#USA #labor rights #Amazon Teamsters #Los Angeles, New York #DAX7 Strike

Teamsters Protest Amazon's Work Practices Across Multiple States

In a significant show of unity, Amazon Teamsters from the DAX7 facility in Los Angeles have extended their picket efforts to Amazon's DBK4 location in Queens, New York. This follows a recent unfair labor practice (ULP) strike initiated by DAX7 drivers who are advocating for better wages and safer working conditions. The strike began last month when drivers organized under Teamsters Local 396 to voice their concerns against Amazon's exploitative business practices.

This week, tensions escalated as Amazon allegedly retaliated against the striking drivers by terminating its contract with their Delivery Service Partner (DSP), Next Stop. Randy Korgan, the director of the Teamsters Amazon Division, commented on the situation, stating, “Amazon's callous terminations show how little this company values the hard work that these drivers do every day and agitates workers all over the country to fight.” Korgan emphasized that with the support of the Teamsters, these drivers are equipped to respond to Amazon’s actions.

Sara Venegas, one of the drivers from DAX7, expressed the sentiment shared by many in her position, saying, “Every Amazon driver knows that our DSPs can be cut at any time. That’s why we organized with the Teamsters to fight for real job security at DAX7. Amazon thinks we will shut up and go away, but we aren’t going anywhere. We will fight tooth and nail for justice at this company.” This comment underscores the urgent need for job security and fair treatment in what is perceived as an increasingly hostile work environment.

The ongoing protest follows a similar incident in September where Amazon took action against 100 members of Teamsters Local 804 at the DBK4 facility. Those terminations catalyzed a movement in New York City aimed at passing the Delivery Protection Act, legislation intended to require companies like Amazon to directly employ the workers responsible for delivering packages throughout the five boroughs.

Latrice Johnson, an Amazon Teamster from DBK4, recounted her experience, saying, “Amazon tried to silence us in the dead of night, with zero warning. We know what it’s like for Amazon to try and throw you out on the street.” Her poignant statement reflects not only the anger and frustration felt by Amazon workers but also a growing determination to unite against such practices across the country.

In total, around 10,000 Amazon workers are now organized under the Teamsters across 13 facilities, all demanding that Amazon agree to a union contract that addresses crucial issues like wages, job safety, benefits, and overall job security.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which was founded in 1903 and represents over 1.3 million members across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, stands firmly behind the striking workers. The Teamsters’ mission is to uplift the voices of hardworking individuals, ensuring fair treatment in their respective workplaces. For further updates and to learn more about the Labor Rights movement, you can follow the Teamsters on social media platforms. Join their fight for justice and solidarity within the workforce today!