Over 200 Amazon Drivers in New York Join Teamsters Local 804 Union

The Facts -

Amazon Workers in New York Unionize Amid Efforts to Reform Delivery Practices

(NEW YORK) – In a significant move, over 200 drivers at Amazon's DBK1 facility in Woodside, Queens, have successfully unionized with Teamsters Local 804. This collective action, demonstrated by workers delivering their unionization news directly to management, marks the latest victory for the Teamsters who have organized nearly 10,000 Amazon employees across five states.

Randy Korgan, Director of the Teamsters Amazon Division, stated, “Amazon already has some of the worst working conditions in the country, but workers go through hell in order to deliver the holidays to millions of Americans.” He emphasized the growing momentum of workers nationwide joining the Teamsters, highlighting the pivotal role of DBK1's new members in this campaign.

Vincent Perrone, President of Local 804, echoed the sentiment of resilience and determination, remarking, “Amazon Teamsters have shown once again that in spite of their employer’s failed attempts to break them, New York is a union city.” Perrone expressed excitement about the new additions to the union, underscoring New York Teamsters' leadership role in advocating for Amazon workers' rights.

Galvanized by last year's historic strike against Amazon facilities, including the significant actions at the JFK8 and DBK4 locations, DBK1 drivers are now campaigning for enhanced pay and safety measures. Their demands include more feasible delivery routes and package quotas, challenging the current system dominated by Amazon’s Delivery Service Partners (DSPs).

Reflecting on last year’s events, José Huerta, a DBK1 driver, shared his motivation: “Seeing hundreds of New York City Amazon workers strike last year was a wakeup call for us. If we want a better future at Amazon, we have to be willing to fight for it.” Huerta expressed pride in joining the Teamsters, ready to demand the respect and dignity workers deserve from Amazon.

This unionization at DBK1 coincides with ongoing efforts by Teamsters to press for legislative changes. They are advocating for the New York City Council, led by Speaker Adrienne Adams, to hold a hearing on the Delivery Protection Act. This legislation aims to dismantle the DSP system by requiring delivery companies to directly hire their workers, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents over 1.3 million members across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For further details, visit Teamster.org. Follow their updates on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

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