JFK8 Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Authorize Strike, Demand Amazon Negotiate Union Contract

In a pivotal step forward for worker organizing, employees at Amazon’s JFK8 warehouse have voted overwhelmingly to authorize the Amazon Labor Union (ALU-IBT Local 1) to call an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike. If Amazon fails to agree to begin bargaining for a union contract by December 15th, workers are prepared to take decisive action to shut down operations at the company’s largest and most critical fulfillment center. This facility, which handles millions of packages during the holiday peak season, could grind to a halt, disrupting operations nationwide and highlighting the urgent need for Amazon to negotiate in good faith.

After making history in April 2022 as the first union to win certification at an Amazon facility in the United States, the ALU recently entered a new phase of growth and strategy by affiliating with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), forming Local 1 under the Teamsters. This move strengthens the ALU’s resources, training programs, and organizing capacity, creating a powerful network to confront Amazon’s ongoing union-busting tactics. Warehouse workers and delivery drivers at ten facilities, including JFK8, across the country are organizing with the Teamsters.

ALU-IBT Local 1 remains firmly committed to its founding principle: it is a union by the workers, for the workers. Every leader, decision, and initiative comes directly from the rank-and-file members themselves. This worker-led model ensures that the union’s priorities and strategies reflect the needs and voices of the employees it represents.

Additionally, ALU-IBT Local 1 held its first democratic leadership election earlier this year, further solidifying its commitment to worker-led decision-making and accountability. With a newly elected team of rank-and-file leaders at the helm, the union has been working diligently to build a robust internal structure and a support network within JFK8 to empower workers and prepare for this critical moment.

Building Power Inside the Warehouse
ALU-IBT Local 1 has been focusing on engaging and activating its membership, with a strategic emphasis on developing worker leaders inside the warehouse. These leaders have been instrumental in:

  • Organizing department-by-department networks to keep coworkers informed and unified.

  • Providing training on worker rights and strike readiness.

  • Building solidarity and trust among the workforce through regular meetings, outreach, and support.

“We’ve spent the past few months building a real structure and support system inside JFK8,” said Wajdy Bzezi, a shift lead steward and key worker-organizer. “This isn’t just about winning a vote—it’s about empowering all of my coworkers to stand up for their rights and take collective action to demand what we deserve.”

Demanding Justice from Amazon
Since the ALU’s certification in 2022, Amazon has refused to bargain, flagrantly violating federal labor laws and committing Unfair Labor Practices (ULPs). Despite its public claims of valuing employees, Amazon has spent millions on union-busting consultants and legal maneuvers to delay negotiations and suppress organizing efforts. Workers at JFK8 are demanding Amazon recognize their union and negotiate a contract that includes:

  • A living wage with fair pay increases.

  • Safer working conditions to prevent injuries and fatalities.

  • Job security and protection from arbitrary firings.

  • Dignity and respect for all employees.

Amazon has further sought to undermine workers’ rights in their lawsuit by attempting to make the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) unconstitutional and overturn over a century of labor laws in the U.S.

“Amazon’s refusal to negotiate is a direct attack on our rights,” said Connor Spence, President of ALU-IBT Local 1. “If Amazon chooses to ignore us, they’re the ones ruining Christmas for millions of families. We’re not just fighting for a contract; we’re fighting for the future of worker power at Amazon and beyond.”

Nationwide Solidarity and Coordinated Action
The stakes of this potential strike extend far beyond JFK8. Several other Amazon warehouses organizing with the Teamsters across the country have pledged to join this fight, making this a nationally coordinated action. Together, these actions represent a powerful and united stand by Amazon employees demanding justice, dignity, and a voice in their workplace.

How the Community Can Support
The JFK8 workers are calling on the community to stand with them during this critical time. Here are ways to support:

  • Donate to the Solidarity Fund: Help workers sustain their fight by contributing to the strike fund.

  • Show Up on the Picket Line: Join workers at JFK8 to demonstrate solidarity and hold Amazon accountable for their illegal refusal to negotiate a union contract.

  • Spread the Word: Use social media and local networks to raise awareness about the workers’ struggle and the importance of their fight for justice at Amazon.

  • Contact Elected Officials: Urge representatives to publicly support JFK8 workers and pressure Amazon to negotiate in good faith.

  • Sign the Petition: Stand with Amazon workers and demand that Amazon guarantee a safe return to work, free of harassment and retaliatory disciplinary action, to all workers participating in protected collective action.

Next Steps
The ALU-IBT Local 1 is calling on the public, elected officials, and labor allies to stand in solidarity with these courageous workers as they prepare to take bold action.

This December, JFK8 workers will either celebrate Amazon’s recognition of their union and a commitment to good-faith negotiations—or they will lead a historic strike to demand it. If Amazon chooses to let it come to that, the responsibility for the disruption will lie squarely with them.