30 Amazon warehouse workers stage “Prime Walkout” in Joliet, Illinois
In a letter posted to the CEO of Amazon, Andy Jassy, about 30 employees have stated they are exercising their “right to engage in concerted activities for the purpose of mutual aid and protection”. Citing national labor and occupational safety laws, these employees at the large distribution center in Joliet, Illinois staged a walkout on Tuesday amid Amazon’s Prime Day. The action is advocating for a wage of $25 per hour and a “safer, healthier workplace”.
Amazon Prime fulfillment promises speedy delivery and any disruption can jeopardize that. Warehouse Workers for Justice gathered about 700 signatures from the DC’s workforce that voiced support for the walkout’s demands, although many were intimidated to participate in the walkout.
An Amazon spokesperson downplayed the turnout. However, in an emailed statement, Amazon reminded the public that the company was reinvesting $1 billion in front-line worker wage hikes over the next twelve months.
Amazon’s recent decision to bring employees back to the office five days a week, starting next year, has stirred strong reactions among staff.