Amazon workers protested Monday at a Minnesota distribution center, asking for better working conditions.
Amazon workers protested outside the facility. They delayed a few trucks briefly and waved signs that said “We are human, not robots.”
“We know Prime Day can be a very important day for Amazon. So we hope that this strike will help executives realize how serious we are about seeking real change that will lift the workers in Amazon’s warehouses,” said striker Safiyo Mohammed in a press release.
“We make a lot for Amazon, but they don’t treat us with respect and dignity that our work deserves.” The organizers didn’t disclose the number of strikers. They said employees protested for around an hour in extreme heat, before the rains arrived, cutting off the protest.
According to Awood Center, the strike was part of an ongoing effort by the community to pressure the company on issues such as job safety, equal opportunity at work, and steps towards solving problems like climate change.
Kamila Harris, United States (US), Democratic presidential candidate, and Bernie Sanders, were among those who supported the strikers via Twitter.
Sanders tweeted, “I stand in solidarity avec the brave Amazon workers engaging in work stoppage contre unconscionable working conditions at their warehouses.”
“It’s not too much to expect that a company owned and controlled by the wealthiest people in the world treat its employees with dignity, respect and respect.” Amazon workers also staged a strike at seven locations in Germany as they demanded better wages. The two-day global Prime Day discount sale was launched by the US online retailer.
Amazon had stated in advance that the strike would have no effect on deliveries to customers.
Amazon has always defended its work conditions, claiming it is a leader in providing benefits and minimum wage for workers.
Last week, the company announced plans to provide job training to approximately one-third its US workforce in order to help them adapt to new technologies.
Amazon is working hard to offer same-day delivery on a wider range of products to its Prime membership, which costs $119 per year. This includes streaming movies and TV shows.
The action took place on the first day of a major shopping event called “Prime”, which began in 2015.
The event is now available in 17 countries and will be highlighted by a prerecorded Taylor Swift video performance and promotional material across a variety of products and services offered by the e-commerce pioneer.
