A group of Amazon warehouse and delivery center workers in New York have authorized strike action, citing the company’s refusal to negotiate a union contract as the reason for their decision. The unions representing Amazon workers at two facilities in New York City cited low wages, dangerous working conditions, and job insecurity as major concerns.
The workers are demanding better pay, safer working conditions, and dignity and respect from management. They claim that Amazon’s lack of negotiation is a direct attack on their rights and could ruin Christmas for millions of families who rely on the company’s services.
With over 700,000 workers, Amazon has become the largest employer of warehouse workers in the nation, making a potential strike impact thousands of workers nationwide. The union representing these workers, Teamsters Local 1, has called on Amazon to bargain in good faith and address their concerns by December 15.
Supporters, including Senator Bernie Sanders, have expressed solidarity with the striking workers. Former labor secretary Robert Reich also criticized Amazon’s refusal to negotiate, stating that the company can afford a fair contract given its $15 billion in profits last quarter.
The strike, if it happens, would be unprecedented and could hit Amazon where it hurts – during its busiest time of year. The union has urged supporters to donate to their solidarity fund, show up on picket lines, spread awareness, contact elected officials, and sign a petition demanding safe return to work for all workers participating in protected collective action.
Source: https://www.commondreams.org/news/amazon-holiday-strike