An activism group known as The People’s Union USA has initiated a boycott against McDonald’s, which is scheduled to run from Tuesday, June 24, through Sunday, June 30.
This organization was formed earlier this year with the mission of promoting economic resistance and seeking corporate accountability for the working class. The group has already targeted several large corporations, including Amazon, Walmart, General Mills, and Target.
The primary reason for the boycott stems from McDonald’s decision to scale back its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policies, which has drawn considerable criticism from various activists. According to the Associated Press, the fast-food giant announced it would “retire specific goals for achieving diversity at senior leadership levels.”
Additionally, McDonald’s has ceased programs that encouraged suppliers to develop diversity training, actions which the company attributed to a Supreme Court ruling that outlawed affirmative action in college admissions. This move is also believed to coincide with a broader push against DEI initiatives spurred by actions from the Trump administration.
Activists also cite concerns over low wages paid to employees within the company and the rising prices of its menu items. The People’s Union USA emphasized that this boycott transcends mere consumer choices, framing it as a struggle for power and equity. The group’s social media proclamations elaborated, stating, “This is about more than burgers and fries; this is about power.”
“To create real change, we must unite and impact corporations financially,” an Instagram post from the group asserted. “From June 24–30, we are taking a stand. No McDonald’s. No compromise.”
Their demands include fair taxation, an end to price gouging, equitable treatment, and enhanced corporate accountability. The group believes that by targeting McDonald’s, a major corporation, they can send a powerful message about their grievances.
In response to the boycott, McDonald’s has released a statement affirming its continued commitment to inclusion. The company voiced disappointment regarding the claims made by The People’s Union, labeling them as “misleading” and asserting that they distort the company’s values.
McDonald’s aims to foster open dialogue about community concerns and emphasized that its focus remains on serving customers and local communities. The company also announced the rebranding of its diversity team to the “Global Inclusion Team,” indicating a pivot toward initiatives that support both corporate and franchisee success.
Looking ahead, The People’s Union USA has indicated that it plans to launch additional boycotts against other major companies, including Amazon, Starbucks, and Home Depot in July.
Founder John Schwarz has also called for protesters to boycott Fourth of July celebrations, asserting that there is little to celebrate amidst the rollback of rights. A recent social media post emphasized a commitment to truth, stating, “This is not about being Unamerican. This is about being so American that you refuse to be lied to any longer.”
image source from：nbcchicago
