Amazon seeks to de-stabilize union in California, according to a leaked internal memo
The leaked internal memo from May 2021 penetrates through the notoriously private business strategies of one of the world’s most powerful companies and unveils them in an “anti-union” light. Amazon’s position on unions hasn’t exactly been a secret, but the company’s focus on strengthening “relationships with key policymakers and community stakeholders” has made it all the more clear.
After several unionization attempts earlier this year, one being successful in Staten Island, New York, the company has set its sights on neutralizing growing criticism of the company by one of the world’s most powerful unions, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, out of California.
Teamsters has over 1.2 million members across several industries - including warehousing and logistics - and poses a major threat to Amazon’s growth plans. Unions often voiced criticism of Amazon workers’ higher-than-average work-related injuries and significantly challenging working conditions.
Sean O’Brien, Teamsters International president, is under fire from senior union members for agreeing to appear at the upcoming Republican national convention.