Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar 4/4/22: Amazon Labor Union, Ukraine Strategic Shifts, Russian Economic Outlook, Media Corruption, Chris Smalls Interview, & More!
Apr 4, 2022
Christian Smalls, President of the Amazon Labor Union and a pivotal figure in the first successful Amazon warehouse unionization, discusses the monumental victory of the union and the company's counteractions. He emphasizes the grassroots strategies that helped workers overcome corporate tactics. The conversation also touches on the current situation in Ukraine, Russia's resilient economy amidst sanctions, and the ethics of media coverage. Smalls advocates for community support and solidarity in fighting for workers' rights against corporate interests.
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Amazon Labor Union Victory
- Christian Smalls, fired by Amazon for a COVID-19 safety walkout, led the first successful U.S. Amazon union.
- Amazon's smear campaign against Smalls calling him "not smart or articulate" backfired, fueling the union effort.
ALU's Winning Strategy
- The Amazon Labor Union succeeded by building trust across generational and cultural divides through hyperlocal organizing.
- They intentionally took risks to show workers they shouldn't fear Amazon, demonstrating their rights.
David vs. Goliath
- Christian Smalls' union defied expectations by succeeding with a low budget and traditional organizing.
- The New York Times highlighted the ALU’s focus on traditional tactics, like community-building, as a key to their success.