The Daily A Union Drive at Amazon
Apr 1, 2021
Jennifer Bates, an Amazon worker from Bessemer, Alabama, candidly shares her journey in the fight for unionization against a corporate giant. She discusses the oppressive atmosphere of constant surveillance and strict performance tracking in the warehouse. Bates emphasizes the emotional toll these conditions take on workers, fueling their desire for change. The podcast reveals the grassroots efforts and struggles of her colleagues as they seek fair representation, shedding light on the broader implications for labor movements across the nation.
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Time Off Task
- Amazon tracks "time off task," even bathroom breaks, creating worker anxiety.
- This constant surveillance, though defended by Amazon and some workers, breeds fear and resentment among others.
The Breaking Point
- Jennifer's breaking point came when security wouldn't compensate her break time for a random search.
- This seemingly minor incident fueled her desire for change at Amazon.
Unionization Begins
- Initial union talks began informally amongst a small group of frustrated workers.
- Googling led them to the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), who agreed to help.