Amazon strikes: Why are workers protesting Black Friday – and will it disrupt shoppers?
IndependentDec 01
Amazon US Workers Strike Ahead of Christmas
Above: A San Francisco worker distributes Amazon shipments on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024. Image copyright: David Paul Morris/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Facts
The Teamsters union, which represents thousands of workers at 10 Amazon facilities in the US, on Wednesday announced the largest strike against the organization in US history starting Thursday.
Amazon workers in New York City, Atlanta, San Francisco, and in states including California and Illinois, took industrial action after Teamsters alleged the company refused to talk to those associated with the union.
The Spin
Left narrative
Serious concerns about workplace safety and poor treatment are driving Amazon workers to strike during the holiday season. A Senate report led by Bernie Sanders has highlighted "uniquely dangerous" warehouse conditions, with allegations of manipulated injury data and prioritization of productivity over worker well-being. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters has also called out Amazon for delaying collective bargaining — this is the final resort to protect employees' interests.
Right narrative
Despite criticisms, Amazon has demonstrated a substantial commitment to employee welfare, investing nearly $1B in frontline worker pay raises and comprehensive benefits starting day one. The company is one of the US's best employers, emphasizing career development through extensive upskilling programs. With competitive wages and a $13.5B investment in worker safety since 2020, the corporation strives to be "Earth's best employer."