Boycott of McDonald's sparks nationwide protest over labor and diversity issues
- A grassroots advocacy group has accused McDonald's of unethical business practices and initiated a boycott.
- The movement arose amid McDonald's rollback of its diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.
- The boycott aims to pressure McDonald's for fair labor practices and corporate accountability.
In the United States, grassroots advocacy group The People’s Union USA has initiated a week-long boycott of McDonald's, accusing the fast-food giant of various unethical practices, including price gouging, unfair labor practices, and tax avoidance. The announcement followed a series of challenges faced by McDonald's, including decreasing sales and significant backlash against recent cutbacks to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The union emphasizes that the movement is about more than just food, asserting a call for corporate accountability and social equity. The impetus for this boycott can be traced back to the rollback of McDonald's commitment to DEI, which the corporation had previously championed. Several major companies, including Walmart and Target, have faced similar scrutiny in the wake of political changes in the U.S. following former President Donald Trump's election, which significantly influenced corporate policies across various sectors. Advocacy groups have started to unify efforts to promote awareness and action regarding these issues, leveraging social media to rally support. This initiative by The People’s Union USA has garnered endorsements from notable public figures, including author Stephen King and actor John Leguizamo, which has amplified its message and reach. Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign associated with the boycott has reportedly raised more than $125,000, illustrating the financial backing and commitment to their cause. The group's leader, John Schwarz, who has his own controversial past, was once imprisoned for offenses related to a café he owned, which adds a layer of complexity to his leadership in this social initiative. Recent public statements from Democratic senators have also highlighted allegations of price gouging by McDonald's, asserting that the company's price increases may exceed inflation rates, contributing to soaring profits at a time when many consumers are struggling financially. By encouraging consumers to refrain from spending at McDonald's through the end of June, the group aims to impact the company's bottom line and influence a change in its operational practices, advocating for a more equitable business model moving forward.