Teamsters Union Joins Writers Guild of America in Support of Amazon Workers’ Strike

EXCLUSIVE: Teamsters Union Supports Writers Guild of America in Show of Solidarity

In a powerful display of unity, the Teamsters Union has been standing in solidarity with the Writers Guild of America (WGA) for the past 75 days. Now, the scribes have returned the favor by joining a picket line at an Amazon warehouse in Santa Clarita, California, to support Amazon drivers and dispatchers in their own dispute.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which represents over 1 million workers in the U.S., has been picketing Amazon warehouses across the country since June 24. Locations in California, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Michigan have all seen Teamsters members fighting against low pay and dangerous working conditions.

The Teamsters Local 396 has been negotiating with Amazon’s Delivery Service Partner and Battle-Tested Strategies since April to recognize and honor the union contract. However, they claim that Amazon has engaged in unfair labor practices, including terminating the entire unit of newly organized workers, in violation of federal labor law.

Throughout the past two months, the Teamsters have shown unwavering support for television and film writers by refusing to cross picket lines. WGA member Chris Hazzard expressed gratitude for the Teamsters’ support, stating, “The WGA specifically has just received so much support from the Teamsters, that our membership was very happy to support them in any way we can. Today that was helping local 396.”

Victor Mineros, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 396 in Los Angeles, emphasized the unity between the two unions, saying, “Since this strike started on June 24, these Amazon workers have remained united in pursuit of fair pay and safe jobs. Despite Amazon’s illegal refusal to recognize their union or engage in bargaining, the community and fellow workers in this industry have consistently shown unwavering support. Millions of Teamster members stand shoulder to shoulder, with firm resolve, supporting their brothers and sisters at Amazon. Together, we are resolute in holding this corporate criminal accountable for its treatment of their workers.”

The show of solidarity between the Teamsters and the WGA is a reminder that unity goes beyond just a good feeling, according to WGA West board member Liz Alper. “Saying that you’re with somebody, it’s taking your time, it’s making yourself uncomfortable, in order to make somebody’s life a little bit better. That’s what the Teamsters have been doing for us. That’s what we did for the Teamsters today,” she said.

Hazzard also highlighted the cross-union support for the WGA fight, noting that actors also participated in a walkout. “For our membership to be able to help one of the other locals with their fight, because even though what the WGA and SAG-AFTRA do is very different, as far as the physical labor that teamsters are doing, at the end of the day, what we want is all kind of the same, everybody just wants fair wages,” he explained.

The fact that the Teamsters picket line was at an Amazon warehouse further emphasized the solidarity between different workers. Hazzard remarked, “It’s pretty telling that delivery drivers are up against the same company that film [and TV] writers are. It doesn’t feel like that should be one entity.”

Alper stressed the importance of shining a spotlight on the Teamsters and other workers, stating, “We’re a very privileged Union, we have a very large platform, we have a very public platform and we’ve been getting the spotlight that a lot of unions in town don’t get. It’s really important that sharing our solidarity also means sharing the spotlight, and making sure that the Teamsters fight against Amazon is as well known as our fight.”

This is the latest union that the WGA has supported, following their recent show of solidarity with hotel workers. Thousands of workers, including cleaners, cooks, and front desk staff, have gone on strike to demand wage increases ahead of the World Cup and Olympics, which will bring increased business to the hospitality sector.

The collaboration between the Teamsters and the WGA serves as a powerful reminder of the strength that can be found in unity and the importance of supporting workers across different industries.

How does the collaboration between the Teamsters and the WGA showcase the importance of unity in advocating for workers’ rights?

Nditionally available to them,” Alper said. “It’s being there, even when it’s not convenient. And that’s what the Teamsters have done for us, and now we’re doing it for them.”

The collaboration between the Teamsters and the WGA highlights the importance of standing together to fight for workers’ rights. Both unions recognize the impact of unfair labor practices and the need to hold corporations accountable for their treatment of employees.

As the Teamsters continue their fight against Amazon, the WGA’s support serves as a symbol of solidarity and strength. By joining the picket line at an Amazon warehouse, the writers show their dedication to supporting workers in their pursuit of fair pay and safe working conditions.

This display of unity is not only powerful, but it also sets an example for other unions and organizations. It sends a clear message that collective action can make a difference in advocating for workers’ rights and holding corporations accountable.

The Teamsters Union and the Writers Guild of America have formed a formidable alliance, demonstrating that their shared goals and values extend beyond their respective industries. The support and solidarity shown between the two unions serve as a reminder that standing together can lead to positive change and better working conditions for all workers.