Amazon workers at its largest Staten Island warehouse began a protest on Saturday morning, marking an escalation in a labor campaign that started on Thursday. The group of around 100 workers gathered outside the JFK8 facility, set up tents and food stations, and were joined by New York’s attorney general Letitia James.
The protesters are seeking better pay, sick leave, and working conditions, citing Amazon’s priorities for profit over its employees’ well-being. They argue that Amazon is underpaying its workers, with many earning less than $24 an hour, which they claim is not enough to live comfortably in Staten Island.
New York’s attorney general told the workers that “the law is on your side,” emphasizing that Amazon cannot ignore their demands for fair treatment. The protest has raised concerns about how it will impact Amazon’s operations during the holiday rush.
Amazon delivery trucks continued to operate normally, with some drivers showing support for the striking workers by honking their horns. The Staten Island warehouse is a key location for unionizing efforts among Amazon employees in New York City.
The workers have been affiliated with an independent union called the Amazon Labor Union (A.L.U.) since 2022 but recently joined forces with the Teamsters International under a new agreement. This partnership aims to secure better working conditions and benefits for Amazon warehouse workers, including access to $8 million in organizing funds from the Teamsters.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/21/business/amazon-warehouse-staten-island-strike.html