Resist and Unsubscribe: Portland's Tech Boycott Against Immigration Policies
In Portland, Oregon, some individuals have chosen to boycott tech companies in response to what they perceive as a lack of action against President Trump's immigration policies. The campaign, called "Resist and Unsubscribe," was initiated by Scott Galloway, a podcaster and business commentator, who believes that hitting these companies financially could influence policy changes. The boycott targets companies that work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or have a significant economic impact. The goal is to pressure these companies to take a stand on immigration issues and oppose ICE operations.
The boycott has gained traction, with participants like Brittany Trahan in Portland canceling streaming services and opting for DVDs instead. Others, like Lisa Shannon, have stopped using services like Amazon Prime due to their association with Trump-related content. Brian Seymour II from McDonough, Georgia, has shifted to shopping locally instead of using online platforms. The boycott aims to show that non-participation in a capitalist society can be a powerful form of protest.
While it's too early to gauge the impact of the boycott, it has garnered significant interest, with Scott Galloway's website receiving a high volume of traffic. The White House has not commented on the boycott, attributing increased assaults on immigration officers to anti-ICE rhetoric. The companies listed on Galloway's website have not responded to requests for comment on the boycott. The success of the boycott will depend on sustained consumer participation and the potential reputational damage to the companies involved.
Participants like Trahan, Shannon, Seymour, and others have shared their reasons for joining the boycott, citing personal grievances with specific companies or a desire to see tangible changes in immigration enforcement. They have found alternative ways to spend their time and money, supporting local businesses and exploring new hobbies. The boycott is seen as a way to make a statement and influence corporate behavior in the face of political indifference.
In conclusion, the "Resist and Unsubscribe" campaign represents a growing movement of individuals taking a stand against tech companies' perceived inaction on immigration issues. By boycotting these companies, participants hope to send a message and effect change in corporate policies. The success of the boycott will depend on sustained consumer engagement and the willingness of companies to respond to public pressure.