TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – The phone call today occurred due to a nationwide economic blackout, urging consumers to stop spending 24 hours.
In black English bookstores, shelves are filled with stories that amplify diverse voices. Friday may seem quieter than usual, but the message behind it is something else.
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“Slowing business, I think it’s fine,” said owner Gwendolyn Henderson. “I’m not going to worry about that, and I support our financial position. If it doesn’t swipe your credit card anywhere, then it includes a black English bookstore.”
On Friday, February 28th, the economic blackout is a movement that will pause consumers by spending money.
The boycott is led by People’s Union USA, a grassroots organization targeting corporate and government accountability.
“This is a great opportunity to show that we have economic strength and I really support it,” Henderson said. “In fact, I’ve already started for myself.”
But economists warn that even a single day without speeding can lead to consequences. Dr. Michael Snipes of the University of South Florida said lowering income could encourage difficult decisions.
“If you see big box stores falling revenue, they have to keep their profits up,” Snipes said. “So, if my revenue is falling, the only other option I have is to cut costs. And what is the quickest and easiest way to cut costs? I fire workers.”
Together with the Hillsboro County Black Chamber of Commerce, Josh Monteiro says that big box stores can send messages, but that won’t help Tampa businesses unless they’re spent locally.
“It’s going to hurt small businesses any more. So I don’t think the focus is on those big businesses, but I think credit card companies get that money and don’t spend it on it, so they’re getting cash. A little local mom and a pop shop, a small restaurant,” Monterio said.
