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Amazon workers across the United States have launched the largest strike against the company in its history, starting Thursday morning (December 19). The Teamsters Union organized the strike after Amazon failed to meet a deadline for contract negotiations. Workers are picketing at key facilities, including those in New York City, Atlanta, San Francisco, the Chicago area, and three locations in Southern California.
The Teamsters represent nearly 10,000 Amazon workers, a fraction of the company's 1.5 million employees. The union is demanding higher wages, better benefits, and safer working conditions. Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien stated, "If your package is delayed during the holidays, you can blame Amazon’s insatiable greed." He emphasized that Amazon's refusal to negotiate has pushed workers to strike.
Amazon, the second-largest corporation on the Fortune 500 list, claims the strike will not impact its operations. The company argues that many of the striking delivery drivers are not its employees but work for third-party partners. However, the Teamsters assert that Amazon controls the drivers' work conditions and should be recognized as their employer.
The strike comes during a critical holiday shopping period, potentially affecting deliveries nationwide. As the situation unfolds, Amazon workers at other facilities are prepared to join the picket lines, escalating the pressure on the e-commerce giant.