Black Friday and the Shift Towards Conscious Consumerism

With one of the biggest shopping days approaching, it is crucial to take an ethical standpoint and leap into conscious consumerism. During this time, millions of dollars are being made on Black Friday and choices must be driven by mindful intentions as a consumer.

Systematic racism and capitalism are very much interwoven. The era of consumerism will not diminish but can be shifted towards making a difference. A more inclusive economy consists of buying from Black-owned businesses, supporting local communities, and investing in companies that are partaking in ethical practices, doing the work, and making a conscious choice to change.

Climate change has led many to stray away from the instant serotonin that comes with retail therapy and think twice before contributing to fast fashion. The good news is that companies are innovating now more than ever and creating a customer relationship bonded by strategy and change. Consumers play a pertinent part, and now, the simple act of shopping has shown the underlying political stances people make more than ever. Rather than unconscious capitalistic spending, buying local is an incredibly useful path towards creating systemic change.

In an interview from Vanity Fair, filmmaker Ava DuVernay spoke with political activist Angela Davis on social justice. When asked about the education system, Davis mentioned a critical piece on global capitalism.

“…But I think we have to talk about capitalism. Capitalism has always been racial capitalism. Wherever we see capitalism, we see the influence and the exploitation of racism.” Davis says.

Davis has frequently mentioned that there is no capitalism without racism. In 2020, America has grasped even more so that capitalism drives systemic racism, relying on racial biases. The whole system of capitalism depends on inequality and the pursuit of profit, no matter what it takes. To address the issue is to go back in time and address the exploitation of Black people throughout slavery up til now.

Small everyday choices matter. In a consumerist society, it can be challenging to follow your core ethos. Buying items have been second nature to many and the ugly side of consumerism was swept under the rug. Recognize what companies speak up on injustices, and not just for performance activism. Stray away from buying items labeled as bargain deals and buy only things you truly need this Black Friday-- you will be making an impact in the world if you do.

However it’s not only on the consumer to make a conscious change but also on businesses to stand in solidarity with Black lives. Shopify, Afterpay, and Klarna are just a few businesses to name for example that have highlighted Black businesses to shop from on their platforms by partnering and creating a visible tab on their websites to highlight and encourage shoppers to support Black businesses. Other businesses should follow in stride but also ensure that marketing tactics as such aren’t limited to a web page but also to the policies they lobby for on Capitol Hill.

At e2c, we are working hard to create long-lasting systemic change through civic activism, panels, and education-based strategies. Are you in to create systemic change today by donating $1? Donate via ActBlue today.