John Schwarz, a self-described “mindfulness and meditation facilitator,” proposed a 24-hour nationwide “economic blackout” of major chains on the last day of the month.

A retail boycott is hitting major US businesses Friday as an online campaign calls for Americans to spend nothing at places such as Walmart, Target, Amazon and McDonald’s.

A social media-driven 24-hour ‘economic blackout’ urged Americans to halt spending in protest against corporate power and political influence. Spearheaded by John Schwarz, founder of The People’s Union USA,

Historically, they have lead to social justice reforms, such as the sugar boycott by British abolitionists in the late 18th century helped raise awareness and put economic pressure on the sugar industry produced by enslaved people.

Who's behind the ‘24-hour Economic Blackout?’ The People's Union USA, which takes credit for initiating the no-spend day, was founded by John Schwarz, a meditation teacher who lives near the Chicago area,