The Amazon Labor Union (ALU) made headlines in 2021 as the first group of company workers to organize at a U.S. warehouse. Originally established as a grassroots organization comprising current and former Amazon workers, the ALU gained national attention after winning a landmark union election at the JFK8 facility in Staten Island, New York. Despite initially steering clear of major labor unions, the ALU has faced challenges in negotiating a contract with Amazon, leading to tensions within the group.
Leader Chris Smalls has encountered disagreements with ALU members, prompting a group of former members to file a lawsuit against the union for allegedly breaching its constitution. This legal action sought to compel the ALU to conduct an election for union officers. The struggle to solidify its standing and negotiate with Amazon pushed the ALU to seek support from a larger labor union.
By affiliating with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, one of the largest labor unions in the U.S., the ALU aims to bolster its position and enhance its bargaining power against Amazon. The Teamsters, established in 1903, have been actively working to organize Amazon warehouse and delivery workers. In 2021, the Teamsters created an Amazon division to provide backing and financial support to employees in their unionization endeavors. The affiliation agreement between the ALU and the Teamsters, though tentative, is pending ratification by both parties’ members.
The decision to align with the Teamsters has sparked resistance from the ALU Democratic Reform Caucus, the group that previously sued the ALU. Concerns have been raised regarding the process of holding a membership vote to ratify the affiliation, as the ALU lacks a comprehensive list of employees or members. Despite these obstacles, the ALU is scheduled to conduct an election in July to elect new union officers, with Smalls announcing that he will not seek reelection as president.
The Amazon Labor Union’s decision to affiliate with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters marks a significant development in the landscape of labor activism within Amazon. As the ALU faces internal and external challenges, the support and resources provided by the Teamsters could potentially strengthen its position in negotiating fair contracts and working conditions for Amazon employees. The upcoming ratification vote and election for new union officers will be critical steps in shaping the future direction of the ALU.
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