Amazon workers at two major warehouses in New York City, JFK8 in Staten Island and DBK4 in Queens, are gearing up for a significant strike. The move comes as they protest Amazon’s alleged refusal to recognize their union and negotiate a contract addressing low wages and unsafe working conditions. This industrial action marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle for workers’ rights within the tech giant’s facilities.
Historic Union Momentum JFK8 made headlines in April 2022 when its workers voted to unionize, becoming the first Amazon warehouse in the United States to do so. Organized under the Amazon Labor Union (ALU), these 5,500 warehouse employees are now bolstered by their partnership with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT). Connor Spence, president of the newly formed ALU-IBT Local 1, emphasized their determination, saying:
“We have everything it takes to get a contract. When Amazon tries to bully us, it only strengthens our resolve and our movement.”
Queens Joins the Fight Workers at DBK4, one of Amazon’s largest delivery stations in NYC, have also expressed overwhelming support for strike action. As they prepare to join their Staten Island counterparts, this collective push underscores the growing solidarity among Amazon employees.
The Illinois Connection Meanwhile, workers at DIL7, a manufacturing facility in Illinois, are also preparing to take a stand. Riley Holzworth, a DIL7 worker, explained the stakes:
“Amazon may be one of the wealthiest companies on Earth, but we deserve to hold them accountable.”
Amazon’s Pushback Amazon has faced numerous legal challenges over its treatment of unions. The National Labor Relations Board has certified the JFK8 union, but the company continues to resist negotiations. Workers allege that Amazon is employing delay tactics to stall progress. In response, Amazon has accused unions of coercion and intimidation—claims the unions vehemently deny.
A Broader Safety Issue The strike announcement coincides with a Senate committee report highlighting safety concerns at Amazon facilities, including high injury rates. The report criticizes Amazon’s internal investigations as inadequate and dismissive of systemic problems.
As this labor battle intensifies, the eyes of the nation are on Amazon and its workers. For more information, visit the original report on Engadget.