The Teamsters union has launched a historic nationwide strike against Amazon, with thousands of workers participating in the “largest strike” against the trillion-dollar company in American history. The strike comes after the company’s repeated refusal to follow the law and bargain with its employees.
Representing about 10,000 workers at 10 Amazon facilities across the US, the Teamsters union claims that Amazon has ignored their deadline to negotiate new contracts for higher wages, better benefits, and safer work conditions. The strike began on Thursday morning, with primary picket lines set up by local unions outside Amazon Fulfillment Centers.
Amazon officials claim that the Teamsters union is “misleading” the public, stating that they do not represent Amazon employees and drivers. However, the company’s spokesperson, Kelly Nantel, admitted that Amazon has exploited and abused workers for years, leading to widespread frustration among its workforce.
The strike is seen as a major victory for worker rights, with Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien saying, “These greedy executives had every chance to show decency and respect for the people who make their obscene profits possible. Instead, they’ve pushed workers to the limit and now they’re paying the price.”
Amazon has offered competitive pay, immediate health benefits, a 401k match, and career growth opportunities, but its workforce feels that these offers do not justify the company’s treatment of them.
As the strike continues, Amazon officials claim that operations will remain unaffected. However, with thousands of workers participating in the strike, it remains to be seen how long this will last.
Source: https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/teamsters-union-launches-historic-nationwide-strike-against-amazon-paying-price