Local businesses for a Free DC

The way we spend our dollars is powerful. Economic boycotts are a time-tested tool communities can use to hold powerful entities accountable. Just as importantly, we can also redirect our money toward businesses that share our values — including our value of protecting DC Home Rule, and stopping federal attacks on DC communities.

Recruiting support among small businesses was a strategy the original Free DC campaign in the 1960’s used to increase public awareness about the need for Home Rule. It’s a tactic that is still applicable today.

DC business owners, we invite you to become a Local Business for a Free DC. If your business supports Home Rule and opposes federal attacks on our communities, sign the pledge below. Once you do, we’ll deliver a custom decal you can display on your door or window to let everyone know that your businesses supports a Free DC.

DC shoppers, share this campaign with the businesses you love — and look for the Free DC decal when you shop. If you want to join our organizing to recruit businesses, attend our upcoming training on October 21.

Take the Pledge

  • This business stands for justice and dignity. We are committed to racial equity and protecting the rights of Black, Brown, immigrant, LGBTQ+, disabled, houseless, and working-class neighbors, as well as defending reproductive freedom and union rights.

  • This business is committed to protecting our community from harm. We oppose state violence, including deportations and over-policing, and support public efforts including DC’s public schools, public transportation, and housing affordability measures.

  • This business celebrates and strengthens DC. We are committed to uplifting the culture, history, and voices of DC residents, and protecting Home Rule, supporting democratic governance, and working toward DC statehood.

  • This business endorses Free DC’s campaign principles.

  • This business will not cooperate knowingly and directly with the Trump administration beyond what is legally required.

  • This business will deny consent to ICE or any law enforcement agency attempting to enter private areas of this business without a signed judicial warrant.

  • This business will review Know Your Rights for Businesses information provided by Free DC.

  • This business will display the Free DC decal proudly in your store window.

  • This business will remove the decal from your storefront if you fail to uphold all that you have pledged.

If your business agrees to these principles, sign the pledge using the form below.