The campaign urges consumers to spend no money for 24 hours to remind corporations of their economic power. A social media campaign has sparked plans for an “economic blackout” on Friday, one of several boycotts planned by activists intent on sending a message to large corporations at a time when many Americans are struggling to keep up with costs.

Consumers are being urged not to spend any money on Feb. 28 or, if an emergency arises, to shop local. Here's why.