Amazon workers went on strike at seven facilities across the US, led by the Teamsters union in a bid to secure better labor conditions. The strikes, which began on Thursday, were authorized after the union voted to give workers the power to walk out over contract negotiations. Despite Amazon’s claim that it doesn’t expect the labor action to impact its operations, the union says it’s part of a growing effort by workers nationwide.
The Teamsters represent nearly 10,000 workers at 10 Amazon facilities, making up just a small portion of the company’s US warehouse workforce of around 800,000. The strikes involve delivery stations operated by contractors, with locations in Southern California and major cities across the country.
Amazon has been accused of failing to treat its workers fairly, with Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien saying “Amazon is pushing its workers closer to the picket line by failing to show them the respect they have earned.” The union claims that Amazon essentially controls the drivers’ actions, despite denying this and accusing the union of spreading a false narrative.
The strikes come as Amazon has recently increased pay for delivery drivers amid growing labor pressure. However, the company’s refusal to bargain on a contract with the Teamsters has led to this latest round of industrial action.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/amazon-strike-teamsters-delivery-gifts-1ea28e27bc3ddd88d9f0c7c53f798d1d