Boycotts

A boycott is a voluntary refusal to have dealings with a person, business, organization or similar entity to express disapproval and to cause a change in behavior or action. Boycotts have a long global history as a means of civil protest to affect change.

While there are some in official capacities implying or saying that a boycott is illegal that is only true in very narrow circumstances and does not apply to individuals participating in boycotts.

Boycotts are a more complex form or protest as they require a more coordinated effort in order to succeed as well as mutual aid to help people find alternatives for goods and services that are critical in their lives.

Civil stewards are future inspired and history wise.

What You Can Do

Become more familiar with the history of boycotts in the United States and the conditions necessary for them to be an effective form of civil action.

A Target

Boycotts are directed toward a specific entity that is able to take action and make the change being demanded by participants of the boycott. This requires understanding the source of an issue and an understanding of who has the power to actually take action.

Participants

Boycotts are more complicated and difficult because they require organization and coordinated participation in a larger and sustained manner. Boycotts are an application of pressure, primarily economically, which means one-day activities aren’t effective. Most historically successful boycotts were long-term sustained events which involved mutual aid and other supports that help people participate in the boycott.

A Demand

A successful boycott requires a clear demand for a concrete action that can be taken by the target of the boycott in order for the boycott to conclude. Clear messaging of the purposes of a boycott is a critical component to the exercise.

Readings & Resources

Institutions & Organizations

Boycott Central

Collective repository of upcoming, current and recent boycotts.

Books

Corporate Cancel Culture and Brand Boycotts

The Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Women Who Started It

Freedom Walkers

Brewing a Boycott

How to Boycott

Beyond the Boycott

Right to Ride

Games of Discontent

Boycott