‘Black Thursday’ Backlash

Black Friday — it’s a widely-practiced holiday tradition where many people flock to stores to buy discounted items for their friends, loved ones, and even themselves. The concept of “getting to give” isn’t bad, but will some stores be placed on Santa’s naughty list this Christmas for opening up during Thanksgiving day?

It began last November when Macy’s, which many people associate with Thanksgiving because of the annual New York City parade, decided to open its doors for Black Friday shoppers at 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving day. Due to its earlier hours, Macy’s ended up reeling in a more significant amount of money than many stores, which now has other businesses turning back their hours into Thanksgiving night as well. However, this phenomenon has caused an uproar among American citizens. According to a poll given by CBS Washington, nearly 87% of the respondents do not like the fact that stores are taking over Thanksgiving. Among the non-supporters is Sacred Heart senior Kristen Siegfried. “I don’t like stores opening on Thanksgiving,” states Siegfried. “It’s not Black Thursday!”

But why is everyone so upset? “It’s too tempting for the crazy bargain shoppers,” says senior Emma Hartell. “So many people are going to leave their families early just to get the best deals.” However, this movement does not just affect the shoppers. “Imagine the workers! It takes away time for their families too,” adds Madie Clements, also a senior.

Many people have taken to social media to promote boycotting the stores that will be participating in “Black Thursday” this holiday season. The creators of the Facebook page “Boycott Black Thursday” urges their 100,000 supporters to “vote with your dollar and support businesses that support their employees and their families” this year. By not shopping on Thanksgiving, they are hoping to discourage stores to open on Thursday in order to give everyone, especially retail employees, a day off to spend with their families.

The Rune has an inside scoop on Santa’s naughty and nice list this season! Who will you be shopping with?

Naughty:
Walmart
Target
Sears
Toys ”R” Us
Best Buy
Macy’s
Big Lots
Shoe Carnival
Kmart
Michael’s
Belk
Kohl’s
JCPenney
Goody’s
Peebles
Ulta
Bon-Ton
RadioShack
Dick’s Sporting Goods

Nice:
DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse
Costco
Nordstrom
Publix
Pier 1 Imports
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores
BJ’s Wholesale Club
Gordmans
Crate and Barrel
T.J.Maxx
Dillard’s
HomeGoods
Barnes & Noble
REI
American Girl
Burlington
GameStop
The Home Depot
Patagonia
Lowe’s Home Improvement
Sur La Table
Bed Bath & Beyond
Petco
Sam’s Club