In an unprecedented move, Amazon warehouse workers in New York have voted to authorize their first-ever strike, setting a December 15 deadline for the retail giant to begin contract negotiations.
The strike authorization comes nearly two years after workers at Amazon's JFK8 warehouse in Staten Island made history by becoming the first Amazon facility in the U.S. to unionize in March 2022. Since then, Amazon has refused to negotiate a union contract, challenging the election results and the National Labor Relations Board's authority.
Now backed by the powerful Teamsters union, thousands of workers are demanding a $30 hourly wage and improved workplace safety measures. The strike would affect both the JFK8 warehouse in Staten Island and another facility in Queens.
"Amazon must commit to come to the table and bargain a Teamsters contract with its workers – or face the consequences of its inaction," declared Teamsters General President Sean O'Brien.
The timing of this labor action is particularly notable, as it coincides with Amazon's peak holiday season. Last year, the company reported $170 billion in fourth-quarter sales.
The strike's impact could extend beyond New York, as Amazon workers nationwide watch the developments closely. The Teamsters have been organizing Amazon employees across multiple states, including Georgia, Illinois, California, and Kentucky.
Amazon has pushed back against the union's claims. Company spokesperson Eileen Hards stated that the Teamsters "have actively threatened, intimidated, and attempted to coerce Amazon employees," allegations that are currently subject to pending unfair labor practice charges.
This standoff represents a pivotal moment in U.S. labor relations, as workers at one of the world's largest employers take unprecedented collective action to secure better working conditions.