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Hit Them Where It Hurts

Even if you decide that you’re not cut out for street activism or are not in a privileged position to speak out without repercussions from the people and institutions you depend on to make a living, there is still something that everybody can do regardless of class or geographical location: boycott. 


This effectively shows your empathy through how you consume, and make no mistake, without our collective consumption and money, we can severely hamper their means to inflict their agendas onto the world. So before you let apathy and fear clain your voice in the struggle for a more equitable, kind, and solidaristic society, ‘vote with your wallet.’ That is how you hit them where it hurts. The BDS movement (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) has a very comprehensive guide on how you tackle specifically the Israeli-associated companies and conglomerates that enable the slaughter of thousands of innocents. (source: DBS Movement).


And before you ask, yes, it works. Historically, it's been a powerful tool that has enabled change. In recent history, it has proven to be a successful strategy when pushing for divestment in Israel's genocide in Palestine. (source: ethical consumer). It’s hurting BIG companies like Starbucks and McDonald’s (source: The Intercept_), Coca-Cola is affected (source: Bloomberg), and KFC and Burger King are struggling in local markets as an effect of the same boycott (source: The New Arab).  


I’ve slowly ramped up my boycotts over the last year to include companies like Disney, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Amazon, Mcdonald's, and Burger King, and involve making different choices when purchasing chocolate and snacks, washing powder, ice cream, hygiene products, coffee, and streaming services. And no, I’m not done yet, but some products and services are more challenging than others to replace, but I aim to make as many changes as possible. It has been easier than expected and has benefited my health and finances.


Here is a pretty good list for references if you want to make a change without changing much of your behaviors: https://boycott.thewitness.news/browse/1


Consider it the first step in making a difference!





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