In the wake of the 250-person strong strike by pilots working for Amazon’s contractor, ABX Air, Councilmember Kshama Sawant (District 3, Central Seattle) is calling on Amazon to heed the demands of pilots from Atlas Air, Southern Air, and Airborne Air, all represented by Teamsters Local 1224. Pilots will picket today outside of Amazon’s headquarters in Seattle at 410 Terry Ave N., between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., to urge executives to end dangerous and unfair short-staffing issues.
While unable to attend, Councilmember Sawant issued the following statement in support of today’s picket:
“I stand with all the pilots represented by Teamsters Local 1224 who are fighting for the basic workers’ right to negotiate a fair contract. It is unacceptable that Amazon continues to contract with companies that refuse to even sit down at the bargaining table with workers. The only reason Amazon can deliver packages and make massive profits for its wealthy executives and shareholders is because of its workers, including the pilots who work long hours and often perform dangerous duties. The pilots deserve a contract they can vote for that meets their needs.
“Amazon continues to fail to hold the companies it contracts with accountable. Security Industry Specialists (SIS), its contracted security company, has been found guilty of violating several labor laws, and has engaged in union busting activity. Now, Amazon is failing to stand up for the rights of the pilots that ship its goods. Fighting for strong labor unions remains as important as ever for the living standards and workplace rights of all workers. It is especially critical now, with historically high levels of inequality in Seattle and worldwide. By courageously going out on strike and building support in the community, the pilots and their union are showing how working people can fight for a better life. Seattle’s working people and activists should all be in solidarity with them throughout their struggle.”
For more information on today’s action, contact Denise Luu. Cell: (626) 382-6217. Denise.Luu@BerlinRosen.Com
WHAT:
Picket to end dangerous and unfair short-staffing of Amazon-contracted pilots
WHERE:
410 Terry Ave N.
Seattle, WA 98115
WHO:
Pilots represented by Teamsters Local 1224
WHEN:
Wednesday, December 7
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.