historically marginalized groups. Participants are urged to refrain from making non-essential purchases, particularly at major corporations such as Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and McDonald’s, instead opting to support local businesses.
Dr. Allan Cunningham, a prominent figure in the Jamaican diaspora, expressed his support for the boycott, stating that action is more powerful than words. Similarly, Juliet Mattadeen, a retired real estate broker, voiced her agreement with the boycott’s goals, which she believes are reasonable. Patrick Callum, leader of the New York chapter of G2K, asserted the importance of the boycott in maintaining fairness and equity amidst corporate responses to DEI concerns.
Stafford Grant, president of the Ex-Service Men and Women of Jamaica, highlighted the necessity of standing against actions that threaten minority rights. In Connecticut, Mark Millward, founder of a new diaspora newspaper, and Ferris McLean-Edwards, a retired healthcare worker, both pledged to support the initiative. Retail worker Damion Bailey noted his automatic support, as his paycheck timing coincides with the boycott.
The boycott has received backing from the National Action Network, a civil rights organization led by Rev. Al Sharpton. Although not directly involved in its organization, the network has expressed its supporting stance. The People’s Union USA, self-described as a movement aimed at reclaiming economic and political control, did not comment on the Observer’s inquiry, but details about the boycott are available on its website.
In summary, Jamaicans across the US are joining a nationwide economic boycott to protest cuts to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. The movement is characterized by a commitment to support local businesses and to resist spending at major retailers. Notable community leaders have expressed solidarity with the cause, emphasizing the importance of fighting for minority rights. The, initiative reflects a larger movement towards economic empowerment and social equity.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
