A nationwide economic boycott is sweeping the nation, with thousands taking part. The movement aims to hold corporations accountable for scaling back diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in response to President Donald Trump’s Executive order. Among those participating is Tonya Horn, who claims her dollars will only be spent on Black-owned businesses and women-owned businesses if needed.
Horn’s journey into activism began several decades ago and has deep roots in her family’s history. Her mom played a pivotal role in instilling empowerment in her as a Black woman. Today, Horn is taking a stand by cutting spending at major corporations.
The boycott is not just about individual action; it’s also about drawing attention to the policies and shifting attitudes. Economic experts say that wide-scale boycotts have a small economic impact but can have a lasting effect if people shift their spending habits over time.
Jonathan Ernest, an assistant professor of economics, notes that while the immediate impact may be limited, these movements can leave a mark in the long run. The boycotts aim to remind corporations and the administration that their policies have consequences and that marginalized voices are not being ignored.
Horn sees the boycott as an opportunity to close Black History Month with a bang and send a message to corporations and the administration: that marginalized voices will not be silenced and that power lies in collective action. As participants continue to fight for their rights, they emphasize that this is only the beginning of a broader movement.
Source: https://spectrumnews1.com/oh/columbus/news/2025/02/28/economic-boycott-blackout-dei