21/11/2023
This Friday is sometimes called "Black Friday" - the day after Thanksgiving in the US, when companies reduce prices after one holiday and prepare for the next, which is Christmas in many people's calendars. It is characterised by a shopping frenzy in a lot of cities and suburban malls. But for anti-capitalist and anti-consumerist LGBTQIA people, it is also "Buy Nothing Day". In a press statement, the UK network for Buy Nothing Day explains "Buy Nothing Day was started by controversial magazine Adbusters in the early 90's and has since grown into an international event celebrated in more the 50 countries. Its is a simple idea, which challenges consumer culture by asking us to switch off from shopping for a day. The day is celebrated as a holiday by some, a street party by others - anyone can take part provided they spend a day without spending!" The day after Buy Nothing Day or Black Friday is equally important for many LGBTQIA people too. The feminist, African-American and queer bookstore in Chicago, Women and Children First explains that Saturday is Small Business Saturday to kick off the Holiday Season with local, indie businesses! Wikipedia elaborates "Small Business Saturday encourages holiday shoppers to patronize brick and mortar businesses that are small and local." It is an opportunity to support LGBTQIA and independent businesses that are at the heart of the community. In our home city of Bristol, there are dozens of smaller scale businesses that you might like to patronise with your holiday spending money. Indeed, it is a city known for its independent sector and plethora of quality charity shops. LGBTQIA businesses would be particularly grateful for customers' support at the festive season.
